Summary
In this episode of the Product Coalition Podcast, host Jay Stansel speaks with Anna Bello-Elliott, a seasoned user experience researcher, about the critical role of research in product management. They discuss the challenges product managers face in determining when research is necessary, the signs that indicate a need for deeper understanding of customer needs, and the importance of risk management in product decisions. Anna shares her insights on how to evaluate the necessity of research, the emotional attachments that can cloud judgment, and the evolving role of AI in the research process. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration between product and research teams to create effective solutions that meet user needs.
Takeaways
Product managers face pressure from multiple directions.
Research is essential for understanding customer needs.
Identifying risks is crucial in product development.
Teams should ask critical questions before proceeding.
Emotional attachments can hinder effective research.
AI tools can enhance research efficiency.
Collaboration between product and research is vital.
Research should inform product strategy and planning.
Understanding user needs is a continuous process.
Real-world applications of research lead to impactful products.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Product Research Challenges
02:24 Understanding the Need for Research
06:53 Identifying Signs for Research Necessity
09:40 Evaluating Risks in Product Decisions
12:05 Research Matrix: When to Conduct Research
15:44 Emotional Attachments and Research
19:22 The Role of AI in Research
21:58 Future of Research and Product Management
25:21 Integrating Research into Product Planning
28:56 Real-World Impact of Research
