UX Research in Uncertain Times: Strengthening the Profession’s Core
The article focuses on the current state of UX research, particularly in light of recent layoffs and the need to strengthen the profession’s foundations. It highlights three key pillars that are essential for a well-rounded UX researcher: science, discipline, and profession.
Science: UX research as an evidence-based practice
The article emphasizes the scientific foundation of UX research, advocating for a data-driven approach. The core of UX research, it argues, is the generation of credible, repeatable insights through rigorous methods. It suggests researchers need to move beyond mere storytelling and empathy to embrace scientific rigor and deliver measurable results.
**Key elements of the science pillar include**:
* Formulating clear and concise research questions.
* Selecting appropriate research methods that meet scientific standards.
* Ensuring systematic and repeatable data collection processes.
* Applying rigorous data analysis techniques.
This pillar emphasizes the importance of continuous professional development in research methodology, including:
* Deepening knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
* Becoming proficient in analysis tools such as R, Python, or advanced Excel/SPSS features.
* Staying abreast of emerging fields like AI-driven UX research and advanced statistical techniques.
Discipline: Maintaining structure and ethics in research
Discipline in UX research, the article argues, is about following a structured and systematic approach, ensuring transparency, repeatability, and ethical conduct. It advocates for a shift away from informal, ad-hoc practices towards a disciplined approach that builds credibility and strengthens the impact of research findings.
**Key elements of the discipline pillar include**:
* Planning and documentation, ensuring each project has a defined goal, methodology, and a clear roadmap.
* Adhering to ethical standards such as informed consent, confidentiality, and unbiased research processes.
* Designing research that can be replicated, ensuring future studies can validate the findings.
The article stresses the importance of recognizing that both qualitative and quantitative methods are essential for understanding the complexities of human behavior. Mastery of both ensures that UX researchers deliver holistic insights and drive action.
Profession: UX research as a strategic career path
The article contends that UX research is a career path that should have strategic value within an organization. It encourages researchers to move beyond simply delivering reports and embrace a proactive role in driving change and influencing decision-making.
**Key elements of the profession pillar include**:
* Aligning research with business goals to ensure insights directly impact decision-making and organizational value.
* Communicating insights effectively to decision-makers through clear, actionable recommendations that influence the product roadmap.
* Advocating for the value of research within the organization, demonstrating its tangible impact and ensuring its integration into broader decision-making processes.
It emphasizes the importance of increasing professional eminence and visibility by sharing research insights in public forums, participating in conferences, and contributing to industry publications.
The article also encourages building influence and visibility within an organization by aligning work with key business goals and communicating research insights in ways that resonate with decision-makers.
Conclusion: Rigor and strategic focus as keys to long-term success
The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of developing expertise across all three pillars—science, discipline, and profession. By taking these pillars seriously, UX researchers can position themselves as indispensable members of their organizations and ensure the long-term success of the profession.
This is a summary of the original article: Strengthening UX research amid uncertainty published on UX Collective.
