Steve Portigal, author of Interviewing Users, reflects on the evolution of user research in the past decade, emphasizing the importance of understanding people's needs. Topics include personal growth in research, preserving organizational memory, empathetic data consent, and navigating challenges in tech. The discussion also delves into the significance of asking the right questions in user research amidst the AI age.
User research has shifted towards in-house teams, emphasizing research leadership and structuring within organizations.
Research operations play a crucial role in data management, compliance, and impacting organizations through structured archiving and documentation.
Deep dives
The Evolution of User Research in the Last Decade
Over the past ten years, the practice of user research has evolved significantly, particularly in the shift from consultancy-based work to in-house research teams. This change brought a new focus on research leadership and structuring research within organizations, impacting how research is conducted. Additionally, the concept of 'People Who Do Research' (PWDR) is introduced to acknowledge a broader range of individuals engaging in research activities, beyond just titled researchers.
Importance of Institutional Memory and Research Operations
The importance of institutional memory and effective research operations is highlighted in the context of storing and utilizing research data. Themes such as analysis, synthesis, and having an impact within organizations are emphasized, reflecting a growing need for structured data archiving, compliance, and documentation. Research operations serve as key actors in building processes that support data management, privacy compliance, and the efficient retrieval of research insights.
Challenges and Opportunities in Research Consenting Processes
The complexities of research consenting processes are discussed, emphasizing the need for accessible and human-centered approaches to securing user consent. The evolution of privacy awareness, particularly driven by regulations like GDPR, has influenced how interviews and research are conducted. Research leaders and operations are tasked with navigating legal requirements, ensuring user privacy, and fostering a transparent and empathetic research environment.
Future Outlook and Resilience in User Research Practice
Looking ahead to the next five years, uncertainties and challenges in the user research landscape are acknowledged, with concerns around lay-offs and industry shifts. Despite these anxieties, the essential nature of user research in fostering human connection, curiosity, and informed decision-making is reaffirmed. The conversation ends on a hopeful note, emphasizing that while the field may face fluctuations, the fundamental principles of caring for users and understanding human behavior will remain integral to successful research practices.
S02E18 (#328). Over ten years have passed since the first edition of Steve Portigal’s legendary book Interviewing Users was released. Together with Steve, we reflect on how user research has evolved during the past decade, and how the importance of user research in order to understand people and their needs is still crucial.
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