International

 I received a disposable camera in the post today, with 25 exposures left, and the following instructions:

1. Take a pic of something that inspires you
2. Pass the camera on to someone you trust
3. If you’re last, mail it back

Read more about: 1 camera, 27 exposures, 27 people and 27 sources of inspiration

Tip of the month:

Depending on the product being tested, consider if it is really necessary to conduct your research in the country of origin.

Using remote tools could be just as cost effective, allow for high levels of audience targeting and project control, and can provide a statistically significant sample as well as invaluable qualitative data.

Read more about International customer experience

Everyone has their childhood fears of which some stay with you in adulthood, mine’s that of earthquakes, so much so that since a young age I’ve feared visiting San Francisco. Haiti on the other hand has always been on my ‘radar’ as a place where slavery is rife, as if that’s not bad enough; Haiti is then hit with a devastating earthquake. The horrific effect of the Haiti earthquake however has woken the world up to the plight of the poorest country in the western hemisphere and the humanitarian efforts to bring this devastated country back from the brink have been in effect worldwide. One of the fastest ways donations have been received towards the relief efforts, has been through mobile phones – simply by sending a text from our mobiles to a specific number. Read more about: Mobile technology: speeds up and increases response

I am finally on the last leg of my usability tour of Asia having reached Japan. Japan is an amazing country with great people but I have really struggled with going into shops, ordering food and generally moving around the place as everything is written in Japanese (not surprisingly as I am in Japan!) Read more about: Global icons and symbols

Well the Shanghai part of my tour of Asia is now over. It all went to plan and we had some great feedback from participants. For me, without question, one of the major things I can pull out is the absolute necessity in understanding how users in different countries search online and what search engines they use. Basic stuff really, but if your site is not tagged appropriately and for the correct search engines, then it will not be found. Read more about: Brand marketing overseas

After numerous weeks of meticulous planning and attention to detail, I am the latest Foviance consultant to begin a user experience expedition to Asia. First stop on my whistlestop tour is Shanghai. Read more about: International thrill seeker experience