Summary
We've all heard about the trends around democratizing research, but less about how to do it in a sustainable way that fits our unique business models and environments. This session will cover critical considerations and strategies based on experience and case studies around how and when it is is appropriate to consider enabling and empowering non-researchers to gather insights and best practices on how to create process, training, and tools that drive success.
Key Insights
-
•
Organizations must assess their readiness before undertaking research democratization.
-
•
Differentiating roles and responsibilities within research is crucial for successful implementation.
-
•
Non-researchers can significantly contribute to user insights but need guidance and structure.
-
•
Research operations management plays a vital role in coordinating and supporting research democratization efforts.
-
•
Establishing a clear measurement strategy and KPIs is essential for tracking the impact of research efforts.
-
•
Cultural buy-in is necessary to create a groundswell of support for user research initiatives.
-
•
Training and continuous development are vital for empowering non-researchers in the research process.
-
•
Creating a centralized repository for insights promotes knowledge sharing across the organization.
-
•
Effective communication of findings is key to ensuring research informs decision-making.
-
•
An integrated push and pull communication strategy enhances engagement with research insights.
Notable Quotes
"Democratizing research isn't something you can just pull off without cultural buy-in."
"Companies that succeed at democratizing research typically start from a reactive stage."
"There’s no one order you have to follow to begin democratization."
"Successful teams have dedicated individuals managing research operations."
"Non-researchers can play an essential role by contributing to insights gathering."
"It's important to ensure you’re not just doing research for its own sake."
"A well-defined research roadmap helps in executing insights-driven projects."
"Training must evolve as new research methods become available."
"The battle of great UX is effectively communicating what you've learned."
"Reports aren't always necessary for insights; findings can be documented in design documentation."
















More Videos

"The misconception that accessibility is unattractive only benefits a small group is incorrect; it improves experiences for everyone."
Samuel ProulxInvisible barriers: Why accessible service design can’t be an afterthought
December 3, 2024

"Live, listen, laugh, and learn while being open to transformation."
Victor UdoewaTheme One Intro
March 27, 2023

"The basics of our operations should focus more on obtaining results that align with the overall company strategy."
Gonzalo GoyanesDesign ROI: Cover a Little, Get a Lot
September 8, 2022

"The future of technology shouldn't rest solely on the ethics of individual designers."
Alexandra SchmidtWhy Ethics Can't Save Tech
November 18, 2022

"Designers with capital D: We are all designers in this together."
Jose CoronadoFrom Zero to Hero
September 8, 2022

"We need to redefine success criteria for our people."
Pippa LomasPaving the Path for Neurodiversity in Design
October 4, 2023

"This is a new space that we are all trying to figure out together."
Louis Rosenfeld Matt Jones Olga Khroustaleva Michael Leggett Karol MunozDo you want to work on climate? (Climate UX Discussion Series)
November 15, 2023

"The key is to align teams with business outcomes rather than project outputs."
Jeff GothelfThe Intersection of Lean and Design
January 10, 2019

"In organizations, the people are at the center of everything we're trying to evolve."
Dave GrayGroup Activity: Making Sense of DesignOps
November 7, 2017