Examining the Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on UX Research Practice Through UX Blogs

This study investigates the emerging effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the user experience research (UXR) practices by a systematic review of the grey literature focusing on remote UXR experiences. We reviewed 49 selected blog posts which share content about post-pandemic UXR experiences, and subjected them to content analysis. The findings show that the majority of the online discussions of the UXR community evolve around the types and methods of research with an apparent focus on moderated user research and user interviews. Equally common, step-by-step research methodology has been under scrutiny by the UXR professionals, such as concerns and practical tips regarding how research is planned, conducted, how findings are analysed and insights are generated based on the specific conditions of the pandemic. Other findings include debates and discussions about remote collaboration, trustworthiness of the research, wellbeing and empathy for others, and opportunities of remote UXR during the pandemic. In the light of the findings and the literature, we discuss the future long term effects of the 'new normal' on work life and UXR, and identify the potential paths to support diverse, effective, ethical and rigorous research practices.