Empathy Maps
Empathy maps are tools that are extensively used to get immersed in the user/learner’s world. T hey are generally used by and have been popularised by the UX industry but can be used in any industry that needs to understand its users/ learners. They are very helpful in enabling us to see the world from the user/learner’s perspective. Due to this I feel they can be effectively used when conducting needs analysis. Normally when we are developing a business solution or a training program, we try to make it fit the user/learner’s requirements. We determine these requirements based on the cohort characteristics and some details provided by relevant stakeholders (management, HR etc.). However, rarely is any effort made to actually understand the needs and requirements of the end user/learner. Even the input provided by their manager may have bias and gaps in it. So how do you ensure you have a deep understanding of the user/learner. The answer is by building Em