Focus Group Discussion Guide

Introduction

• Moderator introduces self, the client and the project.
• Explain how long the session is expected to run.
• Ask participants to switch off mobile phones for the duration of the session.

Focus group objectives

• Explain briefly the objectives of the discussion.
• The objectives are to understand:
  - the user group's information requirements,
  - how they access information and services, and
  - barriers to information access.

Participant consent

• Read the confidentiality statement to participants. This statement is located on the
  front page of the questionnaire.
• Explain that participants can ask for clarification at any time.

Introduce Participants

Ask participants to go around the group and introduce themselves.

1

Here is a list of issues that have been identified as important

[Sample list from parents' interviews]

• Education
• Job/work
• Health
• Drugs
• Drinking
• Safety

List issues on flip chart.

Note: The issues list was generated from earlier profiling activities.

If a list of issues has not been generated then use this question to quickly brainstorm responses.

Important: Keep the issues list visible throughout the session and make additions whenever required.

2

Ask participants if they wish to add any more issues.

Add issues to list on flip chart.

3

Ask participants to group the issues and rank the top 5 issues.

Group Activity: Ask participants to group and rank the issues on the paper provided.

4

What are your specific information needs for each issue?

List on flip chart.
Examples: How to find an appropriate course, alcohol education programs

5

Do you use government web sites to search for information or services on the issues?

Count show of hands yes/no against list.

6

Which web sites? Why?

List on flip chart.

1

• Do you face any problems in using government websites?
• What problems do you face?

Count yes/no by show of hands.
Brainstorm responses.

2

What would you like to see/expect when you visit a government site?

Brainstorm responses.

3

Ask them what they like or may dislike about the government sites.

Brainstorm responses.
Make two separate lists for positive and negative attributes.

1

• Can you give me an example of an instance when you had to look for information on one of these issues?
• Where did you search?

Ask participants in turn to briefly describe a scenario where they had to locate information.
Example: Use the issues list.

2

• Did you achieve a successful outcome?
• Why do you think so?

Brainstorm responses.
List success and success factors.