Best UX tools for UX Researchers

UX research best tools

Updated on 5 Feb 2025  

Life of a UX researcher can be very challenging as UX research is a team sport. As a UX researcher, you need to have a great level of communication, engagement, multi tasking and work management skills. A typical day of a UX researcher can be very uncertain and have lots more surprises such as changes in the priority, pivoting the plans, cross functional team stakeholders engagements, planning the studies, running, analysis, reporting, readout, retrospection and sometimes helping the fellow research folks, a lot in a single day. Thanks to some amazing and helpful tools which can help make your life easier and systematic. 


UX Tools Market Insights by UXness - User research 

Top UX Research Tools as per 2024 report

The 2024 survey reveals the following preferences for user research tools:

  • Google Forms (58%): The most popular choice for collecting user feedback.
  • User Interviews (46%): A top method for conducting qualitative research.
  • UserTesting (32%): Popular for usability testing and video-based feedback.
  • Survey Monkey (25%): Favored for structured survey creation.
  • Typeform (21%): Valued for its user-friendly and interactive survey design.




User Research tools

UserZoom (now UserTesting)

UserZoom


Check UserZoom> 



MeasuringU MUIQ 

MUIQ

Check MUIQ> 




Maze 

Maze Usability Testing Tool


Check Maze > 



UXArmy

UXArmy UX Tool


UXArmy is the go-to platform for teams to validate product ideas, innovate faster, and align with customer needs. With expert-level testing tools across websites, mobile apps, and prototypes, it enables you to gather quality insights seamlessly. Whether through unmoderated usability tests, user interviews, focus groups, surveys, card sorting or tree testing Tailored for product, marketing, and research teams, UXArmy gives your team the ability to test, analyze, and make collaborative, evidence-driven decisions—without the complex setup.

Check UXArmy >



Other tools: UXTesting, Zoom, SurveyMonkey, Typeform, Dscout, OptimalWorkshop  



Session schedule management

Managing the participants schedules & sessions can be a challenging task when you are involved in multiple studies or targeting multiple personas. Below tools can be helpful to make these tasks easier:


Calendly

Calendly UX Research tool

Check Calendly> 


More: Airtable 

3 Months free Interaction Design Foundation



Recruitment management 

UserInterviews 

UserInterviews

Check UserInterviews>


More: Respondent.io



DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Top UX Courses at Udemy


Data analysis 

Miro

Miro app

Check Miro>




Dovetail 

Dovetail


More:, Reframer, Reduct.video


Top UX Bootcamps by Interaction Design Foundation - $200 OFF


Agile & development sync

Jira

Jira app

Check Jira>

10 Heuristic Principles – Jakob Nielsen’s (Usability Heuristics)

Heuristic principles

Updated: 10 Jan 2025

What are Nielsen's heuristic principles?

Heuristic Evaluation is a usability inspection method for computer software that helps to identify usability problems in the user interface (UI) design. It specifically involves evaluators examining the interface and judging its compliance with recognized usability principles (the "heuristics").

Jakob Nielsen's heuristics are probably the most-used usability heuristics for user interface design. Nielsen developed the heuristics based on work together with Rolf Molich in 1990. The final set of heuristics that are still used today were released by Nielsen in 1994. Also known as Usability Heuristics, Nielsen heuristics. 


Why are Heuristic Principles Important?

Heuristic principles are important because they provide a quick and effective way to identify and fix usability issues early in the design process, saving time and resources. They ensure consistency, reducing cognitive load and helping users navigate systems more efficiently. Additionally, they focus on user needs, enhancing satisfaction and engagement, which are critical for the success of any product.

In summary, heuristic principles are foundational tools that enhance usability, consistency, and user satisfaction, making them indispensable in the field of user experience design.

What are the 10 usability heuristics for user interface design?

