Guidelines for Conducting International User Experience Research While Abroad
Preparing for Successful International UX Research Trips
Travelling for UX research presents unique challenges that go beyond holiday travel, but with careful planning and preparation, these trips can be both productive and safe. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the complexities of international UX research trips.
Insurance
Obtaining comprehensive travel and medical insurance tailored to international business trips is crucial. Services like International SOS provide emergency support and medical assistance globally, allowing direct payment to providers and claims handling, which is critical during field research trips.
Research Preparation
Partnering with experienced global UX research agencies like Loop UX can ensure a smooth operational flow and cultural precision, key for multi-country or culturally diverse studies. These agencies manage participant recruitment, local moderators, translators, incentives, scheduling, and reporting.
Cultural Awareness
Researching local customs and etiquette is essential to avoid misunderstandings. This includes understanding and respecting local practices in communication, possibly hiring local moderators or translators familiar with nuances. Downloadable local aids such as language support apps and local transit guides can also help.
Communication
Equip yourself with tools and apps that aid navigation and communication. Familiarize yourself with essential apps like Google Maps or local alternatives for navigation, as well as safe rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft, Bolt) that provide driver details and location sharing for safer transportation.
Transportation
Learning about local public transportation routes, schedules, payment methods, and security tips before travel is essential. Avoid travelling alone at night, prefer well-lit routes, and use emergency location sharing apps while commuting to enhance safety.
Safety
Carrying important documents securely using passport wallets that protect against loss or damage is important. Keep essential contacts accessible, understand emergency procedures, and travel with safety in mind, sticking to busier areas and having local emergency numbers handy.
Additional Tips
- Be cautious when meeting strangers while travelling and avoid situations that may be unsafe or unfamiliar.
- International travel for UX research may involve visits to Africa, Asia, South America, Europe, or North America.
- Keep small change on you to make transactions smoother and easier for both you and the people around you.
- Company travel insurance can cover losses due to theft or accidents, such as a lost wallet or a sprained ankle.
- Paying attention to the behaviour of others can provide valuable information about local customs and potential dangers.
- The use of smartphones may be restricted on certain forms of public transportation, so it's important to be aware of the rules.
- Talking to locals, such as expats, hotel staff, clients, colleagues, etc., can provide valuable information and tips for making the most of a trip and avoiding food poisoning.
In summary, thorough insurance coverage, partnering with expert UX research firms, understanding and respecting local cultures, ensuring strong communication and navigation plans, optimising transportation safety, and securing your personal documents are all crucial steps for successful and safe international UX research trips.
Conducting UX research in different lifestyles and travel settings necessitates a thorough understanding of the local culture for a productive and safe journey. Remember to respect local customs and etiquette, especially in communication and transportation, and consider hiring local moderators or translators for a smoother study.
Considering the variety of destinations for international UX research, such as Africa, Asia, South America, Europe, or North America, it's essential to research the specific travel and insurance regulations, transportation routes, and safety guidelines unique to each location.
