When I first encountered affinity mapping, I was struck by its simplicity and power. It’s a method that turns chaos into clarity, helping teams uncover patterns in user data that might otherwise remain hidden. If you’re looking to elevate your UX research and strategy, mastering affinity mapping is a game-changer. It’s not just about organizing notes on a wall; it’s about unlocking insights that drive smarter design decisions and measurable business value. Let’s dive into how

When I first dove into the world of UX, I quickly realized it’s more than just making things look pretty. It’s about crafting meaningful interactions that resonate with users and drive business success. If you’re aiming to build or scale effective UX research practices, understanding the basics of UX design is crucial. It’s the foundation that supports data-driven decisions and measurable improvements in user satisfaction. Let’s explore the core principles, practical strateg

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader Finding the balance between business goals, time, and user understanding. 💬 Introduction: The Art of Choosing the Right Method One of the most common questions I hear from teams is, “What’s the right research method for this project?” It’s a fair question — but there’s rarely a single right answer.Choosing the right UX research method is part science, part art. It depends on what you need to know , how quickly you need to know it , and

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader How studying people taught me how to lead them. 💬 Introduction: UX Research Leadership Lessons Hidden in Research Sessions UX Research Leadership didn’t come to me through an MBA program, a management seminar, or a job title. It came through research sessions  — hours of listening, observing, and learning how people think, feel, and behave. Over time, I realized the same principles that make a great UX researcher also make a great leade

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader How humility, listening, and empowerment create stronger research cultures. 💬 Introduction: Leadership That Starts With Service In UX research, leadership isn’t about titles, control, or visibility — it’s about service.The most effective leaders I’ve met weren’t the loudest voices in the room; they were the ones who listened the deepest. Servant leadership shifts the center of gravity from “How can my team serve me?”  to “How can I serv

By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader By Philip Burgess – UX Research Leader 📧 phil@philipburgess.net  | 🌐 www.philipburgess.net Understanding the Foundation: What Is UX Research Card Sorting? Card sorting has been a cornerstone of UX research and information architecture (IA) for decades. It’s a deceptively simple method—participants group related concepts or “cards” into categories that make sense to them.The outcome?A clearer understanding of how users mentally organize

Stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of UX research. Discover the top 5 trends that will shape the industry in 2025, from AI-powered insights to continuous user feedback.

When it comes to building a user experience that truly resonates, the tools we choose can make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how the right UX research platforms can transform raw data into actionable insights. These platforms are not just about collecting information; they are about empowering teams to make smarter, data-driven decisions that elevate the entire product journey. So, what makes a UX research platform stand out? Let’s dive in. Why UX Re

Philip Burgess – UX Research Leader Exploring AI + UX Research to shape better human experiences Why Strategy Matters in UX Research UX research is more than usability tests and surveys—it’s a strategic function that shapes how organizations understand customers and make decisions. Without a clear strategy, research risks becoming a series of disconnected projects that struggle to influence product direction. A strong UX research strategy ensures that insights are relevant, t