Jess Holbrook emphasizes that UX research is fundamentally about building better products, and as tools and methodologies evolve—especially with the emergence of AI—UX professionals must adapt. While AI may automate certain tasks, the need for human insight in understanding user behavior and guiding design remains crucial. The future of UX will require new methods and a focus on the skills that define effective product design.

Balancing usability and usefulness is crucial for product success; usability focuses on how easy a product is to use, while usefulness addresses whether it solves meaningful problems. A product that excels in one area but fails in the other risks user abandonment and negative reviews. Employing structured testing methods can help ensure a product meets user needs effectively and intuitively.