Back

Sample sizes in UX Research

Jan 16th 8:00AM PST; 11:00AM EST; 4:00 PM GMT; 5:00 PM EST

30 min

Summary: Sample sizes in UX Research matter. It is essential that you get quality data and that you communicate the research nuances to stakeholders. Field studies require more users than user testing.

What are the correct sample sizes for UX Research?

In this Masterclass, Frank Spillers, CEO of Experience Dynamics and UX Inner Circle founder, will discuss sample sizes in User Research.

Understanding Sample Sizes

In UX research, a sample size refers to the number of participants included in a study. This group represents a larger population, allowing researchers to draw conclusions about user behaviors, preferences, and needs.

However, the right sample size is vital for credibility + validity in UX research. Understanding qualitative research goals in UX is critical. Why? An adequately sized sample yields more dependable insights. Low or large sample size can also be less useful for various reasons.

Agenda: UX Research sample sizes (beyond 5 users)

  1. How many users do I need to test my UX theories?
  2. UX techniques vs sample size questions
  3. Why Jakob Nielsen’s 5-user mantra is outdated
  4. Scaling five users in Lean to Inclusive Design efforts
  5. Q&A

More topics we will cover in this Miniclass:

  • UX Research vs Market Research + Academic research
  • Sample sizes for all common UXR techniques
  • Handling sample size objections
  • Building a ‘culture of Qual’ for UX maturity

About Miniclasses:

A brief but deep-dive into a topic led by Frank Spillers. The sessions provide an orientation to key points on a topic. The sessions are FREE to members of the UX Inner Circle. Apply to join, or try it free for 30 days…(billing starts month 2, cancel anytime). Also, see: What kind of people join the UXIC?

(This is paid Member Content)

Member? Sign In to watch full


Who You will Learn From

headshot of frank spillers

Frank Spillers

Founder - UX Inner Circle

Frank Spillers, MS, founded the UX Inner Circle in 2020 to support senior practitioners facing complex challenges. The community exists to sharpen thinking, increase your confidence, and pressure-test real decisions. It’s built for people doing the work, not just talking about it. Frank founded an award-winning UX and Service Design consultancy (Experience Dynamics) and now leads UX and Service Design at numerous organisations, including the UK Government Digital Service. He has worked with and led teams to deliver hundreds of products and services over several decades. His work spans government, enterprise platforms, nonprofits, and global brands. He brings 25+ years as a senior UX and Service Design leader. His focus areas include Inclusive Design, accessibility, emotion-led design, cross-cultural UX, VR/AR, and UX leadership. His work has directly increased conversion by 88% and revenue by 300% for organizations including Nike, Microsoft, Intel, Capital One, Global Disability Rights Now!, the World Bank, and the City of New York.