Customer Partnering: Another Way to Gather User Data
http://www.stc.org/confproceed/1997/PDFs/PG286-.PDF

Elser, Arthur G.
STC Proceedings
1997

Abstract:

Information developers have been using user-centered design principles for some time now. Many of the techniques available, however, do not provide the depth of knowledge needed to design more complex information products. Customer partnering sessions take place ofer a period of three or four months, allowing information developers to learn more about customer needs and how information products are used. Customer partnering relationships benefit both the company that funds the sessions and the customers who attend them.