Originally posted on uxtools.co I recently wrote about what I learned from interviews with software engineers about their needs from UX research. In those same interviews, I uncovered several insights about managing feedback from engineers. Designers and developers have much in common. We’re two of the most creative groups in…

Insights from interviews with software engineers about how user research helps them create better experiences. — Originally posted on uxtools.co User research isn’t only for designers. Research insights make teams and companies successful by helping them focus and deliver real value. Software developers and engineers, for example, are often a group who is overlooked when considering user research. …

Originally posted on uxtools.co After exerting all the effort of observing real human behavior, don’t let your valuable insights go to waste. If you have interviewed, tested, and mapped your way around a problem, what do you do next? How can you ensure you realize the outcomes of your research? …

I’ve reviewed hundreds of UX portfolios over the years as a hiring manager and as someone who enjoys building portfolios. In one instance, I was hiring and job searching at the same time. While reviewing candidates’ portfolios I was also sharing my case studies with employers to find a new…

Insights from interviews with 20 designers who made the switch. — “The decision sure didn’t come easy. I put in a ton of hours to make sure it was going to be a worthwhile career change. I look forward to where this career will take me!” That was said by Mike, one of the 20 designers I interviewed about switching careers…

UX designers don’t work in isolation, so collaboration and communication are vital skills. Communication is one of the most underrated skills for a UX designer. I believe the very beginning of a project is the best time to establish that communication. Assuming a team has already chosen its next project…

Originally published on uxtools.co Our industry spent decades convincing organizations that UX research was worthwhile. Why would we ever dare to skip it? Let’s reframe that question. We shouldn’t skip research. Projects that don’t rely on some sort of research insights are very unlikely to succeed. A better question could…