Indirect observation captures activity that would otherwise have gone unrecorded or unnoticed. Limitations Observing can be obtrusive and subjects may alter their behaviour due to the presence of an observer. Co-operation of users is vital and so the interpersonal skills of the observer are important. Notes and video tape need to be analysed by the note-taker which can be time consuming and prevents the task being split up for analysis by a number of people. If events or behaviours which occur at unpredictable intervals are of interest, this kind of observation can become extremely time-consuming.
Indirect observation requires access to audio visual recording and playback equipment.
Costs of Acquisition Observers require training and practice in order to take accurate and complete notes. Technique widely used in industry by HCI consultants, and portable video kits are popular. How to get it Widely documented in the literature. It is extremely important at this stage to find out what will happen to the end-product of this process, and therefore to tailor the whole process to the requirements of those who will receive the results. Gain contacts and especially their co-operation with the process of Naturalistic Observation that you intend to carry out.