Page 76 - Process_Book_Cheryl_Brewster

Reflection

Reflection Limitations

As the research was conducted by a single researcher, time was
a limitation between survey distribution, interview scheduling and
Herdly is a research design project aimed at improving postpartum

observational research. This resulted in fewer completed interviews
loneliness by connecting parents in a flexible and trusted way. The
than initially planned, which may not fully represent parental
research uncovered that parents want to connect on a deeper level to

experiences, however, with the combination of 180 survey responses
form friendships and longer lasting companionship.
along with the in depth interviews and observational insights, the

researcher feels they have uncovered meaningful patterns and trends.
The researcher took a mix method approach to collecting data from
parents. The quantitative data from the survey and the qualitative

Recruiting fathers for the survey was difficult and male interview
information from the interviews and observation were analysed and
participants required more prompting during the interviews therefore
synthesised to recognise trends and patterns ensuring that the insights

the father experience may be underrepresented. It’s also important to
reflected the parents voice and experience.
note that the topic revolves around mental health which is a sensitive

subject, the researcher felt that at times that parents held back.
The solution was guided by the parent’s needs and directed by UX
principles to ensure the final output was intuitive, accessible, and

supported the challenges faced by parents. Feedback from users
Next steps
was crucial to the success of the prototype, parents were asked to

be involved at every stage and their input was invaluable. All design To ensure that the prototype meets the needs of parents, a trial

decisions were informed by the data and feedback provided to solve version of the application should be developed for further testing and

the issue of postpartum loneliness through connection. feedback. This would allow additional qualitative insights from parents

to be collected, to help improve and refine the application. It could also

The final Herdly application is a reflection of the insights gathered, expand the functions and features to meet the needs of all it’s possible

designed through empathy and driven by commitment to create a users allowing for the application to grow into something more useful

trusted, inclusive, flexible space for connection and support. and supportive for parents.

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