How to Write UX Research Case Studies When Work Is Under NDA

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader

Writing UX research case studies is a key skill for any designer or researcher. They showcase your problem-solving abilities, your process, and your impact. But what happens when your work is protected by a non-disclosure agreement (NDA)? Sharing details can feel impossible, yet you still want to demonstrate your expertise. I’ve faced this challenge many times, and I’ll share practical ways to create compelling case studies without breaking confidentiality.

Blurry UX research document on laptop screen

UX Research Case Studies: Understand What You Can Share

The first step is to clarify what your NDA allows. NDAs vary widely. Some forbid sharing any project details, while others permit high-level descriptions without revealing sensitive data. If you’re unsure, ask your legal team or client for guidance. Knowing your boundaries upfront saves time and avoids risks.

Once you know the limits, focus on what you can share:

• Your role and responsibilities without naming the client or product

• The research methods you used (interviews, surveys, usability tests)

• The problems you aimed to solve in general terms

• Your process and approach without specific data or screenshots

• The impact or outcomes in broad terms (e.g., improved user satisfaction)

  
  

This approach keeps your case study informative while respecting confidentiality.

Use Anonymized and Generalized Examples

When you can’t name the client or product, anonymize details. Replace specific names with generic terms like “a financial app” or “an e-commerce platform.” Avoid mentioning exact numbers or proprietary features.

For example, instead of:

“I conducted usability testing on the checkout flow of XYZ Bank’s mobile app, which led to a 20% drop in cart abandonment.”

Try:

“I conducted usability testing on a mobile banking app’s checkout flow, which helped reduce user drop-off during purchase.”

This keeps the story clear but protects sensitive information.

Focus on Your Process and Skills

Clients and employers want to see how you think and work. When you can’t share exact results, emphasize your research process:

• How you planned and recruited participants

• The research methods you chose and why

• How you analyzed data and identified insights

• How you collaborated with designers, product managers, or engineers

• How you communicated findings and influenced decisions

  
  

Use storytelling to make your process engaging. For example, describe a challenge you faced during research and how you overcame it. This shows problem-solving skills and adaptability.

Create Hypothetical or Composite Case Studies

If your NDA is very strict, consider creating a hypothetical case study based on your experience. Combine elements from multiple projects into one story that illustrates your skills without revealing confidential details.

Make sure to clarify that the case study is a composite or hypothetical example. This honesty builds trust with your audience.

Use Visuals Carefully

Visuals make case studies more engaging, but they can also reveal sensitive information. Avoid screenshots of real products or data. Instead, create abstract diagrams, flowcharts, or wireframes that illustrate your process without specifics.

For example, a flowchart showing your research steps or a wireframe representing a generic user interface can add clarity without risk.

Hand-drawn UX research flowchart on paper

Highlight Soft Skills and Impact

When you can’t share detailed metrics, focus on soft skills and qualitative impact:

• How your research improved team understanding of users

• How you helped prioritize features based on user needs

• How you fostered collaboration between stakeholders

• How your insights influenced product direction

  
  

Use quotes or feedback from colleagues or clients if possible, but anonymize them.

Keep Your Writing Clear and Engaging

Even with limited details, your case study should be easy to read and interesting. Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and clear headings. Avoid jargon and explain research terms simply.

Tell a story that guides the reader through your work. Start with the problem, describe your approach, share key insights, and end with the impact. This structure works well even when details are vague.

Final Thoughts

Writing UX research case studies under NDA is challenging but doable. Focus on what you can share: your role, methods, process, and impact in general terms. Use anonymized examples, hypothetical stories, and abstract visuals to protect confidentiality. Highlight your skills and how you contribute to better products.

By approaching case studies this way, you build a strong portfolio that respects legal boundaries and still shows your value as a UX researcher. If you’re unsure about what to share, always check with your legal team or client first.