Troublesome Participants in User Trials - The Affirmative Individual

In the realm of user research and testing, a unique character known as the "Yes" person often emerges. This individual is identified by their tendency to provide non-constructive feedback, often due to a natural aversion to conflict, being a pleaser, or being too nice.

The origin of this characterisation in user research and testing is not directly traceable, but it can be found in specialized literature on user research methods or the history of user testing. One such characterisation can be found in the image sourced from Intermediae, which serves as the backdrop for our discussion.

Encountering a "Yes" person during testing can present challenges. For instance, when they blame themselves for a problem during a test, it's important to politely challenge them. A statement like, "Or maybe the instructions weren't clear and it wasn't your fault?" can be effective in helping them reconsider the situation.

Seeking the "Yes" person's opinion on what could have made the task easier for them is also valuable. Asking about potential unclear instructions can help clarify the situation and improve the user experience in future tests.

In some cases, a user may become a "Yes" person when they've had enough of a research process that goes on for too long. It's crucial to ensure that user research processes are efficient and respectful of the participants' time.

Reassuring the "Yes" person that their input matters can help build trust during user research. This reassurance can encourage them to provide more constructive feedback in the future, benefiting both the research and the product being tested.

Two more images, sourced from Nicole Lee and Digital Mom Blog respectively, provide visual representations of the "Yes" person in user research and testing. The fourth image, from From Pure Chaos to Perfect Peace, serves as a reminder that understanding and addressing the characteristics of the "Yes" person is key to conducting effective user research and testing.

In conclusion, the "Yes" person is a valuable participant in user research and testing, despite their non-constructive feedback. By understanding their characteristics and addressing their concerns, we can improve the user experience and create better products.