Design Researcher vs. ux researcher: What Are the Differences?

Design research and UX research are both essential for product development. By understanding users, designers can create products that are not only functional but also appealing to customers. While design research and UX research share some similarities, there are several key differences between the two. In this article, we discuss the similarities and differences between design research and UX research and offer tips for pursuing a career in either field.

What is a Design Researcher?

Design Researchers conduct research to inform the design of products, services, or user interfaces. They use a variety of qualitative and quantitative research methods to understand user needs, behaviors, and motivations. Design Researchers work closely with designers, product managers, and other stakeholders to ensure that research findings are integrated into the design process. They may also be responsible for creating and maintaining user research documentation, such as user personas and journey maps. Design Researchers typically have a background in human-centered design, psychology, sociology, or anthropology.

What is an UX Researcher?

UX Researchers work to improve the user experience of a product by conducting research and testing to understand how users interact with and feel about a product. They use a variety of techniques, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and usability testing, to collect data. They then analyze this data to identify patterns and trends that can be used to inform product design and development. UX Researchers work closely with UX Designers and other members of the product development team to ensure that the user experience of a product is as positive as possible.

Design Researcher vs. UX Researcher

Here are the main differences between a design researcher and an UX researcher.

Job Duties

Design researchers and ux researchers share some job duties, such as conducting research with users to identify pain points in a product. They may also perform tasks related to each stage of the design process, such as ideation, brainstorming and wireframing.

UX researchers typically focus more on user experience, while design researchers often concentrate on the look and feel of a product. For example, a ux researcher might study how users interact with different buttons and suggest changes that could improve their experience. A design researcher might examine images of a proposed interface and evaluate its aesthetic appeal.

Job Requirements

Design researchers typically need a bachelor’s degree in design, human factors, psychology or another related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree or higher. Additionally, many design researchers pursue certifications through the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) or the International Association of User Experience Professionals (IAUXP). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use research software and other tools they might need on the job.

UX researchers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, human factors, psychology or another related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree or higher. Additionally, many UX researchers pursue certifications through the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) or the International Association of User Experience Professionals (IAUXP). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use research software and other tools they might need on the job.

Work Environment

UX researchers typically work in an office setting, often collaborating with UX designers and other team members to create user-friendly products. They may also travel to meet with users or conduct research remotely. Design researchers usually work in a studio environment, where they can focus on the creative aspects of their projects. These professionals may also travel to meet with clients or attend conferences.

Skills

Design researchers and UX researchers both use similar skills to perform their jobs, such as problem-solving, critical thinking and analytical skills. They also need to be able to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally, in order to present their findings to clients or colleagues. However, there are some key differences between the two roles.

Design researchers typically have a background in design, which gives them a strong understanding of design principles and how to apply them to research projects. They also tend to be more creative in their approach to research, often using qualitative methods to gather data. UX researchers, on the other hand, usually have a background in psychology or human-computer interaction. This gives them a strong understanding of how people interact with technology and how to design user interfaces that are user-friendly. They also tend to use more quantitative methods in their research.

Salary

The average salary for a design researcher is $90,627 per year, while the average salary for a UX researcher is $112,899 per year. The average salary for both positions may vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.