Research Plan for Investigating the Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Industrial Practice of User Experience (UX)

Abstract

With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, software development workflows are undergoing significant transformation. AI-based solutions not only automate and accelerate coding and development tasks but also influence research activities that support development and the design of user interfaces (UI). Consequently, AI-assisted practices are increasingly integrated into the work of user experience (UX) professionals, leading to substantial changes in the industrial practice of user-centered software development. AI tools support UX experts’ daily work and foster the emergence of new competencies at both individual and organizational levels. These changes reshape the role of UX professionals and the workflows within companies, opening new avenues for academic research in the field of UX. In this context, the present article briefly reviews the evolution of AI and its current role in UX activities, and outlines a research plan designed to investigate the changes occurring in the UX processes of software development companies. The research plan employs a mixed- methods approach: a questionnaire examines the usage habits and preferences of digital product design professionals regarding AI tools, while a series of interviews provides insights into corporate processes. Additionally, Q methodology is applied to identify clusters of attitudes associated with AI tool use. Finally, changing organizational expectations are analyzed through a systematic content analysis of job advertisements from software industry actors. Thus, this research plan synthesizes key research questions and appropriate methodologies to explore the impact of AI proliferation on UX workflows on multiple levels.