Observational study is simply observing user behaviour in a systematic way without influencing or interfering with the behaviour. 

Pros:

• Allows you to see exactly how users are experiencing a product, service or space.
• Observation provides a more reliable method of user behaviour.
• Access to users in real life situations.

Cons:

• Presence of researcher may influence user behaviour
• Not realistic for use with large groups
• Attitudes and opinions cannot be interpreted through behaviour so only tells part of the story.
• May be subconcious bias on the part of the person undertaking the study.

YourSpace YourShout

Walton UX project