Michael L. Pickett

• Applied diverse research techniques, such as usability testing, user interviews, contextual inquiry, concept testing, heuristic evaluations, A/B testing, and competitive analyses, to deliver actionable insights to clients.
• Tested a range of hardware and software products, including keyboards, touchpads, OEM applications, and data repositories.
• Led and managed over 25 research projects from inception to completion.
• Oversaw project execution, including client communication to clarify research goals and deliverables, scheduling and managing data collection, preparing study materials, developing test plans, moderating sessions, analyzing data, and presenting findings.
• Produced deliverables such as slide decks, journey maps, and comprehensive executive reports.
• Exemplified strong communication skills by interacting effectively with clients, stakeholders, End to End personnel, and research participants.
• Supervised research assistants, set deadlines, and provided necessary support to ensure timely and high-quality work.
• Conducted interviews with business and consumer end users, including specialized roles such as IT Administrators, IT Decision Makers, Oil and Gas Engineers, and Document Controllers.
• Performed statistical analyses using JASP.
• Mentored and supported interns and research assistants, ensuring they understood the research process and maintained high standards of research quality.
• Developed a standardized procedure for data management and storage at End to End.
• Executed research projects for various clients such as Dell, HP, and Exxon Mobil.

• Sole UX Researcher responsible for conducting studies using diverse methods, including usability testing, focus groups, user interviews, surveys, card sorting, and contextual inquiries.
• Led a Voice of the Customer study by organizing and conducting focus groups with both internal stakeholders and external customers; synthesized qualitative data from surveys targeting policyholders and agents.
• Presented research findings to relevant stakeholders, translating insights into actionable recommendations.
• Provided guidance on designing content management systems, ensuring alignment with current UX practices and industry standards.
• Developed a comprehensive document outlining UX Research best practices for future reference and company-wide use.

Led/Supported studies for Facebook and HP.

Facebook:

• Led a study to evaluate redesigns of the user interface on a website, providing insights that enabled the client to make informed decisions on the preferred interface.
• Developed the test plan and defined research goals in collaboration with Facebook.
• Moderated both remote and in-person usability sessions, ensuring effective data collection.
• Collected data and took notes during recorded sessions, capturing user feedback and interactions.
• Analyzed data from user surveys and session comments, deriving actionable insights.
• Compiled and presented findings in a PowerPoint presentation, summarizing research conclusions for stakeholders.
• Supported coworker-led studies for Facebook by assisting with data analysis and note-taking.

HP:

• Co-led studies on user preferences for keyboard travel in gaming and business contexts.
• Collaborated with HP to define research goals with specific study objectives.
• Moderated usability studies to gather detailed user feedback and preferences.
• Analyzed survey data and error metrics related to keyboard preferences and rankings.
• Compiled results and recommendations into a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation.

General responsibilities included:

• Recruited and selected participants for research studies.
• Moderated study sessions, ensuring smooth and effective data collection.
• Conducted literature reviews to support and inform research efforts.
• Provided regular updates to clients on the progress of studies.
• Contributed to the creation of client presentations, including assembling key insights.
• Proactively identified and addressed potential issues, both technical and interpersonal, to ensure study success.
• Prepared comprehensive reports, video summaries, and study overviews.
• Assisted in training new employees and interns, supporting their integration and development.

• Designed usability studies to evaluate products and interfaces for industry professionals
• Conducted literature and standards reviews to inform the design of the studies
• Wrote scripts for usability study sessions
• Moderated usability testing sessions
• Collected and analyzed data from sessions
• Generated reports to communicate relevant findings and provided recommendations to improve the products/interfaces