Learning a project’s subject matter is especially challenging for UX research consultants, who work on projects with various clients, in different industries and domains. Often, when a project begins, you won’t have much time to learn the subject matter. It’s understandable that clients are sometimes skeptical that a consultant can come in and understand their business in a short time.

Learning Complex Subject Matter

To borrow a metaphor I heard in a slightly different context one time: Utility-class frameworks are like bumper bowling for styling. Use the classes and it’ll work out fine. You might not get a strike, but you won’t get a gutter ball either.

If we’re gonna criticize utility-class frameworks, let’s be fair about it

When we treat “the beginning” as something sacred, we give it more power than it deserves. The beginning can start in the middle, or even at the end.

Where do I even begin?

Seizing the middle is a chess strategy embodying the value of forward thinking. It involves using pieces to commandeer the middle of the board. A player can then restrict their opponent’s movements by controlling the maximal number of pieces in the game.

Seizing The Middle: Chess Strategy in Business