Research Through Broken Lenses The Need to ‘Shift Left’ in UX Research
summary
Argues that accessibility must shift left so disabled people join generative studies, not only final usability tests, and that including them early prevents wasted builds and “disability dongles.” Recommends foundational research (contextual inquiry, diary studies, prototype walkthroughs) to surface if the planned product is even the right solution, cites prevalence estimates (~1 in 4 adults), warns research may reveal systemic barriers, and gives practical recruiting tips like snowball sampling and vendors (e.g., ANOWBILITY).
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chapters (21)
- 0:00Introduction
- 1:30UX Research
- 8:12Engaging Disabled Participants
- 13:47Conducting Foundational Research
- 14:57Leadership BuyIn
- 16:15Disability
- 18:53Time
- 19:54Risks
- 22:01Is This Accessible
- 22:53How to Fix Our Lenses
- 23:57Simulation or Inclusion
- 25:42Examples of Ableism
- 28:01Models of Disability
- 30:14Avoid a Savior Complex
- 32:13Practice Active Listening
- 33:21Key Takeaways
- 33:53Making Good True Progress
- 36:42References
- 38:18Stay Connected
- 41:49Small Numbers
- 45:51Building Relationships
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