What phase of the product development life cycle does UX research take place?

UX research is an integral part of the product development life cycle and is not confined to a single phase. It encompasses multiple stages, starting before the design phase, continuing during, and extending beyond it.

Before the design phase, UX research helps in understanding user needs, behaviors, and the context in which the product will be used. This foundational knowledge informs the design process, ensuring that user-centered principles are upheld from the outset.

During the design phase, ongoing research allows for testing concepts, gathering feedback, and making iterative improvements. This ensures that the product evolves in alignment with user expectations and requirements.

After the design phase, UX research remains vital for evaluating the product's performance in real-world contexts. It helps gather user feedback on the final product, identifies areas for improvement, and informs future iterations or new features.

This comprehensive approach illustrates that effective UX research is continuous and multifaceted, integrating into all stages of the product development life cycle.