Leadership thinks user research slows the team down. How would you convince them to invest in it?
What the interviewer wants to hear
- Speak in business terms: risk, cost of rework, revenue
- Show examples where research saved time or money
- Start small with fast, low-cost research
- Make findings visible and tied to decisions and metrics
Model answer
I would not argue about research in general. I would talk in business terms. Building the wrong thing is the slowest path of all, so research is really a way to reduce risk and rework. I would look for a recent example, such as a feature that took two months to build and had low usage, and estimate what it cost. Then I would propose a small experiment: lightweight research that fits inside the normal sprint, like five quick tests on a prototype before development starts. When those tests find a serious problem early, I would share it with a short clip and the estimated engineering time saved. Over time I would link research to decisions and outcomes, like improved conversion. Leaders support research when they see it makes the team faster and more successful.
Can you answer it under time pressure?
Take a timed hard round and get scored on every answer.
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