Chandra H.
About me
| Chandra H. | |
| Computer Science | |
| Computer Science | |
| Research Postgraduate | |
| Wentworth | |
| 2009 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| User Experience Researcher | |
| Harrison Research Ltd | |
| United Kingdom | |
| £35000 | |
| £60000 |
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A day in the life of a User Experience Researcher in the United Kingdom
My career history
My first job out of my degree was working for a well regarded UX agency in London. I started as a consultant. The learning curve around business requirements and how to apply the theoretical knowledge was steep. From there I worked at the BBC, then onto another agency where I progressed to a much more senior role within two years of graduating. In 2011 I became self employed and now take contracts from companies who need my services.
Where I hope to be in 5 years
One day I'd like to work with a small group of like- minded individuals on projects that have a real and meaningful benefit to people - working on medical devices rather than ecommerce websites for example.
My advice to students considering work
Take every opportunity to apply the theory that you learn. If there are internships, take them. Practice the softer skills that you only learn through dealing with the business world. Get involved in organisations where you can apply the theory you learn so that you can prove to employers you have applied experience. Anyone interested in Human Computer Interaction needs to have a well rounded education that includes research skills, psychology, computer science and design. There are a lot of jobs out there but most employers are looking for some experience.
My advice about working in my industry
Anyone interested in Human Computer Interaction needs to have a well rounded education that includes research skills, psychology, computer science and design. There are a lot of jobs out there but most employers are looking for some experience.
What I do
My job involves a combination of
1. business development - looking for potential contracts and scoping research plans
2. preparation for a particular research project - recruiting participants, preparing research plans, creating materials, etc.
3. conducting research either formative studies gathering requirements or more summative research looking at how well a product is performing
4. analysis of the findings and preparing reports
5. client liaison - reporting on the findings from the sessions, providing ad hoc consultancy, developing contacts.
Skills I use and how I developed them
My PhD from York is valuable as employers trust that I have the knowledge needed to get the job done. Studying at York helps as it is a well respected university that is well know both nationally and internationally. The subject (Human Computer Interaction) is a highly sought after skill at the moment. Any postgraduate study helps you to be focused and self motivated which are highly desirable skills in any profession.
What I like most
I get to talk to people about what their needs are for technology and then work with designers and developers to help make that happen.
What I like least
Sometimes no matter how hard you try you can't convince stakeholders/senior management to implement changes that you know will benefit the user/customer.
Next steps...
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