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Summary
As research grows its influence, organizations are increasingly aware that they need a research function. More and more of us are taking on the challenge of establishing a research practice as an organization’s first researcher. It’s a compelling challenge—it’s exciting to create something new without the baggage we’ve been saddled with elsewhere. But organizational change is hard. Among other things, first-researchers have to figure out how, piece by piece, to integrate research workflows into the organization’s current context.
Key Insights
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Establishing research requires a strategic mindset, asking 'What's going on here?', 'What should we do about it?', and 'How are we undertaking that work?',' Building credibility often starts with understanding existing organizational dynamics and shared goals.
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Visual diagnostics, like Wardley maps, are powerful tools for gaining trust and clarity on strategic issues in organizations.
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Identifying explicit and latent demand for research is crucial for aligning your efforts with organizational needs.
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Creating shared understanding is often more impactful than completing research projects in isolation.
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Establishing strong relationships with sales and support teams can bridge gaps and uncover user insights.
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Broadcasting research outcomes and engaging stakeholders enhances visibility and encourages demand for future research projects.
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Building a practice in research is usually a gradual process requiring consistent evaluation and iteration.
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Effective socialization of research findings with different teams can create leverage for research initiatives.
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Research should be viewed as a portfolio of interconnected activities that impacts users, teams, and the organization as a whole.
Notable Quotes
"Don't get fired is obviously a big one."
"Even when teams want research, they may not realize that they have to change how they operate to make use of your work."
"The first thing that we achieve is shared understanding."
"Visual modeling is a key practice for developing our diagnosis."
"You can pull pieces and parts from off-the-shelf models as you need, but only where it makes sense."
"The act of developing a diagnosis generates trust and authority."
"The right partnerships allow you to make a greater impact over time."
"User research is about gaining insights but also requires strategic coherence with business goals."
"The way to induce demand is through targeted socialization of your work."
"Establishing research is years-long work that requires coordinated actions across multiple levels."
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