18F

18F - Stakeholder And User Interviews

Stakeholder and user interviews are semi-structured conversations. Talk to people with direct knowledge of your project. Unlike surveys, interviews allow follow-up questions. Uncover unexpected insights. Learn the reasoning behind preferences. This 60-minute exercise covers interview planning, question design, listening, and synthesis. Balance structure (key topics) with flexibility (following threads). Cover stakeholder interviews (organizational context, constraints, success) and user interviews (needs, behaviors, pain points). Practice probing and note-taking. Capture what people say and what they mean.

Duration
1 hour
Group Size
2-3
Category
18F
Difficulty
Easy
Energy
Medium

Objectives

Build consensus on the problem and research goals.

Outcomes

Interview insights from stakeholders and users. Rich qualitative data. A foundation for decisions.

Step-by-Step Instructions


  1. Create an interview guide with topics and questions.

  2. Conduct one-on-one or two-on-one interviews.

  3. Follow the participant's conversation. Use the guide to stay on track.

  4. Ask "why" and "how" questions.

  5. Optional: Observe stakeholders using competing products.

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Facilitator Tips

Check your recording equipment beforehand. It's easy to forget! Some interviewees clam up when recorded, so be ready to pivot to notes only.

Additional Resources:

  • Interview checklist

  • Usability test guide template

  • Tips for capturing data from user interviews

  • Blog posts on building empathy with stakeholder interviews


Government Considerations: "No PRA implications.

Pre-Work

For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

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Materials Required


  • Interview guides

  • Recording equipment

  • Consent forms

  • Note-taking materials

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Resources & Templates

  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

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