A moderated session is a user research method where a moderator oversees and interacts with participants in real-time. This method is particularly useful for gathering qualitative insights, observing user behavior, and obtaining direct feedback on products, services, or prototypes. It provides a deeper understanding of participants' thought processes and decision-making, offering valuable insights for product improvement. Moderated sessions can also be recorded for later analysis and review.
Roles in a Moderated Session
Moderator: Guides the session, asks questions, ensures participants follow the test plan, takes notes, and manages the overall flow of the session.
Participant: Interacts with the product or service being tested and provides feedback and insights during the session.
Observer: Watches the live session without actively participating. Only workspace members can join as observers.
How to Schedule a Moderated Session
You can either schedule a session for later or start an instant session.
Starting an Instant Session
- Initiate Session:
- Click on the "Moderated Session" icon on your Crowd dashboard or click on the "Create New" button and select "Moderated Session."
2. Schedule New Session:
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Click on the "Schedule New Session" button.
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Select "Start an Instant Session."
3. Enter Session Details:
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Enter the session name.
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To add multiple participants, click on the "Group Session" button. Enter participant names and click the plus sign (+) to add more participants. To delete participants, click on the delete icon (optional).
4. Create Session:
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Click on "Create" to start an instant session.
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Copy the autogenerated links and share them with your participants or observers.
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The moderator starts the meeting by clicking the "Join as Moderator" button. Note that participants and observers cannot join until the moderator starts the session.
Scheduling a Session for Later
1. Initiate Scheduling:
- After clicking the "Schedule New Session" button, select "Schedule a Session for Later."
2. Fill Out Session Details:
- Enter the session name, participant names, emails (add multiple participants if needed), date, and duration. The end time will be automatically populated based on your plan when you enter the start time.
3. Create Session:
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Click on "Create" to schedule your moderated session.
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Copy the autogenerated links and share them with your participants or observers.
4. Access Scheduled Session:
At the scheduled time, the moderator should click on the session and join the meeting as Moderator.
Session Guide:
The session guide provides guidance to moderators who need help conducting a successful moderated session. Access the session guide by clicking the "Check out Session Guide" button or via this link.
For a visual walkthrough, you can watch this demo video.