user research, continuous discovery, Decathlon, delivery, user experience, product development, agile methodologies, customer feedback, iterative design ## Introduction In the fast-paced world of product development, understanding user needs is paramount. This is where continuous discovery comes into play, a methodology that allows teams to conduct user research while maintaining a steady flow of delivery. I recently had the opportunity to test this approach at Decathlon, a global leader in sports retail. In this article, I will share my experiences, experiments, and key learnings from implementing continuous discovery, highlighting how it can revolutionize user research in an agile environment. ## What is Continuous Discovery? Continuous discovery is an ongoing approach to user research that encourages teams to gather insights from users on a regular basis throughout the product development cycle. Unlike traditional methods that rely on one-off research sessions, continuous discovery promotes a culture of collaboration and feedback. This methodology allows teams to validate assumptions, iterate on designs, and ultimately create products that resonate with users. At Decathlon, the emphasis on continuous discovery aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional user experiences. By integrating user research into our agile processes, we can fine-tune our offerings and respond to customer needs more effectively. ## Implementing Continuous Discovery at Decathlon ### Setting the Stage for User Research The first step in implementing continuous discovery was to create an environment that values user feedback. This involved educating team members about the importance of user research and how it can influence product decisions. Workshops and training sessions were organized to equip the team with the necessary skills to conduct effective user interviews, surveys, and usability tests. Creating a user-centered mindset was crucial. We encouraged our teams to think from the user's perspective, fostering empathy and understanding of their needs. By emphasizing the significance of user research, we laid the groundwork for a culture of continuous discovery. ### Balancing Delivery with User Research One of the most significant challenges we faced was balancing the demands of delivery with the need for ongoing user research. Agile methodologies prioritize fast delivery cycles, which can sometimes lead to the neglect of user feedback. To overcome this challenge, we established a framework that integrated user research into our sprint cycles. Each sprint included dedicated time for user interviews and feedback sessions. This ensured that user insights were continually incorporated into our development process without compromising delivery timelines. ### Experimentation and Iteration Continuous discovery thrives on experimentation. We adopted a mindset of testing and learning, which allowed us to explore various research methods and tools. I conducted A/B tests, user interviews, and contextual inquiries to gather diverse insights. Each method provided unique perspectives, enabling us to refine our understanding of user needs. One of my most impactful experiments involved a usability test of our mobile application. We invited a group of users to navigate the app while observing their interactions. This direct observation revealed several pain points and areas for improvement. By iterating on the app design based on user feedback, we significantly enhanced the user experience. ## Key Learnings from Continuous Discovery ### User-Centric Design One of the most profound lessons I learned during this process is the importance of user-centric design. By continuously engaging with users, we were able to identify their preferences, pain points, and desires. This insight allowed us to create products that truly resonate with our target audience. ### Collaboration is Key Continuous discovery is not a solo endeavor. It thrives on collaboration across departments, including product management, design, and marketing. At Decathlon, we fostered a culture of teamwork, where insights from user research were shared across the organization. This collaborative approach ensured that everyone was aligned and working towards a common goal: delivering exceptional user experiences. ### Embracing Change The nature of continuous discovery means that change is constant. User needs evolve, and so should our approach to product development. By embracing change and being open to feedback, we cultivated a flexible mindset that allowed us to pivot when necessary. This adaptability is essential for staying relevant in today’s dynamic market. ## Conclusion My journey with continuous discovery at Decathlon has been transformative, both for my professional growth and for the company's approach to user research. By embedding user feedback into our agile processes, we have been able to create products that not only meet but exceed user expectations. As we continue to refine our practices, I encourage other organizations to explore the potential of continuous discovery. By prioritizing user research alongside delivery, companies can unlock deeper insights and drive innovation. The result? A more engaged user base and a stronger, more successful product offering. Continuous discovery is not just a methodology; it is a mindset that can lead to remarkable outcomes in user experience and product development. Source: https://blog.octo.com/octo-rex--j'ai-teste-la-continuous-discovery-chez-decathlon