When creating an interview study, you’ll be prompted to select a device type for participants to use when joining their sessions: either a mobile device or a desktop computer. While participants are required to use your study’s selected device type, researchers will always join a session using a computer.
Each device type fits a different purpose, so here’s some guidance to help you choose:
-
Mobile: Best for simulating a mobile app or experience. For example, if you want to share a mobile prototype with participants, you’re best off conducting a mobile interview study.
Note: In order to join a mobile interview study, participants must use a device that meets Dscout’s minimum device requirements. For more information, see Minimum device requirements. - Desktop: Best for conducting media-heavy interviews. For example, if you plan to share complex prototypes or a lot of stimuli, you’re best off conducting a desktop interview study.
| Capability | Desktop | Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| In-session chat | ✅ | ❌ |
| Researcher screenshare | ✅ | ❌ |
| Participant screenshare | ✅ | ✅ |
| Simultaneous screenshare and camera capture | ✅ |
✅
Note: Camera capture is paused if the participant leaves the Dscout app while sharing their screen.
|
| Remote access to moderator and/or participant screens | ❌ | ❌ |
| Audio capture | ✅ |
✅
Note: Some mobile devices override microphone access to the Dscout app, which can occasionally affect audio capture. If you run into this issue, see Troubleshooting an interview session for more information.
|
| Support for observers and guests | ✅ |
✅
Note: Inviting more than five observers or guests to a session may result in call quality degradation.
|
| Multiple moderators | ✅ (On supported Dscout plans) | ❌ |
| Participants must join using a desktop web browser | ✅ | ❌ |
| Participants must join using the Dscout app | ❌ | ✅ |
Change interview study device type
You’ll select your device type when you create a new interview study. However, you can change your selection prior to launch from the Setup tab of your study.
To change your study’s device type:
- Navigate to the Setup tab of your study. Then, select Details.
- Click anywhere in the Specs section.
- Select a Device (desktop or mobile).
- Click Done.
Now, your study’s device type has been updated. When you launch your study, participants will be notified and instructed to use the appropriate device when joining their session.