Contextual inquiry is a mix of [[User interviews]] and [[Direct observation]], used to gather information about the context of use. This often starts by asking a person a set of standard questions, then observing, and asking follow-up questions ([[Ask open-ended questions]]) based on observations to understand the why behind it. > “Contextual inquiry is the deepest, most valuable way to learn about your user and their environment. [[Laura Klein]]’s book, *Build Better Products*, says using this method will give you the most in-depth information about your user. That’s because in a contextual inquiry, you’re observing your user in context — in other words, in the environment your customer will be in when they’re using your product. So if a teacher will be using your product in a classroom, you need to sit in that classroom while they’re teaching to better understand the dynamic of their environment.” (Zeitspace Inc)[^Zeitspace] The user’s environment is key for this kind of research, and one’s environment has a big impact on recall ([[Contextual recall]]). [^Zeitspace]: Zeitspace Inc. “Product Validation - How to Ensure You’re Solving a Problem People Care about and Will Pay For.” *Zeitspace*, [www.zeitspace.com/product_validation](http://www.zeitspace.com/product_validation). Accessed 20 May 2020.