What is a research gap in UX design?

A research gap in UX design is defined as an area where existing knowledge or research is lacking, highlighting the need for further investigation. The correct answer indicates that identifying a research gap focuses on understanding what additional research should be conducted to meet user needs and benefit the business. By pinpointing these gaps, designers can prioritize their research efforts to gather insights that will inform design decisions, ultimately leading to better user experiences.

This process often involves analyzing existing data and literature to determine where important questions remain unanswered or where user behaviors or needs have not been fully explored. By focusing on these research gaps, UX designers can ensure that their work is relevant and informed by the most pressing issues faced by users.

The other options do not fully encapsulate the concept of a research gap. For instance, completing user testing does not address areas needing further inquiry, and highlighting successful design practices from competitors merely reflects current approaches rather than gaps in knowledge. Similarly, referring to the data already collected does not indicate areas requiring additional research; rather, it reflects completed research efforts.