Navigating AI: How UX Research Managers Are Adapting Their Teams in an AI-Driven Workforce

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is not the first technology to disrupt the workforce, but it is advancing faster than previous shifts and challenging tasks that have historically required human judgment. The UX research profession, a discipline centered on humans and their behavior, is no exception. Yet limited research exists on the perceptions of UX research leaders towards AI and their change management efforts in response to its rapid advancements. This study examines how UX research managers are adapting their teams' ways of working in response to AI's impact on the workforce, capturing their current actions and perceptions in real time. Ten UX research leaders participated in semi-structured interviews. The data was analyzed through thematic analysis and interpreted using Kotter's 8-Step Change Model as a theoretical change management framework. Three main findings resulted from this research: UX research leaders are reinforcing the value of UX research to drive product strategy, leaders are adopting AI with caution and intention, and leaders are prioritizing their teams' wellbeing and growth amid uncertainty. These findings document real-time perspectives and strategies of UX research leaders navigating AI, offering practical insights for UX researchers and leaders alike. As AI advancements continue to accelerate at an unprecedented rate, understanding how the future of the AI-driven workforce is being shaped by humans has never been more imperative.