Ep 4 | Data-Driven Creativity: When UX Research Inspires Cosplay Magic (with Dr. Audrey Reinert)

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As a UX researcher, I'm always fascinated by the unexpected connections between our field and other creative pursuits.

That's why I was excited to speak with Dr. Audrey Reinert, a senior quantitative UX researcher transforming how we approach UX, AI, and machine learning, while also applying her expertise to cosplay.

The Power of Quantitative UX Research

Before we dive into the fascinating intersection of UX and cosplay, let's take a moment to understand what quantitative UX research is. As Audrey explained:

“Quantitative research focuses on the behavioral side of user experience. We look at data like click patterns, mouse paths, and other measurable information to model and understand user behavior. This helps us identify pain points and make informed design recommendations.”

In my own work, I lean towards qualitative research. However, I've always appreciated the depth and precision that the quantitative side brings to the table. It's this data-driven approach that forms the foundation of Audrey's innovative project management method.

The Reinert Method: Bridging UX and Cosplay

Audrey's Reinert Method focuses on scoping, scaling, and templatizing projects to consistently deliver actionable results. She breaks it down into three key principles:

1. Planning with precision

2. Adapting to new information

3. Executing efficiently

What's fascinating is how seamlessly these principles apply to both UX research and cosplay projects. Audrey shared:

“When we're thinking about planning and production, especially in research as part of product design, breaking down what you want to do is crucial. It helps you build a sense of momentum and keeps you moving forward.”

Practical Application in Cosplay

To illustrate how the Reinert Method works in practice, Audrey gave an example from her current cosplay project - a Rings of Power Galadriel costume:

“I've basically said I am taking the month of October to work solely on the chest armor. It provides a clear checkpoint to say, 'Alright, every Friday I want to see if I have made progress towards the production of this finished chess piece.'”

This approach resonated with me, especially given my recent experience working on the Sunflower Squad graphic novel and bringing my character to life through cosplay. The process was chaotic, to say the least, and I can see how Audrey's structured approach could have made a world of difference.

Key Takeaways for UX Researchers and Cosplayers:

1. Break projects into manageable chunks

2. Set clear goals and checkpoints

3. Be willing to adapt your plans as you go

4. Focus on delivering actionable results

Overcoming Perfectionism and Moving Forward

One of the most valuable insights Audrey shared was about knowing when to stop tweaking and move forward with a project. As she put it:

“A perfect product is never finished. Understanding that there's time, money, and energy that you can devote to a project is crucial. A finished product in somebody's hand that they can start making decisions with is ultimately better than spending months trying to get that last little 2 or 3 percent to perfection.”

This advice hit home for me. As UX researchers, we often feel the pressure to have all the answers before presenting our findings. But sometimes, getting our work in front of developers or stakeholders earlier can lead to better outcomes in the long run.

Embracing Neurodiversity in Project Management

Another aspect of Audrey's method that I found particularly insightful was its adaptability for neurodivergent individuals. She explained how the structured approach can help those with ADD, ADHD, or autism spectrum disorders channel their energy and focus more effectively.

“We're not going to try to break that habit,” Audrey said. “We're going to say, 'Let's try to convert this energy, this desire to get something done and to satisfy that fixation, by putting it in a very manageable state.'”

Bringing It All Together

As our conversation came to a close, I couldn't help but feel inspired by the way Audrey has bridged the worlds of quantitative UX research and cosplay creativity. Her approach offers valuable lessons for anyone working on complex, multi-faceted projects - whether in the digital realm or the world of costume design.

By breaking down our work into manageable chunks, setting clear goals, and being willing to adapt along the way, we can all become more effective in our respective fields. And who knows? Maybe the next time you're stuck on a UX problem, the solution might just come from an unexpected source - like your latest cosplay project!

Connect with Dr. Audrey Reinert:

• Linkedin

• Portfolio

• The Reinert method