Abby Buchanan
UX Researcher & Strategist
Portland, Oregon · buchanan.abby@gmail.com
Research focused on how people experience systems under real-world conditions.
My work centers on moments where people get stuck—overwhelm, ambiguity, task-initiation breakdown, and the hidden effort required to translate human intent into system-compatible action.
Qualitative research
Semi-structured interviews, contextual inquiry, usability evaluation, thematic synthesis, research planning.
Research strategy
Problem framing, systems analysis, opportunity identification, interdisciplinary synthesis, evidence translation.
Accessibility & systems
Cognitive accessibility, neuroinclusive design, human factors, service and environmental thinking, ethical AI constraints.
Manager · Amri Studio · Portland, OR · 2022–2024
Managed a complex business transition including project coordination, asset sales, account closures, client communication, and operational systems. Redesigned information-flow and organizational systems within a complex studio environment.
Freelance UX, Web & Spatial Design · 2019–present
Designed sensory-informed environments and small-business websites; translated client needs into clearer user flows, onboarding, booking experiences, and structured digital systems.
Founder & Owner · Veda Collective · 2011–2019
Scaled a solo wellness practice into a team of five practitioners. Designed the end-to-end client experience, including intake, booking flows, service structure, staff systems, and repeatable service delivery.
Education, curriculum & facilitation
Designed curriculum for a multi-age educational cohort during the pandemic and developed and facilitated personal-development curriculum for adults. Earlier work included head-trainer responsibilities in hospitality.
Corporate ESL · Houston, TX
Worked as an ExxonMobil contractor with executives from Africa and Asia, developing ESL materials and leading intensive language-immersion instruction adapted to individual communication needs.
Small-business systems
Built websites for multiple small businesses and helped streamline practical systems including employee handbooks, online booking processes, and information flows.
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Certificate — Cornell University
Certificate in Psychologie of Home Design — Psychologie of Home Design School
Bachelor of Music, Music Composition (Tech Minor) — Oral Roberts University