SXSW 2025

LEGO, Theater, Sushi & Other Unconventional Research Methods

Description:

How might LEGOs help us access subconscious beliefs? What could we learn from people pretending to be omniscient robots? Could a sushi chef really hold the key to creating a groundbreaking new tech product? Unconventional research methods can shape tech products in incredibly impactful ways. Insights from such studies have inspired Google Search's designers and leaders to imagine different possibilities and solutions—crucial for any product team, but especially when the team manages a 25+ year-old product.

Other Resources / Information

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1-Ts3NiU3Q4uLj-IykV_C7s631Y4DJD0Ievc2dMlYMRE/edit#slide=id.g2f00fe35f50_0_610

Takeaways

  1. DON'T MAKE $#!T UP. There's a fine line between brilliance and BS—straddle that line carefully, and create structures that ground you.
  2. PILOT PILOT PILOT. To understand if a non-traditional method is going to work, you have to try it. Get co-workers, friends, or family to do a dry run.
  3. SMOOTH THE LANDING. Stakeholders will need help understanding how to apply the insights. Have a POV, and host a workshop to actively engage them.

Speakers

  • Nick Manluccia, Staff User Experience Researcher, Google

Organizer

Nick Manluccia, Staff User Experience Researcher, Google

Meta Information:

  • Event: SXSW
  • Format: Short Form
  • Track: Design
  • Track 2
  • Level: Intermediate
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