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Although we are a small firm, Dray & Associates, Inc. is one of the best-known names in user-centered design (UCD) consulting and user experience (UX) research worldwide. We provide a full spectrum of services, including:
- Ethnographic and contextual user studies, domestically and internationally
- Field and laboratory usability evaluations
- Expert interface evaluation and design consultation
- Training in user-centered design methods
We are particularly known for field research of many types, from ethnographic user research, to contextual inquiry, to naturalistic usability evaluation under conditions of real usage. Depending on the project, our contributions almost always include at least several of the following:
- Identification of unmet needs and new product and feature opportunities
- Recommendations to improve product positioning and targeting through
- Clarification of value propositions that are meaningful and relevant to actual user experience
- Segmentation and persona development to improve understanding of the typology of users.
- Identifying contextual constraints to which the product must be adapted
- Identification of features, functionality, and interaction design characteristics that will increase engagement with the product or system and will influence perceived value for the user
We go beyond critiquing existing designs. Our collaborative approach to working with our clients’ product planning and design teams ensures that our studies provide constructive guidance, ranging from the product concept, positioning, and perceived value, to interaction design and usability, depending on the need. We also help our clients identify opportunities to innovate.
We have taught user research methods to professionals around the world and published many articles and book chapters. Our capabilities are illustrated by the fact that we are among the most experienced consultants in international UCD, including both field studies and lab usability studies, and have personally worked in 24 countries. However, we bring our resourcefulness and depth of experience to smaller projects as well.
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