June 2026
Accelerating AI Innovation
The Transformative Power of Research
Presented at UXPA International 2026, this talk explored how AI is transforming the practice of research without changing its purpose. Through stories from healthcare, e-commerce, and global product development, the session examined how researchers can accelerate innovation while keeping human understanding at the center of every decision.
UXPA International • Las Vegas
Core Idea
AI is changing how research is conducted, but not why it exists.
Throughout history, every technological shift has expanded human capability while increasing the importance of understanding people. As AI accelerates product development, research becomes the bridge between technological possibility and meaningful human outcomes.
A Framework in Evolution
Looking back, this presentation captured the early shape of a perspective that would later evolve into AI Through the Lens of Time Travel.
Without explicitly naming it, the talk followed a journey from Past Wisdom, to Present Responsibility, to Future Possibility, exploring how history can help us make better decisions about the future of AI.
Key Takeaways
Technology Evolves
The tools we use will continue to change, from traditional research methods to AI-assisted workflows. Progress isn’t about replacing research. It’s about expanding what’s possible.
Humanity Endures
Needs, behaviors, trust, curiosity, and judgment remain at the heart of every successful product. Understanding people continues to be the foundation of meaningful innovation.
Research Is the Bridge
The organizations that build AI responsibly combine technological capability with deep human insight, transforming research from a checkpoint into a strategic advantage.
From Talk to Practice
Following this presentation, I created the AI + Human Research Strategist, an interactive GPT that helps research teams evaluate AI opportunities, define the right balance between automation and human judgment, and generate practical collaboration playbooks.
