Final answer:
The iterative design process is not a core principle of contextual inquiry, which instead focuses on user context, goals, observations, and partnerships.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle that is NOT a guiding principle of contextual inquiry is d. Iterative design process. Contextual inquiry is a user research method used in software development to understand the users' needs and goals in their specific workplace context. The principles that guide contextual inquiry are a. Context of workplace and users, b. Focus on goals and questions, c. Interpretation of observations, and e. Partnership between user and developer. These principles ensure that the design process is based on user-centric needs and leads to more effective and user-friendly software.
The principle that is NOT a guide in the process of contextual inquiry is an iterative design process. Contextual inquiry focuses on the context of the workplace and users, maintaining a focus on goals and questions, interpretation of observations, and fostering a partnership between the user and developer to ensure the product design aligns with user needs and environments. However, the iterative design process, while integral to product design and development, is not one of its core principles.