Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the UXC?
The User Experience Center (UXC) is a consulting and applied research group at Bentley University. For over 25 years, we have partnered with organizations in the Boston area and around the world to provide research, strategy, and experience design services.
As a university-based consulting group, we combine industry expertise with academic rigor. Our team includes experienced practitioners, and we work closely with graduate students in Bentley’s Human Factors in Information Design program, who contribute to client work under the direction of faculty experts.
What services does the UXC offer?
The UXC provides research, strategy, and design, consulting services across the produce and service lifecycle.
Our work includes early-stage exploration, experience strategy, and support for complex decisions. We use a range of research and evaluation methods, such as interviews, usability testing, surveys, and field research to help organizations better understand user needs—whether those are customers, employees, or partners—and improve business outcomes.
Do you work with companies?
Yes. We work with for-profit and nonprofit organizations across industries to support research, strategy, and experience design initiatives.
While we are part of a university, we operate as a consulting group and partner with organizations on a wide range of initiatives, from early-stage research and concept development to evaluation and optimization.
Is the UXC more academic or industry-focused?
The UXC is focused on delivering actionable insights for organizations.
Our work is grounded in established research methods and academic best practices, but our primary goal is to help organizations make informed business decisions through a deeper understanding of users.
Can the UXC support internal teams?
Yes. The UXC often works alongside internalteams, providing additional research, strategy, and design support .
This may include usability testing, benchmarking studies, concept development, field research, or survey design and analysis. We integrate into existing workflows and deliver outputs that align with your team’s processes. And we can also provide an objective, third-party perspective to support decision-making.
What additional services or partnerships does the UXC offer?
In addition to services, we offer educational and collaborative opportunities for organizations.
These may include custom trainings and workshops to build internal capabilities, certificate programs for professional development, and sponsored research that address real-world challenges.
How do I get started with the UXC?
Engagements begin with an initial conversation to understand your questions, goals, and timeline. We recommend an approach and provide options aligned with scope, timing, and budget. Once a direction is agreed upon, we prepare a formal proposal. After approval, we assemble the project team and begin work with a kickoff meeting.
Please contact us to schedule this first meeting.
What is a typical timeline for a UXC project?
Timelines vary based on scope.
Some engagements may be completed in a few weeks, while more complex projects may extend over several months. We aim to align timelines with project goals and constraints.
How are UXC projects scoped and priced?
Projects are scoped based on the specific goals, methods, and timeline.
We provide estimates following an initial discussion and offer options to align with timing and levels of effort. Engagements are typically structured using a fixed-price model based on the agreed scope of work.
What is the role of students in client projects?
Our graduate students play a key role in client engagements by leading or supporting activities such as research, data analysis, and deliverable preparation.
Each project is led by a faculty consultant, who is responsible for the overall approach, execution, and deliverables.
How does the vendor approval process work?
The UXC is an approved vendor for many organizations and onboarding processes.
Does the UXC conduct engagements internationally?
Yes. The UXC engages with organizations both within and outside the United States.