Ads Here

Saturday, October 6, 2012

How to Talk to Users [for analyst members of a JAD team]


      Encourage users to speak up. Don't assume they understand that they carry equal authority on the team.
      Ask probing questions about how users do their work, even about points that seem obvious. Ask why they so something as well as "what" and "how."
      Do state the obvious (once, at least). Don't assume that something is "common knowledge."
      Ask for clarification. Don't assume you are the only one confused. If users start talking office-lingo, bring them gently back down to Earth.
      Restate the user's points in your own words to make sure you understand each other.
      Avoid technical explanations and computer jargon. if you must use technical terminology, provide a list of terms and definitions.
      Mention problems that you see when you see them. Don't assume that users are not mentioning something because it's okay.
      Be clear about your schedule for implementing features. Provide frequent opportunities to reevaluate and discuss the "to do " list.
      Make a distinction between features which will not be implemented because they are technically impossible and those for which there simply isn't time. Be gentle when dealing with ideas which are impractical.
      Be open to ideas and maintain a non-judgmental stance.

 

No comments:

Post a Comment