Summary
Did you know that the terms "bureaucracy" and "information worker" were both invented by sociologists, long before either thing existed? Did you know that the 2008 crash was accurately predicted by an anthropologist? Many people don't realize that social research drives robust foresight. This is the kind of value even a very junior UX researcher can contribute. In this talk, Sam Ladner will describe how researchers can sift and track weak signals, how to create trend reports, and how to predict areas of change.
Key Insights
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Confidence is key for UX researchers to lead and make impactful predictions.
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Understanding weak signals is essential for detecting changes in technology and society.
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Historical contexts can provide important insights into current trends and future forecasts.
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Standardization of mundane objects can trigger significant organizational and social changes.
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Practitioners should be vigilant about cultural differences affecting research findings.
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Utilizing multiple methods for data analysis enhances the rigor of foresight practices.
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Regular scanning and sorting of information leads to better insights and future readiness.
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Strategic foresight frameworks can help researchers organize their thoughts and predictions effectively.
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Reflexivity in research is crucial to reduce bias and improve outcomes.
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It's important to be prepared for being 'too early' in spotting trends; persistence is valuable.
Notable Quotes
"This talk is about building confidence to lead and have a seat at the table."
"It's not about listening to stakeholders; it's about developing your craft."
"Some of the most mundane objects can signal change."
"Technical change isn't just about gadgets; it's also about social practices."
"Rigor isn't just following the scientific method, it's explaining why you made certain choices."
"The future tends not to talk about the future, but allows us to create multiple futures."
"Know why you made choices in your research; that's what rigor is."
"Be courageous and keep your intellectual powder dry; you may be too early but that's okay."
"Regularly scanning and organizing information can lead to critical insights."
"By combining social, technological, and economic changes, you can predict significant events like the 2008 crash."
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