Nikki Anderson: The Value of User Research & Building Better Product Experiences | Pulse by Intuji #29
In this insightful episode of Pulse by Intuji, Julian Wallis speaks with Nikki Anderson, an experienced user researcher with over a decade in the field. As the founder of her own consultancy and content platform for researchers, Nikki shares valuable perspectives on the importance of user research in product development, how to deliver value through research, and techniques for maintaining stakeholder engagement.
Whether you're a product manager, UX professional, or business leader, this episode offers practical wisdom on making research more effective and impactful for your organisation.
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 - Podcast Intro
Episode Highlights & Guest Background
00:01:26 - Introduction
Julian introduces Nikki Anderson and her background in user research.
00:05:03 - Foundational Research Value
Discussion on the importance of understanding user needs beyond your own perspective.
00:07:20 - Customer vs. User Research
Exploring terminology differences and finding shared alignment.
00:11:17 - Proving Research Value
How researchers can confidently demonstrate their value without constantly having to justify their role.
00:17:32 - Stakeholder Management
Handling stakeholders who believe they already know their users and customers.
00:23:49 - Approaching New B2B Product Research
Strategies for setting up effective discovery research within business constraints.
00:37:06 - Maintaining Research Momentum
Creative techniques for keeping stakeholders engaged throughout the research process.
00:42:00 - Common Research Mistakes
Discussion on scope creep and the importance of asking the right questions.
00:46:53 - Future Perspective & Career Advice
Nikki shares thoughts on business innovation and personal career insights.
Key Takeaways from this Episode:

• How to expand perspective beyond your immediate assumptions through user research
• Techniques for conducting efficient and effective discovery research
• Strategies for making research engaging and fun for stakeholders
• The importance of understanding business metrics to drive research impact
• Why researchers need confidence in their inherent value to organisations

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