  1. Visibility of System Status: Keep users informed about system status with timely feedback.
  2. Match Between System and the Real World: Use familiar language and concepts for users.
  3. User Control and Freedom: Provide options to undo actions and exit states easily.
  4. Consistency and Standards: Maintain uniformity and follow platform conventions.
  5. Error Prevention: Design to prevent errors before they occur.
  6. Recognition Rather Than Recall: Make information and actions visible to minimize memory load.
  7. Flexibility and Efficiency of Use: Cater to both novice and expert users with adaptable interfaces.
  8. Aesthetic and Minimalist Design: Avoid irrelevant information to keep the interface clean.
  9. Help Users Recognize, Diagnose, and Recover from Errors: Offer clear error messages and solutions.
  10. Help and Documentation: Provide easy-to-find, task-focused help and documentation.  

Let's deep dive and learn the Heuristics Principles in detail.

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1. Visibility of system status

The system should always keep users informed about current state and actions through appropriate visual cues and feedback within reasonable time. 

Visibility of system status heuristic principle


Gmail loading a user’s mailbox. Tells the user to wait & Indicates the status of what’s going on.


Visibility of system status heuristic principle


Proper presentation of available seats and booked seats with price and other details.
   

3 Months free Interaction Design Foundation



2. Match between system and the real world

The system should speak the users' language, with words, phrases and concepts familiar to the user, rather than system-oriented terms. Follow real-world conventions, making information appear in a natural and logical order.

Match between system and the real world

iBooks iPad application using the metaphor of wooden book shelf.


Match between system and the real world
Using real life metaphor in computer application.



Top UX Courses at Udemy



3. User control and freedom

Users often choose system functions by mistake and will need a clearly marked "emergency exit" to leave the unwanted state without having to go through an extended dialogue. Support undo and redo.

User control and freedom, heuristics principles

Mozilla suggesting some security tips and handling exception.

User control and freedom, heuristics principles

History in Photoshop helps user in recovering previous steps.




4. Error prevention

Even better than good error messages is a careful design which prevents a problem from occurring in the first place. Either eliminate error-prone conditions or check for them and present users with a confirmation option before they commit to the action.

Error prevention, heuristic principles

 

5. Help users recognize, diagnose, and recover from errors

Error messages should be expressed in plain language (no codes), precisely indicate the problem, and constructively suggest a solution.

Help users recognize, diagnose, and recover from errors

 

3 Months free Interaction Design Foundation



6. Consistency and standards

Users should not have to wonder whether different words, situations, or actions mean the same thing. Follow platform conventions.

Consistency and standards, heuristics principles


Consistency and standards, heuristics principles



 

7. Recognition rather than recall

Minimize the user's memory load by making objects, actions, and options visible. The user should not have to remember information from one part of the dialogue to another. Instructions for use of the system should be visible or easily retrievable whenever appropriate.

Recognition rather than recall




8. Flexibility and efficiency of use

Accelerators --unseen by the novice user --may often speed up the interaction for the expert user such that the system can cater to both inexperienced and experienced users. Allow users to tailor frequent actions.

Flexibility and efficiency of use



Auto-fills

Flexibility and efficiency of use

 

9. Aesthetic and minimalist design

Dialogues should not contain information which is irrelevant or rarely needed. Every extra unit of information in a dialogue competes with the relevant units of information and diminishes their relative visibility.

Aesthetic and minimalist design



10. Help and Documentation

Even though it is better if the system can be used without documentation, it may be necessary to provide help and documentation. Any such information should be easy to search, focused on the user's task, list concrete steps to be carried out, and not be too large.


Help and Documentation


Contextual help is the best way to help !
Also, telling users about the consequences of their actions is also very helpful.




Top 30 Remote Job Boards to Get Paid in USD from Anywhere

Top Remote jobs portals

Find Remote Jobs Without U.S. Citizenship

Looking for remote jobs that pay in USD? You don’t need U.S. citizenship to work remotely! Here are 30 top remote job boards where you can find work across various industries, from tech and design to writing and freelancing.


