As UX designers, we’re often praised for our creativity and problem-solving skills. But the truth is, our most impactful work doesn’t start with design—it starts with research.

Research is the foundation of every great user experience. It’s how we step into the shoes of our users, uncovering their needs, behaviors, and frustrations. Without it, we risk designing products based on assumptions rather than reality.

For me, research begins with curiosity. Why do users behave a certain way? What’s stopping them from achieving their goals? To answer these questions, I lean on methods like user interviews, surveys, usability testing, and competitive analysis. Each method offers unique insights, and the trick is knowing which one fits the problem you’re tackling.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that research isn’t about finding answers—it’s about asking better questions. For example, instead of asking, "What features should we add?" I focus on "What problems are users trying to solve?" This subtle shift leads to solutions that are more meaningful and user-centered.

But research isn’t just about collecting data; it’s about making sense of it. Patterns and insights start to emerge when you analyze the feedback, and these become the building blocks for design decisions. Visualizing findings with journey maps, personas, or affinity diagrams helps turn raw data into actionable steps.

The value of research goes beyond the design phase. Sharing findings with stakeholders can align the team and build a shared understanding of what success looks like. It’s not just about designing for users but designing with them in mind.

Finally, research is an ongoing process. Users change, technologies evolve, and markets shift. By keeping research at the heart of your workflow, you ensure that your designs stay relevant and impactful.

To me, UX research is a superpower. It’s what turns good design into great design by ensuring every decision is rooted in understanding. What’s your approach to research? I’d love to hear your thoughts!