In-Person UX Research, Metrics & AI: Lessons from Joel Barr | UXR Geeks Field Notes
UX Research GeeksShow Notes
In this field notes episode, Petra Rajkov reflects on her conversation with Joel Barr and outlines the lessons she is applying to her own user research practice. She examines why getting out into the field and observing users in their own environment remains key for teams building software, which business metrics demonstrate the research value better than CSAT and NPS, and why she shares Joel's view that AI can support researchers but should not replace the people at the center of the work.
To hear the full discussion, watch episode 76 of UXR Geeks with Joel Barr: https://youtu.be/MqtCH-6Ab9E?si=oNBHMhXo4CpKFCz6
Chapters: 00:00 The warehouse interface nobody used 01:58 Get out into the field 03:15 Choose the right metrics to prove your worth 04:08 Don’t replace users with AI 05:49 Petra's conclusions
📚 Related reading: - UXtweak meta-analysis of synthetic participants: https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9057643/v1_covered_9dfd9a10-c893-490f-b28d-cceb2180ed9c.pdf?c=1773733359 - UXtweak research on AI moderation in usability testing: https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2025/02/human-centered-design-ai-assisted-usability-testing/
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