About
I’m Kyle Hamel, a UX Researcher and AI Strategist. For over a decade I have led research that helps companies understand their users and decide where to take their products, with a particular focus on the experience of AI.
My work spans enterprise software, fintech, web and mobile apps, virtual reality, and video games. Drawing on a Master’s in HCI focused on Human-AI interaction, I have led AI research across Microsoft’s Cloud and AI organization, served as Square’s internal AI UX expert, and now lead research for new AI initiatives at BMO. Earlier I built the first UX research practice at RBCx and have consulted with dozens of startups on the direction of their products.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
Methods
I am a mixed methods researcher with a deep toolbox, built across hundreds of studies in real business settings. I choose the method to fit the question, not the other way around.
Qualitative
Usability testing, user interviews, concept testing, focus groups, diary and longitudinal studies, and heuristic evaluation.
Quantitative
Survey design and analysis, statistical analysis, card sorting, competitive analysis, and behavioral analytics.
Synthesis & Strategy
Journey mapping, persona creation, user flows, ideation workshops, opportunity framing, and research storytelling.
How I work
I believe research should change decisions, not just describe them. The most rigorous study means little if it never reaches the people making the calls, so I put as much care into communicating findings as into gathering them, translating evidence into clear, digestible direction for stakeholders, designers, and developers.
In practice that means building research-led ways of working: grounding product and AI development in real user need, and giving teams the evidence to make confident decisions. I have convinced senior leaders to rethink legacy processes, presented to executives, seen my work featured in an investor day, and turned research into product and AI strategy that companies have gone on to ship.
I do my best work as a close partner to a team, not a vendor handing over a deck. Whether you are evaluating an existing experience, choosing a direction for your product, or building something new, I would be glad to help you do it with evidence behind every decision.