Coexisting with non-researchers: Practical strategies for a democratized research future

Key Insights

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  Forming a cross-disciplinary 'customer team' with diverse roles breaks down silos and aligns internal perspectives around real user needs.

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  Field research involving direct user observation, like riding in tractors, reveals true user goals and pain points beyond assumptions.

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  Research’s impact is about shaping team thinking and collective understanding rather than just delivering insights.

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  The traditional model where researchers own research is fading; research is now a collective, continuous, and democratized activity.

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  Balancing risk and confidence helps decide when research is necessary, preventing research from becoming a bottleneck.

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  Researchers gain influence not by authority but through building helpful, respectful relationships and facilitating collaboration.

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  Understanding and aligning with current business objectives is critical alongside user needs to deliver recognizable business value.

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  Visual artifacts like mental models and scenario maps help create shared understanding across product, support, and engineering.

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  Depersonalizing conversations about research findings reduces conflict and keeps focus on achieving the right outcomes.

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  The future of research includes AI automation, cross-functional participation, and shifting from gatekeeping to guiding decisions.

Notable Quotes