When you work with users in interaction design you need an evaluation. You can borrow methods from other fields like:

• History
• Geography
• Anthropology
• Psychology
• Engineering
• Physics etc.

Evaluation is used throughout the three imported process parts:

• evaluating ideas, hypotheses (usually before it starts)
• evaluating prototypes, reflection practice, back to the field (usually during the design process)
• evaluating lessons learned, methods used (usually done after the process)

Personal experience/thoughts:

Personally I think I have underestimated the importance of the evaluation in the design process. In the past I only used evaluation at the end of the process, to see how others react and interact with my work and to get some final conclusion. However I will try from now on to use evaluation more in the design process. Because it might lead to better results if I figure out sooner where the weaknesses of my work lie.

Interaction Design Methods 2021