As a seasoned UX researcher, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of the UX landscape since 2019. One area that has particularly piqued my interest is the NO or very less intersection of “industry” and “academia” in user research.

This blog post aims to explore this fascinating nexus, shedding light on how these two realms can collaborate to advance the field of UX research.

Lets begin by understanding….

1 – The Split of UX Research

UX research diverges at the intersection of industry and academia. Both contribute significantly to the field of UX, but they operate with distinct goals, methodologies, and challenges. It’s not just the terminology or working style; it’s the entire approach to tackling UX-related challenges.

In my experience, the industry focuses on practical applications of recommendations, investing heavily in understanding users’ needs and improving product design, and often prioritizing business gains. In contrast, academia is driven by the pursuit of knowledge but faces challenges such as the lack of real application of solutions and examples, limited funds, time constraints, and insufficient mentor guidance. Academic research often emphasizes outdated theoretical frameworks, which may not always yield tangible results in UX research.

Bridging the Gap

The key to navigating the UX nexus lies in bridging the gap between industry and academia. This involves leveraging the strengths of both realms to create a holistic approach to UX research.

The Role of UX Researchers

As UX researchers, we play a crucial role in this process. Our unique position allows us to straddle both worlds, applying academic theories to practical problems and bringing industry insights back to academia. This reciprocal relationship fosters innovation and advances the field of UX research.

The Power of Collaboration

Collaboration is another essential element in bridging the gap. By fostering partnerships between industry and academia, we can facilitate the exchange of ideas and promote a more integrated approach to UX research.

The Future of UX Research

Looking ahead, several trends are set to shape the future of UX research. Remote user research is becoming the norm, virtual whiteboarding is bringing more people to the table, and the big virtual reality push means more avatars and 3D visualizations. As UX researchers, we must stay abreast of these trends and adapt our methodologies accordingl.

Conclusion

Navigating the UX nexus is no easy task. It requires a deep understanding of both industry and academia, a willingness to collaborate, and the ability to adapt to changing trends. However, the rewards are well worth the effort. By bridging the gap between industry and academia, we can drive innovation, enhance user experiences, and ultimately, advance the field of UX research.

References

1 – Chiu, Y. (2023). Bridging the gap between academia and the EdTech industry. UX of EdTech.

2 – Built In. (2022). 11 UX and Web Design Trends to Watch in 2022.