INTERVIEW ONE TIME GNOME USER
DESCRIPTION: This report presents the results of a user experience research study aimed at acquiring insights into the attitudes, behaviors, and preferences of participants concerning the Gnome desktop environment. As part of this research, a virtual user interview was conducted with "Victor," a project manager and full-stack developer who was utilizing Gnome for the initial time.
RESEARCH PARTICIPANT DETAILS Name: Victor Akintayo Occupation: Project Manager/Full-Stack Developer Industry: Financial Technology Gnome version used: 45 Distribution used: Linux distribution Fedora 39
RESEARCH GOAL The primary objective of this research is to gain comprehensive insights into user experiences, preferences, and challenges associated with the GNOME desktop environment.
KEY FINDINGS
Variation in Perceptions: User is familiar with Microsoft window & Mac operating environment, which made his experience relatable. Gnome onboarding process was seamless for him.
Customization Preferences: User enjoys the dark mode working space and it was easy to navigate. Additional modification is screen display, password modification & user name.
Impact of Difficulties: The major challenge he encountered was adding new third party software because he couldn't navigate his way quickly. the usual third party software like B.Scode, Gitlab etc.
Proficiency and Long-term Engagement: Victor initially found it stressful to navigate how to find his way, but eventually was able to crack the interaction of the system. The accessibility features, display features, adding third party application made the desktop environment more interactive.
Identification of Pain Points: Victor couldn’t partition the storage to identify what the environment is consuming on his system Storage information was not easily accessible.
Accessibility Challenges: Victor could not initially navigate where to set up on disc spaces.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Simplified Third-Party Software Installation: Implement a more intuitive and user-friendly process for adding new third-party software. Provide clearer guidance or prompts within GNOME for installing commonly used applications like B.Scode and Gitlab. Include a curated list of popular third-party applications that users can easily install with a single click.
2. Enhanced Storage Partitioning and Management: Develop clearer and more accessible tools for users to partition and manage storage within GNOME. Integrate a user-friendly interface for identifying and managing disk spaces, making it easier for users like Victor to understand and utilize.
3. Improved Onboarding Guidance: Enhance the onboarding process with interactive tutorials or guided tours for new users. Include tooltips or pop-up guides within the interface to help users familiarize themselves with features, especially for those transitioning from other operating systems.
4. User Assistance and Help Section: Include a dedicated help section within GNOME with comprehensive guides and troubleshooting tips. Provide easily accessible resources for users to get assistance or find answers to common questions.
CONCLUSION
Implementing these recommendations would not only address the challenges faced by users like Victor but also enhance the overall usability and accessibility of the GNOME environment. By focusing on user-centric design, intuitive interfaces, and collaboration with third-party developers, GNOME can continue to evolve as a robust and user-friendly operating environment.
ATTATCHMENTS
Interview Report
INTERVIEW A NEW GNOME USER RESEARCH REPORT.pdf
Research Plan