We have decided to use a qualitative method of data collection as we feel that this is the best way for us to gather the rich data we require to support the development of our platform.
So we decided to organise a focus group of up to 10 students. The idea is to be able to steer the conversation with a set of questions, but also to allow free discussion and conversation surrounding the topics to ensue. This way, the participants are able to feel relaxed and open about their opinion, and therefore, provide us with honest data.
Equally, it only seems appropriate that as our platform is based on the concept of community and groups, that our research method should mirror this environment.
After researching the focus group method and discussing within our team we decided to recruit 10 University of Southampton students as this provided us with ease as we already have an existing community, but also research suggests that this is a core audience of similar existing technologies.
We designed the following structured open-ended questions to outline toe focus group directives:
1) Would you use an online video streaming sharing service?
2) Would you prefer an app or website?
3) How often do you think you would use it?
4) How useful/enjoyable/important is this type of social network idea to you?
5) What would attract you to use this type of product?
6) Do you already use anything similar?
7) Do you feel this type of service is lacking in the current online community environment?
8) Why would you use this service?
9) If you have any, what are your reservations against using this service?
10) What are your top three concerns?
We feel that these questions allow us to understand the core motivations and concerns our target audience has and therefore tailor our platform to fit.
References:
Alexa.com. (2018). Rabb.it Traffic, Demographics and Competitors – Alexa. [online] Available at: https://www.alexa.com/siteinfo/rabb.it [Accessed 29 Apr. 2018].
Kitzinger, J., 1995. Qualitative research. Introducing focus groups. BMJ: British medical journal, 311(7000), p.299.
– Alex
