In the age of AI, how important is user research? Is UX research just a way to validate our own assumptions, or does it play a deeper role in shaping product strategy? And as AI adoption grows, how exciting is the future for UX researchers really?

In this episode of Our Design Diaries, I speak with eight SAP UX researchers to unpack four questions facing user research today.

They share why UX research is not about validating assumptions, what user insights continue to surprise, how user research drives product strategy, and what the future of UX research looks like, from artificial users to researchers evolving into strategic partners.

Listen to learn how UX researchers keep humans at the center of product innovation as technology accelerates.

Thank you for sharing your perspectives: Alina Uvaeva, Alexandra Matz, Andy Echenique, Ellie Kemery, Eric Mahlstedt, Kathrin Paimann, Leonie Dietterle, Miray Kubilay

Are AI tools replacing UX designers or giving them superpowers? Should designers rush to learn every new AI tool, or double down on core design principles? And what does it really take to stay relevant as AI systems begin to design, prototype and even strategize on their own?

In this episode of Our Design Diaries, I speak with Pablo Stanley, Designer at Vercel, to explore the excitement and unease UX designers feel as AI reshapes design workflows.

Pablo shares how AI is changing which designers get hired, how it impacts UX skill gaps, and why adaptability, not perfection, is the most critical skill for designers right now.

We discuss AI as a creative collaborator, how UX designers can avoid becoming tool operators, why fundamentals matter more than ever, and what it means to stay nimble as intelligent systems accelerate beyond traditional workflows.

Listen to learn how UX designers can use AI to amplify their work, focus on higher-order creative tasks, and shape meaningful user experiences in a world where intelligence is no longer just human.

How do you prepare for a UX design interview? What should you include in a design portfolio? And do you need formal design education to land a design job in 2026?

In this episode of Our Design Diaries, I speak with Lyubomir Mateev, Principal UX Designer at the SAP Design Hub Sofia, about what hiring managers actually look for when reviewing portfolios and interviewing designers. Drawing from his experience as both an interviewee and interviewer, Lyubomir shares practical advice for junior designers, career switchers, and UX professionals.

We discuss creativity and design mindset, how portfolios are judged visually first, and why skills like networking, negotiation, and building credibility are critical for design careers but rarely taught in school.

Listen to learn how to tailor your UX portfolio, prepare for design interviews, and align your application with the company and role you’re applying for..