Building a Research Repository Your Team Will Actually Use
- Philip Burgess
- Aug 12
- 1 min read
Updated: Aug 16
By Philip Burgess - UX Research Leader
Introduction. Many teams launch a research repository with high hopes—only to watch it collect digital dust. The key? Build it with the user in mind—in this case, your own team and stakeholders.
Why Repositories Fail
Overly complex structures.
Lack of clear tagging and search.
Inconsistent updates.
Keys to Success
Choose the Right Platform. Dovetail, Airtable, Notion, and Confluence are popular choices. Match the tool to your team’s needs.
Use Clear Metadata and Tagging. Tag by product area, persona, research method, and key themes.
Keep It Simple and Searchable. People won’t use what they can’t find quickly.
Make It Part of the Workflow. Integrate repository updates into your research process so they’re not an afterthought.
Drive Adoption. Host training sessions and regularly highlight repository “finds” to show its value.
Conclusion. A well-maintained repository becomes your organization’s research memory—saving time, avoiding repeated studies, and building credibility for your team.
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