User Research

A user research toolkit designed to support staff across the University in planning, conducting, and applying user research in digital projects and services

About this toolkit

The Oxford user research toolkit is designed to support staff across the University in planning, conducting, and applying user research in digital projects and services.
It brings together practical guidance, templates, and resources that align with the University’s values of excellence, inclusivity, and integrity.
The toolkit draws on best practice from Oxford’s own digital teams as well as trusted sector frameworks such as those developed by the Government Digital Service (GDS), Jisc, and NCVO.

1. Getting started

Introduces user research, its purpose, and how it fits into Oxford’s digital ecosystem.

What is user research? Understanding how user research fits into digital service design at Oxford. Why user research matters Building better, more inclusive services through evidence, not assumption. UX toolkit starter pack Essential resources, checklists, and examples for new practitioners. Tools and templates Ready-to-use artefacts to help you plan, run, and report your research.

2. Plan and prepare

Helps researchers set up their work ethically and strategically.

Planning and scoping research How to frame the problem, define scope, and gain stakeholder alignment. Setting clear research goals How to focus your study and link findings to decisions. Governance and data management Working within Oxford’s frameworks for data protection, storage, and ethical approval. Ethics in user research Ensuring respect, consent, and integrity in every interaction.

3. Understand your users

Focuses on methods for building insight and empathy.

How well do you know your users? Practical ways to build empathy and understanding across your user base. Qualitative vs quantitative: understanding the difference Choosing the right evidence for the questions you’re asking. Choosing the right research method Match your methods to your goals, users, and time constraints. Recruiting participants Guidance on finding and involving staff and students responsibly and effectively. Accessibility and inclusion in research Making participation equitable and designing for diverse needs.

4. Run your research

Practical guidance on carrying out studies effectively.

Designing and running effective surveys Tips for creating surveys that generate useful, reliable insights. User interviewing essentials (for Business Analysts and beyond) Getting richer insights through structured conversations. Researching experiences with AI and data-driven systems Understanding how people interact with algorithmic tools and emerging technologies.

5. Analyse and share

Turning findings into action and communicating results.

Analysing and sharing your findings From data to decisions: synthesising insights and communicating outcomes clearly.

 

Credits

This toolkit has been developed for the University of Oxford to support the growth of good user research practice across digital services.
It draws inspiration and structure from the following key sources:

See also...