Research Techniques

1. Using libraries, search methods (indexes, catalogues)

Advantages: There might be facts and more info in books.
Disadvantages: May be longer and harder.

2. Using the internet, search methods (search engines)

Advantages: Much more quicker than reading/easy access.
Disadvantages: Not verified/can be wrong info.

3. Photocopying and highlighting key quotes and images

Advantages: Its a fast way of getting direct quotes.
Disadvantages: It might confuse you.

4. Making notes

Advantages: Its your own info so it cant be wrong info.
Disadvantages: It will take longer to write it down.

5. Interviews (written, recorded)

Advantages: It will be live info.
Disadvantages: May take long to organize.

6. Observations

Advantages: You can see whats happening.
Disadvantages: It might change the behavior of the person when your watching them.

7. Questionnaires

Advantages: It will make the person who is doing it more comfortable that there info is private.
Disadvantages: Answers can be wrong because the people might be unreliable.

8. Surveys

Advantages: You do not have to get people to fill it in.

Disadvantages: Answers can be wrong because the people might be unreliable.

9. Focus groups

Advantages: It gives you a realistic conversation about peoples opinions on your product.
Disadvantages: Its hard to make notes and get precise information from it.

10. Meetings

Advantages: You can get all the info you need from the people who are present.
Disadvantages: You may need another meeting to see if things went well.