Synthetic users refers to an emerging and controversial concept, which opens the door to multiple interpretations. In this context, we identify synthetic users as sets of behaviors generated from the analysis of large volumes of data obtained from an extensive language model. For ease of understanding, we can imagine these users as intelligent avatars that mimic interactions with real people.
These synthetic users function as digital explorers in documentary research or as conversational characters in data visualization following research with real users. They act as virtual guides that provide valuable insights into user behavior, even within simulated environments.
The process of creating a synthetic user is comparable to the development of a persona. That is, researchers collect data from different users to identify an average behavior. They then build a narrative to operationalize this information, creating simplifications that facilitate team communication, analysis and value generation.
What are synthetic users
Unlike traditional personas developed by researchers or designers, this user is an artificially created entity. Often, it has been designed using artificial intelligence or computer simulation. They are programmed using sources such as public blogs, social networks, forums and scientific studies to reflect behaviors, preferences and usage patterns similar to those of real users.
As for the research approach involving the use of this users, it breaks down the conventional barriers between qualitative and quantitative research. It is a hybrid approach, which is neither purely qualitative nor purely quantitative. While models can be fed with data, it is also possible to explore the nuances and quality of experiences at a deeper, qualitative level.
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