Importance of ethical user research

Any user research involves people and their privacy. In contrast to academic research, there are no strict ethical regulations in UX research. However, it's your responsibility to ensure that your research is bias-free, accurate, and respectful of users' privacy and personal data.

Maintaining high ethical standards in your research demonstrates a commitment to high morals and protects your company's reputation. Violating users' confidentiality or acting without their consent can ruin your good name for years.

The digital age has brought us to the point where people can find traces of your ethical transgressions on the internet years after they’ve occurred. This can actively discourage them from using your products.^[1]