What Is a UX Researcher?

What Is UX Research?

UX Research is a technical pathway or an approach adapted to deeply understand the user's demands whenever they utilize any system, product, or service. UX Research is a pattern of studying the users' attachment to any product or service and constantly upgrading the same for better user usage.

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UX Research Methods and Approaches

As UX Research relies on understanding the users' mentality towards a product or a service, multiple methods and approaches have been adopted to gain the best output of the research. Here let us dig through the various research methods for a logically successful analysis.

A. Quantitative Research Methods

As the name itself suggests, quantitative research methods depend on the quantity of data being used. Quantitative research involves collecting and analyzing the mass of data, numbers, and statistical values obtained through user tests.

The quantitative method is applied in most cases to interpret the range of usability of the product or service. This method will also help identify how much a product stays compared to its competitive products. The quantitative method itself further classified into various strategies as follows:

1. Analytics

Analytics is a quantitative approach that deals with data collection like the number of visits by a user to a website, duration on a site, words scrolling down, etc. The best-known analytics platform is Google Analytics. From this information, the UX researchers can conclude the trafficking of a site, trends of any product, etc.,

2. Mouse Mapping

The mouse mapping technique is a methodology where the user's action on a particular website can be mapped to identify the valuable and futile parts of a website.

The movement of the user will explain the parts that are being ignored and being of great activity, which will help the UX researchers to finalize the usability of a particular site.

3. Funnel Analysis

Funnel analysis will help UX researchers to identify the range up to which the user can access a website. It shows how many users happen to cross through all steps in a website to get something done.

Analyzing this data will form a funnel-shaped plot, starting from the first point broad and narrowing down to the final point.

4. User Testing

User testing is a more direct approach where the users are directly involved in giving feedback about the product or the service. Much user feedback is collected, and the data is processed to identify the part of the defect if any. It will help UX researchers to develop any product towards a better end.

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B. Qualitative Research Methods

Qualitative research methods are antagonists in technique to quantitative research methods. In qualitative research, the information collected is non-numerical, like comments, opinions, behavioral patterns, etc., 

This research method focuses more on understanding every individual user rather than concentrating on a group of users.

There are, again, multiple qualitative approaches, and here are a few.

1. Grounded Theory Approach

The grounded theory is an approach where the view is hypothesized after examining the non-numerical data obtained from the users as opinions, comments, or whatever.

The grounded theory approach will work by plotting out the user's thinking through their feedback.

2. Card Sorting

Card sorting is another relatively simple technique. The users are provided with a set of cards that involve specific topics or concepts or categories and asked to sort them out based on their opinion.

The order of sorting will reveal the order of experience the user expects from a particular product. Hence, it will help the UX researcher develop a module that satisfies the user's expectations.

3. Surveys

Surveys are a widespread type of qualitative approach, and surveys will help understand the idea of the user precisely in their words or comments. 

Surveys gather the users' expectations in the form of data, and UX researchers can process this data to design a better user-friendly product.

4. Interviews

Interviews are a much better qualitative approach because the users are individually assessed. The data obtained through interviews are very reliable as they don't have any error opinions.

What Qualifications Do You Need to be a UX Researcher?

Now that you know what is a UX researcher, let us look at all the qualifications you need to become one. To become a UX researcher, you usually need an undergraduate degree, but it doesn’t have to be directly related to UX. Fields like computer science, psychology, design, or even anthropology can all be good options. 

Many researchers come from varied backgrounds and find their way into UX later. If your degree isn’t in a related field, don’t worry, you can still build the right skills through other learning experiences and practical work.

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What Does a UX Researcher Do?

UX researchers hold many roles and responsibilities, and UX researchers are expected to have specific skills and knowledge. Here are the tasks of UX researchers.

Tasks and Responsibilities of UX Researchers

1. Collect data for research.
2. Design approach to collect data.
3. Reach out to the users for data collection.
4. Analyze the data recruited.
5. Develop insights out of the data.
6. Device plans for product development with the research output.

A UX researcher is responsible for understanding user behaviors, needs, and motivations using a variety of research methods. This position entails conducting interviews, surveys, usability tests, and analyzing user data to help inform and guide design decisions.

