Key Insights

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  Switching to a new research method often occurs when current methods cannot adequately answer the research question or have inherent biases, as Ricardo explained.

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  A mixed-methods and cross-functional approach allows researchers to address gaps one tool alone cannot fill, advocated by Nadi.

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  Leaders like Amy encourage saying yes to team experimentation with novel tools and running pilots to evolve the research toolkit.

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  Participatory and experimental methods are gaining renewed interest, with attempts to redeem sometimes maligned methods like focus groups.

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  Combining qualitative data such as video and quotes with quantitative findings helps keep participant experiences vivid for stakeholders.

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  Right-sizing research—both in participant group size and project scope—is critical to respect community burden and project constraints, as emphasized by Ricardo and Nadi.

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  Balancing fast, lighter UX studies with longer academic or in-depth research enables continuous insight delivery and organizational patience for complexity, shared by Amy.

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  Navigating stakeholder resistance requires aligning on shared organizational goals, choosing battles carefully, and emphasizing research objectivity, as experienced by the panelists.

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  Lean Research principles focusing on respect, relevance, and appropriate scale offer frameworks for conducting equitable and community-sensitive research.

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  Upskilling less experienced researchers benefits from mentorship, community involvement, sharing simple tools and templates, and introducing safe spaces to experiment with methods.

Notable Quotes