Plan the evidence
before the session.

This working protocol starts from the fictional exhibition question. Choose the intent and conditions that fit the inquiry; it does not automatically pick a “best” method.

Research intent

Feasible evidence conditions

Find access information / A moderated conversation

Research question

Can a first-time visitor find the information they need to plan an accessible exhibition visit?

Participants to recruit

Recruit intended first-time visitors whose relevant planning needs fit the research question. Agree recruitment criteria without collecting unnecessary sensitive details.

Task prompt

“You are planning a first visit to the exhibition. Find the information you would use to decide whether the route into the building will work for you.”

Evidence approach

Moderated task walkthrough

Record route choices and the participant’s words in separate notes. Ask “What are you looking for?” only when necessary; do not tell them where to click.

Attend to: Entry point, labels considered, route through the pages and the information used to decide the task is complete.

Why this approach: Seeing the route and asking a neutral follow-up can distinguish an action from the reason the person gives for it. The moderator may still influence behavior.

Consent and privacy

Explain the purpose, voluntary participation, withdrawal options and data handling before the session. Obtain separate permission for any recording; a notes-only session is valid. Do not include identifying or sensitive details in a shared report.

Limits on conclusions

This is a small qualitative inquiry plan, not a representative estimate of how often a problem occurs.

Finding a page does not establish that the venue or its guidance meets someone’s actual access needs.

A proposed plan, not a completed study. Review recruitment, consent, accessibility and handling of sensitive information with the people responsible before using it.

Carry this protocol into an inquiry
Sample business, made up for this preview