For those looking to advance their careers in this field, attending a UI Design Bootcamp can be extremely beneficial. These bootcamps typically cover a wide range of topics, such as user-centered design principles, usability testing, and data analysis, all of which are essential skills for a UX researcher.

Essential UX Skills and Tools

1. Analysis Skills

The first and foremost part of being a UX researcher is analyzing the data provided. So, analysis skills are essential for a UX researcher, and they must be able to interpret the data thoroughly.

2. Empathizing Skills

The UX researcher must empathize to understand the users' feelings and behavior and be able to put themselves in the users' shoes to get a clear view of the data collected from the user.

3. Passion

Passion is very Essential for this job because only with passion will the researcher be able to get deep into the user's point of view.

Passion for this job will help the researcher to develop unique techniques to understand the user mentality.

4. Ideating Skill

The UX researcher must be outstanding in creating new ideas and techniques. This is very Essential in this job as it will help to make a clear picture of the user data.

5. Team Playing Skill

A UX researcher needs to be a team player, and this is because it will enable them to take inputs from other researchers and implement them to get accurate results.

Other Roles in UI/UX

There are various other roles under the roof of UI/UX, as follows:

1. UX Writer
2. UX designer
3. UI designer
4. UX manager
5. UX strategies

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What Are the Benefits of UX Research?

1. UX Research will provide a penetrative perception of the utility of the product by the users.
2. With its insight, UX Research will help develop successful and enhanced products and services.
3. UX Research will be a cost-efficient approach as it gives a clear view of the user's needs.
4. UX Research reveals the negative aspects of a product as well
5. UX Research helps efficient product development with its inputs.

Best Practices to Conduct UX Research

• Mark the Target Audience

The best technique in UX Research involves demarcating the target audience. It is vital to select the same group of the target audience as it has a significant impact on the outcome of the research.

• Jot Down the Stage of Research

It is always advisable to divide the UX research into multiple phases as follows:

1. Strategizing
2. Reaching out
3. Collecting data
4. Analyzing
5. Results

• Small Study

Small study groups of users will always provide more accurate data than involving a large number of people.

Is UX Research the Same as User Research?

User research and UX research might sound like the same thing, but they’re not exactly identical. User research is a broader approach aimed at understanding who your users are, what they do, and how they behave. 

On the other hand, UX research dives deeper, specifically exploring how users interact with a particular product or platform, focusing on their experiences and feelings about it. Both types of research are all about getting to know your audience better to make user-focused design decisions, but UX research has a more targeted focus on the product itself.

Related Read: What’s the Difference Between UI and UX Design?

What are Some Examples of UX Research?

Here are some practical examples of UX research techniques to consider:

• A/B Testing

A/B testing lets you compare two versions of a design to see which one clicks better with users. It’s a handy way to find out if changes really make a difference.

• Prototype or Wireframe Testing

Testing designs in the early stages is like catching issues before they become real headaches. It helps you fine-tune the details before putting out the final product.

• Card Sorting

This technique lets users organize content in a way that feels natural to them. It’s a useful trick for figuring out how to structure information so it makes sense to your audience.

• User Interviews

Talking to users directly can be a game-changer. You get firsthand insights into what they need, what frustrates them, and how they actually use your product.

• Tree Testing

Tree testing shows if your navigation is user-friendly. Users try to find information, and you see if the structure helps them get there quickly or leaves them confused.

• 5-Second Testing

You flash a design at users for just five seconds and then ask for their first impressions. It’s a quick way to check if your design's look and feel grabs attention.

• Usability Testing

Watching users interact with your product is an eye-opener. It shows what’s working and what’s not, revealing areas where the user experience can improve.

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How to Become a UX Researcher?

Get a Degree in Human or Behavioral Science

As UX Research is closely Related to understanding the users' behavior, feelings, expectations, etc., it is desirable to get a degree related to human or behavioral science, say,

1. Psychology
2. Biology
3. Physiology
4. Artificial intelligence 

Develop User Research Skills

User Research, as explained earlier, requires many skills. Some of the skills listed here will help you become a UX researcher.

1. Learn to conduct surveys
2. Have hands-on training about the Google Analytics 
3. Engage in UX Research programs
4. Practice using data analysis tools like Matlab, Simulink, etc.,

Gain User Research Experience

It is significantly necessary to gain UX research experience, and this can be done by 

1. Involving in surveys conducted by other UX platforms.
2. Joining the team of any non-profitable organization and conducting research.
3. Participate in any UX research contests available online.

