Continuous Product Discovery: How to Democratise Conversations with Customers to Build a Better Product

In this session I'll demystify continuous product discovery, teaching both product teams and researchers alike how to integrate research into the product lifecycle effectively. Drawing from 10 years experience in research, design and product, I'll share:

What continuous discovery really means and who is best placed to do it
Practical steps for building a collaborative, sustainable process
How to overcome common challenges, including establishing stakeholder buy-in, managing capacity and reducing risk
Some tips on where I think AI could be useful to augment, not replace, user research Whether you're a researcher or designer looking to expand influence, a product manager seeking more confident direction, or a leader aiming to shift to a customer centred culture, this session will equip you with actionable strategies to embed human-centred decision making in your team's culture.

Ashlea Rendel

Ashlea is an experienced UX leader with over a decade in the industry working across the insurance and federal government landscapes. Currently Research Manager for Health Insurance at Bupa APAC, Ashlea leads a team of design and behavioural researchers helping shape product strategies and improve user experiences. With a PhD in Information Systems, and a background in both research and UX design, she combines academic rigour and practical expertise to bring actionable research into the product development lifecycle and strategic decision making. Ashlea is a strong advocate for building high-performing teams and mentoring the next generation of UX professionals, and has been a mentor in the University of Newcastle HunterWiSE program.