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Are we doing UX Research right?
As UX researchers, we often see ourselves as influencers, diligently working to steer decision-makers toward choices that benefit both our users and the bottom line. We provide insights into user contexts and craft product recommendations, aiming to foster flexibility in solution creation. But is this always the most effective approach? Could there be instances where we need to transcend our traditional roles to deliver even greater value?
(This article is the continuation of the previous piece I wrote on the future of UX Research inspired by Airbnb’s product management shift)
Before a wave of tech industry layoffs, I operated with more sense of certainty. In a complex ecosystem where UX Research intertwined with disciplines like Data Science, Product Management, Design, and Engineering, some decided, others implemented, and there were those who influenced decisions. We UX Researchers, I believed, fell into the third category: the influencers.
In the most simplified terms, our success as a UX Research department seemed to hinge on three key steps: