Back to library
Direct Observation
Diary studies
Participants document their daily activities, experiences, behaviors, or reflections over a period of time using a self-directed method such as a written diary or log, a diary app, or creative prompts and tools (e.g. camera, collage materials). The team later reviews these self-recorded materials to understand the participants' context, behaviors, and perspectives.
When This Method Fits
Typical duration
Weeks – Months
Typical cost
Low – Medium
Fidelity level
N/A
Stage
Discovery
Hypothesis type
Exploratory
Goal type
Find product-market fit, Deepen product-market fit, Maximize societal impact, Improve operational efficiency
Randomization
N/A
Study design
Single-case / repeated-measures design
Minimum units needed
5
1Best Fit When
Best when you need to understand real behavior and context over time, in participants' own environment, rather than a single snapshot moment.