Best Remote Job Sites for Global Professionals


#### 1. [RemoteOK](https://remoteok.io)  

A global hub for remote jobs across industries.


#### 2. [CareerVault Pty. Ltd](https://careervault.io)  

Discover curated remote opportunities tailored to your skills.


#### 3. [Dribbble](https://dribbble.com/jobs)  

Perfect for creatives seeking design-focused remote gigs.


#### 4. [Working Nomads](https://www.workingnomads.co/jobs)  

Stay nomadic while working online.


#### 5. [Authentic Jobs, Inc.](https://authenticjobs.com)  

Remote work for designers, developers, and creatives.


#### 6. [Landing.Jobs](https://landing.jobs)  

Remote jobs with a focus on tech talent.


#### 7. [PowerToFly](https://powertofly.com)  

Diverse, inclusive remote job boards.


#### 8. [Wellfound (formerly AngelList)](https://angel.co)  

Remote startup jobs—perfect for early-stage hustlers.


#### 9. [Upwork](https://www.upwork.com)  

Freelance powerhouse for jobs of all sizes.


#### 10. [SkipTheDrive](https://www.skipthedrive.com)  

No commute needed—remote jobs across sectors.


#### 11. [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com)  

Gig economy giant—monetize your skills on demand.


#### 12. [The Muse](https://www.themuse.com)  

Company insights + remote jobs.


#### 13. [Remotive](https://remotive.io)  

Remote job board with a strong community vibe.


#### 14. [Designhill](https://www.designhill.com/jobs)  

Designers, this is your playground for remote gigs.


#### 15. [Indeed](https://www.indeed.com/q-Remote-jobs.html)  

Classic search, now loaded with remote opportunities.


#### 16. [Behance](https://www.behance.net/joblist)  

Showcase your portfolio and get remote creative jobs.


#### 17. [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/remote-jobs)  

Network your way into remote opportunities.


#### 18. [WeWorkRemotely](https://weworkremotely.com)  

One of the OGs of remote job boards.


#### 19. [Toptal](https://www.toptal.com)  

Elite remote gigs for top-tier freelancers.


#### 20. [CareerBuilder](https://www.careerbuilder.com)  

Big name, big remote job listings.


#### 21. [Freelancer.com](https://www.freelancer.com)  

Build a global client base through freelance gigs.


#### 22. [JustRemote](https://justremote.co)  

A clean interface to help you filter and find the perfect remote job.


#### 23. [Jobspresso](https://jobspresso.co)  

Remote jobs you can apply to instantly.


#### 24. [freelancermap](https://www.freelancermap.com)  

Tech-focused freelance remote jobs.


#### 25. [FlexJobs](https://www.flexjobs.com)  

Verified remote gigs—no scams, just legit work.


#### 26. [Gun.io](https://www.gun.io)  

Remote tech jobs for developers.


#### 27. [Remote.co](https://remote.co/remote-jobs/)  

All things remote—from jobs to advice.


#### 28. [Virtual Vocations](https://www.virtualvocations.com)  

Remote jobs across industries, vetted for quality.


#### 29. [ARC](https://arc.dev)  

Remote developer jobs with great teams.


#### 30. [Pangian](https://pangian.com)  

Connect with companies hiring remote talent globally.


## Which Remote Job Board Will You Try?


Whether you’re a freelancer, developer, designer, or entrepreneur, there’s a platform for you. Start applying and land that dream remote job today!


IndiGo’s 10-Minute Turnaround: How Operational Efficiency Added 200 Flights Annually & Enhanced Customer Experience

IndiGo’s CX casestudy

Published on 14 Feb 2025 

Description: Discover how IndiGo’s operational efficiency strategy—saving 10 minutes per flight—led to 200 additional flights annually while enhancing Customer Experience Design. Learn how Customer Journey Mapping and Service Design played a role and explore top books and courses on CX.

