Presenter:         

Carol J. Smith; Customer Insight Manager, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company; USA
Thyra Rauch; User Experience Lead, IBM; USA
Title: Ethnography in Odd Places
Day/Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Time: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Location:  Fairchild
Session Type: 60 Minute Presentation
Description: Conducting good research always requires careful planning and an ability to adapt quickly to changing situations. However, when your research is being conducted in less-than-perfect conditions, much more planning needs to occur. The presenters will share personal experiences of conducting research in odd places and tips for dealing with the challenges that can crop up.
Audience: General
Track:  Research
Biography: Carol J. Smith has conducted ethnographic studies in schools, homes, retail stores, offices, coal mines, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, and at race tracks. She has worked in a variety of industries, both government and corporate. Carol J. Smith is a confident researcher and enjoys the opportunity to understand people and their needs.  Carol J. Smith has a Master's degree in Human-Computer Interaction and is an international leader within the UXPA. Carol J. Smith has taught courses on UX subjects at the college level and has UX management experience. Carol J. Smith is a frequent presenter at UXPA conferences, UXPA chapter events and other technical events.
Key Words: ethnography, interviews, observations, user research