The hottest Methodology Substack posts right now

Fancy math doesn't invalidate simple math truths.
When experts disagree with non-experts, the burden is on the experts to explain the flaws in the simple arguments.
Even if a fancy argument seems more convincing, if a simple one is strong and clear, it should hold weight.

The "Costa Meno" list features affordable, authentic, charming, and soulful places to stay in Italy near the coast.
These accommodations offer a deeper connection to the location and owners compared to traditional 5-star hotels.
The list includes accommodations under 300 euros a night, focusing on small hotels and rentals near the water.

Outlier polls can be surprising and stand out from the average
Understanding sources of error in polls helps explain outlier results
Aggregation models like 538's can address outlier-induced error and pollster-induced bias

Designing AI systems using a strengths-based approach can empower users across a wide array of abilities, rather than highlighting deficits.
Key frameworks like Universal Design, Ability-Based Design, and Design for User Empowerment help create more accessible and empowering intelligent systems.
Using qualitative research methods like co-design and long-term engagement can provide deeper insights into diverse user experiences, enhancing the design process.

Fresh and innovative research methods are challenging traditional academic orthodoxies.
Academics should focus on producing original empirical and theoretical work rather than just discussing exciting research agendas.
Be cautious of claiming to be a rebel in academia without earning it properly.

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The number of participants in a usability study should be chosen based on factors like the impact of the study, complexity of the product, target user groups, and study's purpose. A range of 3-20 participants is generally valid, with 5-10 being a sensible baseline.
Increasing the number of participants in a usability study can improve the reliability of findings. For example, using 10 participants can uncover 95% of the problems on average, while 15 participants can identify 97% of the issues.
Choosing the right methodology and preventing facilitator errors are crucial in usability testing, as poor methodology can lead to invalid study results regardless of participant group size. Quality over quantity is key in ensuring effective usability testing.

Microservices offer advantages like scalability and fault-tolerance, but come with challenges like increased latency and management overhead.
A proposed solution suggests writing monolith applications, leveraging runtime for deployments, and implementing atomic rollouts to address microservices challenges.
By modularizing code into components, abstracting communication details, and managing deployment lifecycles, the solution aims to improve performance and reduce costs.

The role of a Technical Program Manager (TPM) involves defining and implementing the methodology and framework for software development projects.
Methodologies provide general principles while frameworks offer specific plans of action.
It's important for TPMs to be flexible in choosing the right methodology and framework based on the project's specific needs and requirements.