Tags: IndiGo operational efficiency, Customer Experience Strategy, Journey Mapping, Process Mapping in UX, CX books and courses

Introduction: The Power of Operational Efficiency in Customer Experience

In the highly competitive airline industry, every minute saved translates into cost efficiency and Customer Experience. IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has successfully reduced turnaround time by 10 minutes per flight, allowing it to operate 200 additional flights annually. This operational efficiency not only maximizes fleet utilization but also significantly enhances User Centered Design.

In this case study, we will explore:
✔️ How IndiGo’s Process Mapping optimized turnaround time
✔️ How Customer Journey Mapping improved passenger experience
✔️ The business impact of UX Research and Customer Research
✔️ Top books and courses to master Customer Experience

Let’s dive in!


Process Mapping: How IndiGo Achieved a 10-Minute Flight Time Reduction

Process Mapping involves breaking down an operational workflow to identify inefficiencies. IndiGo optimized its flight operations by:

1. Standardizing Its Fleet

IndiGo operates only Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, which simplifies crew training, maintenance, and parts inventory. This reduces the time required for aircraft readiness and minimizes delays.

2. Optimizing Ground Handling Operations

By streamlining baggage handling, refueling, and cleaning, IndiGo has achieved a turnaround time of 20–25 minutes, among the fastest in the industry.

3. Implementing a 4-Zone Boarding System

IndiGo introduced a 4-zone boarding system, reducing average boarding time by 7 minutes and ensuring smoother passenger flow.

4. Adding Extra Disembarkation Ramps

The third ramp system introduced for remote stands helped cut deboarding time by 3 to 5 minutes.

5. Using Data-Driven Route Optimization

IndiGo collaborates with air traffic control to optimize flight paths, reduce holding patterns, and minimize taxi times, contributing to its time savings.





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Journey Mapping: How IndiGo Improved Customer Experience (CX)

Customer Journey Mapping focuses on enhancing each touchpoint in the passenger experience. IndiGo’s operational efficiency directly benefits passengers in several ways:

1. Higher On-Time Performance

By improving turnaround efficiency, IndiGo maintains one of the highest on-time performance (OTP) rates in India, leading to fewer delays and greater reliability.

2. More Flight Options

With 200 additional flights annually, IndiGo offers greater flexibility in travel schedules, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

3. Faster Boarding & Deplaning

The 4-zone boarding and extra ramps ensure passengers spend less time waiting in queues, improving their overall travel experience.


Business Impact: How UX & CX Strategies Boost IndiGo’s Growth

1. Higher Aircraft Utilization = More Revenue

Most airlines operate aircraft 8–10 hours per day, but IndiGo’s optimization allows for 12–13 hours of usage per aircraft, leading to more flights and increased revenue.

2. Stronger Customer Retention & Market Leadership

IndiGo’s high Net Promoter Score (NPS) and customer loyalty stem from its reliable, affordable, and seamless travel experience.

3. Competitive Advantage in a Price-Sensitive Market

As a low-cost carrier, IndiGo thrives on high efficiency and volume rather than premium pricing. Its cost-effective model is hard for competitors to replicate.





IxDF Free Membership UX Courses



As UXNESS being official Education Partner Interaction Design Foundation (IxDF), brings you 25% discounts (3 Months Free) subscription on UX courses.



Further Learning: Best Books & Courses on Customer Experience (CX)

To understand how CX drives business success, here are five must-read books and top-rated courses from Udemy and Interaction Design Foundation (IxDF).

Top 5 Books on Customer Experience

  1. Chief Customer Officer 2.0 – Jeanne Bliss

  2. The Power of Moments – Chip Heath & Dan Heath

  3. The Cult of the Customer – Shep Hyken

  4. Outside In: The Power of Putting Customers at the Center – Harley Manning & Kerry Bodine

  5. Customer Understanding – Annette Franz


Top Courses on Customer Experience

📌 Interaction Design Foundation (IxDF) Courses:

Want to create customer-centric experiences like IndiGo? Explore the books and courses above and start building better experiences today!



Further readings

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