Develop Your Portfolio

Once you cross through the above three steps, creating an innovative portfolio that impresses recruiters is time. List the skills you possess to be a UX researcher. Include the projects that come to terms with UX research. Register your portfolio on various job websites like Upwork, Fiverr, LinkedIn, and so on.

Grow Your Network

Finally, it is crucial to expand your circle. Try coming in contact with people in the Ux Research profession. This can be done via LinkedIn and many more platforms.

Networking will help you improve and reach out to a good position. Adding to these steps, enrolling in a comprehensive UI/UX Design Course can significantly bolster your understanding and skills in both user interface and user experience design, providing a well-rounded foundation for a career in UX research."

Why Pursue a Career as a UX Researcher?

UX Researcher Salary

Recent research states that a UX Researcher's salary ranges from 10 Lakhs per annum for a beginner to 30 Lakhs per annum for a senior UX Research analyst. The average salary in the US is expected to be $ 100,778.

Job Outlook

The position of UX researcher stays among the 100 best jobs listed by CNNMoney. This job seems to have progressed tremendously in the past decade and would be a high-earning occupation in the near future.

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Is UX Research a Good Career?

With the proliferation of the digital world, the need for professionals who can make the user experience better and richer also increases. As companies are investing more and more into creating their products in an easier to use way, the demand for UX researchers only increases. If you like problem-solving activities and are a technophile who seeks to understand how people embrace technology, the world of UX research is definitely for you.

UX Researcher vs. UX Designer

The UX researcher is supposed to come in contact with users, collect opinions and form data, interpret the information and provide suggestions on the development of the product.

The UX designers take up the inputs provided by the UX researchers and implement them to design a user-friendly product. 

How to Build a Network Within the UX Research Industry?

Current Co-Workers

If you are already in the UX Research platforms, try expanding the circle by contacting your co-workers. Discuss more often and gain details from the senior co-workers.

Future Employers

Try finding out the future employers on job platforms and social media like LinkedIn, Twitter, Upwork, etc., 

Upload your portfolio and invite people in the same field for discussions on those social media platforms.

Online UX Communities

Join online UX Communities available on social media platforms. Here are a few for your reference:

1. Give Good UX company to a friend- Facebook 
2. UX Researchers Association- Facebook
3. User Experience Design- LinkedIn 

UX Research Organizations

Join UX Research Organizations like 

1. Mixed Methods
2. Designer Hangout
3. Hexagon UX

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Conclusion

Hope this article on what is a UX researcher was able to give you a thorough understanding about what is a UX researcher and what are the different career perspectives of the UI UX design domain. If you are looking to strengthen your UX research skills further, we would recommend you check Simplilearn’s UI UX Bootcamp which will help you enhance your skills and make you a skilled UX researcher.

FAQs

1. What are the basics of UX research?

At its core, UX research is about understanding what users need and want. This involves methods like interviews, surveys, and usability testing to gather insights about how users interact with products. The ultimate goal is to use these insights to create better, user-centered designs.

2. Is UX research hard?

UX research can be a bit challenging, but it’s also very rewarding. It requires a mix of analytical skills, empathy, and creativity to truly understand user behavior. While mastering different research methods and turning findings into actionable insights takes time, anyone can do it with practice and persistence.

3. What is a UX researcher's job?

A UX researcher’s role centers on understanding users to enhance product design. They conduct studies, collect and analyze data, and share their findings to guide design choices. Ultimately, they aim to create user-friendly experiences that resonate with people and meet their needs.

4. Do UX researchers get paid well?

Yes, UX researchers generally earn good salaries. Compensation often reflects their skills and experience, along with the high demand for their expertise. While salaries can vary based on location and industry, the field tends to offer competitive pay.

5. Is UX research in high demand?

With an increasing focus on user-centered design in the digital world, the need for UX researchers is on the rise. Companies are recognizing how crucial it is to understand their users, which is creating more job opportunities in this field.

6. Does UX research require coding?

UX research doesn’t typically require coding skills. While having a basic understanding of technology can be helpful, the main focus is on exploring user behavior and experiences. Researchers primarily rely on qualitative and quantitative methods to gather and analyze data.