What is a focus group?
A focus group is a guided discussion where a moderator leads an interactive group of representative users through a series of questions and activities focused on specific product or topic.
When should it be used?
Focus groups are typically performed early in the product or website planning process to inform requirements definition and design. Focus groups are great for gaining a better understanding of user opinions, preferences, attitudes, and reactions to a particular topic, concept, or prototype.
What do you get?
The output of a focus group typically includes findings and recommendations that inform requirements, feature offerings, and/or the design of a new or available product or website. Outputs also include insight into who the users are, their characteristics, environments of use, and how the product or website fits (or does not fit) into their lifestyle.