In my UX CoderGirl class, we used LimeBike to practice Contexual Inquiry. Our goal was to observe how users interact with LimeBike in context, which in our scenario, was Launchcode's parking lot. My teacher broke our class up into groups of five (one user and four observers) and I played the role of observer.

User: Users were instructed to "announce what they are doing" while performing the task (e.g., downloading the LimeBike app, going through the onboarding steps as a first time user, the experience riding the bike, maneuvering the bike on the sidewalk).
 

Observer: As an observer, I was instructed to record the time periodically, document body language, snap photos/videos, and ask questions.
 

CHALLENGE

• Trying to build rapport with the user while he/she was performing the tasks

• Finding balance between documenting key thoughts and observing the user

• Resisting the urge to assist the user if she was having difficulties performing a task

RESULT

• Observing the user in real time and in their natural environment provided my group with accurate information

• Learned what was important to the user (a comfy seat cushion, the handlebars were too tall for the user, usability of the app to unlock the bike, etc.)