Preliminary guidelines are presented to provide a methodology for conducting user studies in the information field, particularly in developing countries. Topics covered include: user needs in planning a national information system; the identification of user groups; the design and organization of user studies, including background research survey objectives, resources, survey organization, selection of data collection methods, and sampling and response rate; data collection methods including documentary sources, diaries, questioning and observation; evaluation of data on information needs; and the nature and content of survey reports. Ten figures, 35 references, and an 11-item bibliography are provided. Appended are 11 sample questionnaires, designed for such audiences as the staff of educational institutions, library users, and small and large farms or establishments. (RBF)