Research prioritisation matrix

An approach to help you decide which action to take based on problem clarity and risk.

The research prioritisation matrix functions as a guide, aligning itself with the ethos of user-centric design. It operates on the pillars of problem clarity and risk profiles, providing a lens through which you can view and prioritise your user research activities.

Resource guidelines

In any project, it's crucial to adapt to the specific context at hand. The following provides a general guide on how to formulate/use this resource.

1. Ship-it and measure it (top-left quadrant)
• Well-defined hypotheses and supporting data have been established, including facts from prior research and recent studies on trends, user behaviour, and funnel analysis, pertaining to customer issues. The likelihood of misinterpretation risks is low, given the familiarity with the known problem and its expected nature. This scenario commonly arises when a specific solution to the problems is developed and ready for testing or implementation.
2. Design heavy (top-right quadrant)
• A solid hypothesis and supporting data are available, incorporating facts from prior research and recent studies on trends, user behaviour, and funnel analysis, concerning customers and their problems. In this context, the risks of failing to develop an appropriate solution to address the problem are significant and could lead to substantial drawbacks for the company.
3. Research light (bottom-left quadrant)
• There is a lack of data and knowledge, hindering the formation of coherent hypotheses about the situation. In this quadrant, research questions are often unclear, but the associated risks are not as pronounced as in the "Research Heavy" quadrant. Due to the low risks, the imperative for precision is reduced in this scenario.
4. Research heavy (bottom-right quadrant)
• You and your stakeholders face a lack of data and knowledge, making it challenging to form a coherent hypothesis about the situation. In this scenario, the risks of not developing the appropriate solution to address the problem are crucial and could lead to significant drawbacks for the company. There is a danger that hastily implemented solutions may risk solving the wrong problem or, in some cases, not addressing any problem at all.