In order to deeply understand the topic, you need to do some research. But it is important to know that research isn't just about reading. Research is about digging deep into a topic and discovering new information.
The goal of research is to UNDERSTAND the issue or problem you are tackling. So research could be.....
- Reading websites, books and articles
- Reviewing videos and podcasts
- Interviewing experts
- Conducting surveys for needs assessments, usability requirements
- Interviewing expected audience, customers, or users for feedback on usability, beliefs, styles, needs
- Conducting an experiment in order to advance your understanding and thinking
- Analyzing data - data already available, or your own data that you gather
- Market research - examining competing products, types of customers, various advertisements, etc
- Examining cause and effect of a problem
- Developing skills needed to complete the project. How do I code an app? How do I write a novel? How do I write a documentary script?