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Criterion
Affinity Diagramming
UX Research
Affinity Diagramming
Empathy Mapping
UX Research
Empathy Mapping
Paper illustration of a participant using a prototype while an observer takes notes beside a highlighted usability issue.
UX Research
Usability Testing
Paper illustration for Risk Storming.
Architecture
Risk Storming
Purposedifferent
When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer.When a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing.When a product is built but people get stuck on tasks, usability testing shows the friction at concrete points. Observed use instead of self-report makes visible where orientation, understanding, or interaction breaks down.Helps clarify architecture context, options, and consequences in concrete terms. It organizes technical context, alternatives, and consequences. The result is captured as an Annotated Diagram, a Prioritized Risk List, and an Action Backlog.
Complexitydifferent
LowLowMediumLow
Timedifferent
45–90 min30–60 min1-2 h je Session60-90 min
Participantsdifferent
3-104-8Based on research question4-12
Formatdifferent
WorkshopWorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop
Outputdifferent
Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areasEmpathy Map, Assumptions List, Research GapsUsability Issues, Severity List, RecommendationsAnnotated Diagram, Prioritized Risk List, Action Backlog
Tagsno overlap
SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause
SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop
ValidationUXPrototype
RiskArchitectureWorkshopValidation
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