User Researcher Review

As a user researcher, I work in 2 week long sprints where I contribute to planning and conducting research. This has included exploratory interviews with clients, aswell as usability testing of our artefacts. Following the sessions, I synthesis and analysis our findings, before playing them back to the wider team to allow for design iterations to be implemented

I had never heard of user research before joining IBM, and fell into the role after working as a business analyst then service designer on other projects. I have been in my current role for just under a year, where I have learn key skills in facilitation and analysis- on how UR contributes to a wider user centred design team

I really like the structure of my course, where I attend university every Friday. It's nice to have the social element of being with my peers on similar apprenticeships, as most of my school friends went to a stand alone uni course. I especially enjoy the research orientated modules where we have the opportunity to choose our own topic to study and write about

My programma is very straightforward. Monday to Thursday I work a normal job role on a client project. Then Friday is my study days where I attend university. Its an easy routine to follow, and its up to each individual on when to do independent study amongst this (i.e in evenings or weekends)

My apprentice manager is always on hand if I need support. we have regular check ins where we discuss my uni progress and set career goals, where a key part of this is ensuring we make links between our studies and our job roles. This helps us to build our portfolio which we need for our final gateway stage.

We also have regular check ins with a representative from our uni, where our apprentice manager from our employer is also invited. On these calls we again discuss progress, goals, and any areas of concern where applicable. Our advisors are aways only an email away if more support is needed!

My qualification is in business management, but my job role is in user research. For this reason, there are sometimes not direct links. This being said however, it's interesting when links do emerge as it is sometimes unexpected. The most valuable parts have been learnings about agile ways of working or innovation strategies.

At work we have loads of communities, such as the BAME, LGBT+, or foundation females communities. These are great ways to make likeminded friends, and there are often virtual and in person events depending on locations. There are also informal socials hosted by the apprentice community, where people get together to network

Yes

IBM has something for everyone, whether you want to pursue a technical, business, or design pathway. The learning opportunities are endless, and there is so much support for apprentices and other early professionals. In my time here I have tried out such a wide range of different job roles, which has really allowed me to find my niche!

Do your research and come prepared with ways you demonstrate/have demonstrated our core capabilities and values. Don't underestimate all the good things you have done in school (extra curricular clubs etc). These are a great way to portray your skills and aspirations! Make sure to be yourself in the interview and let your personality shine through