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🗞 Why I’m Not Worried About My UX Job in the Era of AI

Jan Ahrend
Jan Ahrend
2 min read
Many UX researchers I know struggle with balancing research depth and practical impact. They often get lost in methodologies, neglecting how insights translate into real decisions. My favorite reads this week focus on setting realistic guardrails with synthetic users, knowing when enough evidence is enough, and shifting from checklists to conversations that truly understand users. If you want to make research more effective and aligned with your goals, read on to see how these perspectives can help you prioritize what matters.

Happy Researching, Jan 🙌

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📚 Articles of the Week

Why I’m Not Worried About My UX Job in the Era of AI
AI is a tool that can enhance UX research and design but won't replace core skills like understanding human behavior and asking the right questions. Focus on cultivating adaptable skills to integrate AI effectively. Raluca Budiu, 16 May 2025

ResearchOps Ramblings: Synthetic users and ‘realistic’ research
Synthetic users can aid in testing and practicing research skills, but should not replace real users due to ethical, reliability, and realism concerns. Research ops must set guardrails and consider ethical and environmental impacts. Jessica Lewes, 16 May 2025

Integrating Research
Prioritize insights based on impact rather than evidence volume; even single-customer findings can be valuable. Balance quick decision-making with the strategic importance of qualitative and limited-evidence insights. Jake Burghardt, 16 May 2025

UX Research Isn’t a Checklist — It’s a Conversation
Shift from asking for answers to understanding user stories through genuine conversation. Focus on listening, observing emotional cues, and asking open-ended questions to foster empathy and improve design insights. Rashi Garg, 16 May 2025

Integrating Research
High research maturity organizations still waste insights without operational practices. To improve, embed research into planning, report findings effectively, and tie insights directly to product and business goals. Jake Burghardt, 16 May 2025

How to Choose the Right Statistical Method for Your UX Research Problem
Select research methods based on your question and design structure. Incorporate effect sizes, Bayesian techniques, and machine learning for deeper insights, while considering sample size and study goals for effective results. Bahareh Jozranjbar, 16 May 2025

Evolving a design research ecosystem: Lessons from design thinking (and birds)
Connecting through empathy, collaboration, and adaptation enhances research ecosystems. Focus on authentic relationships, broad stakeholder engagement, and flexible practices to evolve and thrive amidst change. Graham Gardner, 16 May 2025


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🎥 Video of the Week

The Future of User Research in Product Strategy
Discover how user research is shaping the future of product strategy in a conversation with Product School CEO Carlos Gonzalez de Villaumbrosia and User Interviews CEO Basel Faki. CEO at User Interviews, 16 May 2025


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🔉 Audio of the Week

How Marcus Got Hired as a UX Researcher After Six Months of Rejection
On overcoming UX job search rejection and strategies for success. Identify improvements in your portfolio, networking, and interview prep to increase hiring chances. Sarah Doody, 16 May 2025 | Spotify


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🗓 UserCalendar.com: Upcoming Events.

How AI Is Reshaping the Repository Journey
June 4 @ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm EST
Research repositories are transforming with AI, enhancing collaboration, discovery, and sharing for UX researchers. Learn more

The ROI Framework for Research Teams
May 29 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm EDT
Join UX research expert Trevor Calabro and Great Question CEO Ned Dwyer as they explore a tactical 5-step framework for calculating the ROI of UX research, helping teams across roles and industries link research efforts to business outcomes and build stronger cases for their work. Learn more