As we begin 2023, the education industry is in a very different place than where we were three years ago. With nearly all schools returning to in-person instruction, the reliance on technology solutions as the sole provider of learning is not as prevalent. That means EdTech product users are really scrutinizing what they are willing to take a chance on. They’re not going to simply use whatever is available. Instead, they will be more discerning about the products they adopt — and those they remain loyal to.
A co-creation session is a powerful tool to unleash a wide range of new ideas for your EdTech product. Instead of waiting for user testing or other types of validation, you can generate ideas alongside your users. Co-creation is a beneficial exercise in upfront discovery as a method to gather early input from users. But it can also be used in later stages to either extend your product roadmap or uncover solutions when you have questions or features you want to update.
The discovery phase sets the stage for the successful launch of your EdTech product. Our latest resource guides you through the process and the tools to maximize this first step in the UX process. The result? Stronger alignment among your team and a better experience for your users.
Regular input from users is critical to the ongoing success of your EdTech product. After all, your product is designed to meet the needs of your users. However, relying too heavily on a single group of users for feedback increases the likelihood that they will fall victim to user testing fatigue. Just as the name implies, user testing fatigue describes a condition that affects people asked to give feedback over and over. Symptoms include disengagement in the feedback process and a growing apathy to providing responses.
Both project-based and long-term UX contracts have a place in the EdTech space. It’s not an either/or scenario. But each option for engaging an external UX partner comes with a unique set of considerations. The scale and scope of your project will play a significant role in your decision about the best approach. Regardless of which option you choose, there are a few things to keep in mind. At Openfield, we’ve worked with product owners in both contractual capacities and have learned what makes each one successful.
