Navigating the Tug-of-War Between User Needs and Business Goals in Research and Design
Watch this inspiring session between Auzita Irani, an expert in product research and strategy and currently leading the Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technology research team at Airbnb and UX Ambassador Joon-Mo Lee, who explores the intersection of philosophy, culture, design and innovation in his work and public speaking.
In this episode of UX Conversation, Auzita Irani shares her career story and reflects on what work reality for researchers looks like; what makes her get out of bed each morning and what is needed to thrive in highly innovative and complex design organizations – now and going forward. In particular, Auzita provides perspectives on how commitment to people can help in building relationships across disciplines.
Our Guest:
Auzita Irani is a Research Manager currently leading the Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technology research team at Airbnb in San Francisco. She has extensive experience shaping product strategy through a deep understanding of user needs and motivations over her 10+ year career.
Auzita is focused on innovating and enabling experiences that are transparent and provide clear value to both the user and business. She has a background in computer engineering and a masters in Human Computer Interaction from Georgia Tech.
Auzita is also a member of the jury for the UX Design Awards – Spring 2025.
About the Format:
UX Conversations presents professional insights and personal stories by leading design personalities and the awards’ jury members. The one-on-one talks offer inspirations and valuable takeaways from diverse disciplines and professional fields, supporting designers in their own work and career.
Presented by Joon-Mo Lee, UX Ambassador and expert on research & innovation. A distinguished graduate from Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London, Joon-Mo’s client work and public talks explore the intersection of philosophy, culture, design and innovation.
Before entering the design industry, Joon has worked in the toy and FMCG industry in Düsseldorf, Berlin, Hong-Kong and London. In his past engagements he has collaborated with a broad range of leading brands including LG, Samsung, Boeing, Huawei, BSH, Neff, Hansgrohe, Vorwerk and Schindler.
Joon is an Ambassador for the UX Design Awards and was chair of the jury from 2023 to 2024.
