Your Colleagues are Your Users Too

Key Insights

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  Distinguishing findings from insights is crucial; findings are observations, insights reveal motivations and consequences.

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  Stakeholders are the end users of research outputs and their needs and beliefs shape how they receive information.

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  People react to information that challenges their core beliefs as if facing a physical threat, causing defensive skepticism.

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  Confirmation bias leads people to accept information that aligns with their beliefs and reject what conflicts.

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  Sharing research insights requires tailored communication strategies based on the audience’s familiarity and role.

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  Reports alone may not foster empathy or understanding; interactive and creative methods like workshops and storytelling work better.

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  Knowing the desired outcome of sharing research (e.g., decision-making, empathy-building, buy-in) should guide how it’s presented.

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  Conflict management skills are essential when presenting challenging research insights that may provoke strong reactions.

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  Engagement with research outputs is often stronger when stakeholders are involved early and consistently throughout the project.

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  Creative communication techniques such as persona exercises, highlight reels, and narrative storytelling improve retention and resonance.

Notable Quotes