A Geographic and Disciplinary Examination of UX Empirical Research Since 2000

Abstract

Defining the boundaries of a discipline is important work for helping others discover new avenues of research. In this research report, we share two new dimensions from an analysis of over 400 empirical user experience (UX) studies published between 2000 and 2016. The findings of this comprehensive examination reveal patterns within the researcher's methodological choices and artifacts of study across different countries and disciplines. Our research questions were: 1) Does the researcher's region (continent) affect the method(s) or artifacts(s) studied? 2) Does the researcher's disciplinary identity impact their choice of method and sample size? This research reveals future avenues for examination and helps UX researchers consider new opportunities on the horizon.