James Weaver

About James Weaver

I’m a UX researcher and product design leader based in Columbus, Ohio, with over 20 years of experience helping teams move from ideas to validated product direction.My work typically starts with UX research—understanding users, workflows, and opportunities through interviews, discovery sessions, and observation. From there, I help teams translate those insights into UX design, rapid prototyping, and user testing so ideas can be explored and validated before significant engineering effort begins.This approach helps product teams reduce risk, clarify product direction, and make better decisions earlier in the development process.Throughout my career, I’ve worked across multiple industries designing both consumer and enterprise products, often tackling complex workflows where usability, performance, and business outcomes all need to align.I frequently collaborate with product managers, engineers, and business leaders to bring research insights into real product decisions. In many engagements, that work moves beyond static design into interactive prototypes and realistic product simulations that allow teams to test ideas and learn quickly.Applying my skills across different industries has helped me develop a strong user-centered perspective while also fostering collaborative team environments where creativity and practical problem-solving thrive.The goal is always the same:To help teams connect user needs, product strategy, and technical execution so the final product delivers meaningful value for both users and the business.Today, I continue this work through UX Sprint Lab, where I help organizations explore product opportunities through UX research, design workshops, rapid prototyping, and user testing.

Experience

1. Founder

   Ux Sprint Lab

   Mar 2024 — Present · Columbus, OH, US

   UX Sprint Lab helps startups and product teams reduce risk and make product decisions fast.Founded by a veteran UX leader with 20+ years of experience, UX Sprint Lab has partnered with early-stage startups and growth companies across fintech, healthcare, e-commerce, enterprise software, and emerging tech. Recent work includes collaborations with teams at multiple venture-backed startups navigating zero-to-one and scale-up challenges.What makes UX Sprint Lab different- Research-led – Interviews, usability testing, rapid prototyping, and synthesis drive every decision- Fast, focused sprints – No 12-week timelines before learning something useful- Embedded collaboration – We work alongside product, design, and engineering teams- Outcome-based engagement – Clients only pay if we meet the agreed-upon goalsUX Sprint Lab is a strategic partner and lever to help teams learn faster, avoid costly missteps, and move forward with confidence.If you’re a founder or product leader trying to get from idea → clarity → momentum, UX Sprint Lab exists to help you get there.

Education

• Franklin University

  Bachelor's degree, Management Information Systems, General

  2005 — 2010

• DePaul University

  Master's degree, Human Computer Interaction