Developing modern software systems involves numerous challenges, including ensuring effective interaction with clients and end-users. Limited user engagement can compromise both the accuracy of product specifications and the quality of its evaluation. This article describes a strategy to address this issue by integrating users into the development cycle of modern software systems through validation sessions grounded in the Technology Probe (TP) approach. Building upon the TP principles and lessons learned from two prior real applications, as well as knowledge from a literature review of current practices in applying TP in software engineering, a validation session using a TP technique has been evolved. The goal is to enhance this technique by introducing practices that support software engineers conducting TP-based validation sessions. The proposed enhancements include a structured process, tools for capturing user feedback, and resources for supporting the involved practitioners. Therefore, this work provides a structured, evidence-based approach to using TP technique in validation sessions.
Grennda Guerra FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, Breno Miranda Federal University of Pernambuco, Anton Fedosov FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland