Lived Experience Observations

For designers, researchers, and innovation teams, Lived Experience Observations capture often-overlooked moments that affect how people access, participate, and experience the world around them.

BROWSE OBSERVATIONS

This collection brings together concise, field-note style observations by Nick Norman drawn from real-world experiences moving through services, environments, communities, and systems.

Before the receptionist

Arrival and check-in experience Read Observation →

Movement can feel safer than waiting

When the flow of people feels more comfortable than waiting Read Observation →

From open atrium to crowded waiting room

Healthcare environments · transitions between spaces Read Observation →

Entering on your own terms

Church entrances and first moments of participation Read Observation →

Community can form in unexpected places

Shared tasks and participation Read Observation →