Jonathon Hensley spends a lot of time creating strategies for businesses. So Erin and JH chatted with him about what's changed since COVID-19 and why alignment matters more than ever right now.  

The takeaway? Everyone needs to be aligned around a common goal. They also need to understand how every project supports that larger goal. In a world that's moving faster than ever, user research is a pivotal part of making sure each effort is serving that goal well.

Highlights

• [7:06] The key to individual alignment is clarity on your goals and purpose, and providing people with the ability to fulfill those things.
• [10:46] Coming into research with bias or trying to validate an idea you already have can be a sign of misalignment
• [16:46] Right now, people want something concrete. While making a plan can feel good now, having a strategy and goals you're clearly aligned around is the key to long term, agile success.
• [25:13] Strategy is equating things to value and sharing values across your organization
• [30:47] The strategy, not the plan, will keep everyone working towards the same goals
• [37:52] If you can't afford to fail, research is one of the things that will ensure you don't.