UX Research uses qualitative and quantitative methods to understand the experiences, needs, motivations, and challenges of the people who use and contribute to Wikimedia projects. Through interviews, observation, surveys, diary studies, concept testing, and other research methods, the team helps the Wikimedia Foundation (WMF) better understand how people interact with its products, communities, and technologies.

UX Research generates insights that inform the design of products, programs, and strategies that serve the Wikimedia movement. In doing so, the team elevates the voices and experiences of readers, contributors, developers, and other users, ensuring their perspectives are represented in product, program, and strategic decision-making. As part of Wikimedia Research, UX Research works closely with Design and product teams to bring user perspectives into decision-making throughout the development process.

The team works throughout the product lifecycle, conducting generative research to understand problem spaces and evaluative research to assess and refine potential solutions. By studying users in their real-world contexts, researchers identify needs, goals, pain points, and opportunities that help the WMF make informed, human-centered decisions.