Recommended Free Tools
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
To talk effectively with users, decide what you need to learn, invite people with relevant experience, and ask open questions about what they actually did. Use a discussion guide to keep the conversation on track, not to dictate every line. Listen closely, follow useful details, and close by explaining what happens to the information they shared.
When user interviews are useful
Use an interview when you need to understand people’s circumstances, needs, decisions, or experience using a service. A conversation can reveal context that a click metric or survey response may not explain. GOV.UK describes in-depth interviews as a way to learn about user types, circumstances, service use, and needs: GOV.UK Service Manual: Using in-depth interviews.
Choose the method based on the question. An interview is suited to exploring what happened and why; moderated usability testing is a better fit when you also need to observe someone trying a prototype or service. You can combine them when the study needs both discussion and observed behavior. Interviews are usually one-to-one, though GOV.UK notes that pairs or small groups can make sense when people use a service together. Its planning guidance gives a general duration range of 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on complexity and question count; treat that as a planning range, not a required session length.
Plan around what you need to learn
Turn assumptions into research questions
Agree on the objective before writing prompts. Identify what the team believes, what evidence would help answer the question, and what remains unknown. Convert assumptions into questions that a participant can answer from experience. Discovery questions may begin broadly and evolve as you learn, but keep each session focused on evidence relevant to the objective.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
For example, instead of asking whether people would like a new appointment feature, investigate how they currently arrange an appointment, what steps they take, and where they encounter difficulty. That keeps the interview grounded in behavior rather than predictions.
Recruit people with relevant experience
Invite people who currently use the service or are likely to use it, and consider variety within the group so you do not hear only from one narrow type of user. Choose participants according to the research question: the people who recently completed a process may be more useful for understanding that process than people with no relevant experience.
Decide how participants will be contacted and what they need to know before agreeing. Follow your organization’s current consent, privacy, accessibility, and data-handling policies. Make participation accessible where possible, including the session format, location, timing, and any materials or adjustments a participant may need.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Choose the format and session roles
Pick a format that suits the subject and participant: in person or remote, with a quiet and accessible setting. Decide in advance whether you will record, who will take notes, and whether observers will attend. Explain recording and observation to participants and obtain consent as required by your organization’s policy. If an observer is present, clarify their role and avoid letting them interrupt or turn the session into a group interrogation.
Build a flexible discussion guide
A discussion guide helps you cover the important topics consistently while leaving room to follow a participant’s meaning. Nielsen Norman Group distinguishes an interview guide from a rigid script: it can support follow-up when a participant makes a significant statement. Prepare a small set of core questions, optional probes, and any activity or material you need; you do not have to ask every question in the same order.
Suggested guide structure
- Welcome and explain the session. Introduce yourself, describe the purpose in plain language, explain the format and approximate length, and invite questions.
- Cover consent and logistics. Explain note-taking, recording, observers, and how information will be handled. Confirm consent in the way your organization requires.
- Start with context. Ask a broad, easy opener about the participant’s circumstances or the relevant task.
- Explore the experience. Ask about a specific recent instance, the steps taken, choices made, other people involved, and any difficulty or workaround.
- Probe and clarify. Use optional follow-ups to understand what the participant meant or to explore a relevant unexpected detail.
- Close respectfully. Invite anything they would like to add, explain what happens next, and thank them.
Write neutral, open prompts
Prompts should invite a story rather than imply a preferred answer. Useful patterns include:
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- “How do you usually…?”
- “What are the different ways you…?”
- “Can you tell me about the last time you…?”
- “What happened next?”
- “You mentioned [the participant’s words]. When did that happen?”
- “Can you tell me more about…?”
- “In what way…?”
Ask about a concrete event where possible: what the person did, what they were trying to accomplish, what shaped their choices, and what happened afterward. GOV.UK advises interviewers to “focus on stories and real examples – avoid generalities and talking about how things ‘should’ happen.”
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Avoid wording that suggests the answer you expect. “You found the form confusing, didn’t you?” leads the participant toward agreement. A more neutral prompt is “What was it like to complete the form?” Questions about hypothetical future behavior can be less informative than asking for actual examples, so use them only when they serve a clear purpose.
Pilot the guide
Try the questions with a colleague before the first participant session. Check whether the prompts are understandable, neutral, and likely to produce the evidence you need. Revise wording that sounds like jargon, combines several questions, or assumes an experience the participant may not have had.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
How to conduct the conversation
Settle in, then let the participant lead the detail
Begin with a simple, broad question to establish context and rapport. Explain that there are no right or wrong answers and that you are interested in the participant’s experience, not testing them. Give them time to think; do not rush to fill every pause.
Use the guide as a route map. The conversation may move out of order, and an important point may deserve a follow-up before you return to the next planned topic. GOV.UK advises interviewers not to stick rigidly to the guide and to be prepared to explore new and interesting issues that arise.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesListen more than you speak
Pay attention to the participant’s words, sequence of events, hesitations, and examples. Avoid multitasking or composing your next question while they are speaking. If something is unclear, ask a short follow-up instead of guessing what they meant.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Useful probes include “What happened then?”, “What made you choose that?”, and “Can you give me an example?” Keep probes neutral; the purpose is to understand the participant’s account, not to steer it toward a conclusion.
Keep the session respectful and focused
Let participants finish their thoughts. If the conversation moves away from the study, acknowledge what they said and gently return to the topic with a relevant question. If an unexpected issue is connected to the research objective, explore it rather than cutting it off just because it was not on the guide.
When observers attend, agree beforehand on how they will submit questions or notes. The interviewer should remain the main point of contact so the participant is not distracted by several people speaking at once.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallClose the interview and handle the information
Before ending, check whether you have misunderstood any important point and invite the participant to add something you did not ask about. Explain what happens next in terms you can support, thank them for their time, and end without implying that a particular product change or outcome is guaranteed.
Store recordings, notes, and other personal information securely according to your organization’s current policy. Limit access to people who need it for the study, and follow the applicable retention and deletion requirements. GOV.UK’s interview guidance covers planning through data storage; local privacy and consent requirements should guide implementation.
Common interview mistakes to avoid
- Leading the participant: A question that embeds a judgment or expected answer can distort what you learn. Rephrase it neutrally.
- Reading every prompt verbatim: A rigid script can interrupt a useful story. Use the guide to maintain coverage while following relevant details.
- Talking too much: Long explanations and stacked questions leave less room for the participant’s account. Ask one clear question, then listen.
- Failing to probe: A brief answer may conceal important context. Ask for an example or what happened next without suggesting an interpretation.
- Redirecting abruptly: Acknowledge the participant’s point, then connect your next question to the study topic.
- Multitasking: Divided attention makes it easier to miss useful detail. Arrange note-taking and recording in advance so you can listen.
- Letting observers take over: Multiple interviewers asking questions can unsettle participants. Agree on roles and keep one interviewer responsible for the conversation.
Further reading
Steve Portigal’s Interviewing Users: How to Uncover Compelling Insights, second edition, is a book-length resource on planning and conducting user interviews, including material on bias, remote research, and logistics.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →
