Research Leader & Storyteller

Driving impact through human-centered research, product insight, and team leadership across corporate, nonprofit, and academic environments.

Research

In-depth insights backed by data to drive strategy, product design, and innovation.

Leadership

Developing high-performing research teams with strategic leadership techniques.

Writing & Speaking

Sharing research insights through articles, talks, and presentations.

About Dana

I’m a senior research leader specializing in human-centered research, accessibility, and inclusive design. I transform complex human stories into clear insights that shape product strategy and guide cross-functional teams. Currently, I serve as Senior Manager of UX Research & Insights at Lenovo, where I lead global research programs across hardware, software, AI, and emerging technologies to make experiences better for all users.

Featured Works

A collaborative approach to uncovering meaningful, evidence-based insights.

Innovating for Individuals with Visual Impairments

After three years of research, development, and implementation, Lenovo is the first laptop manufacturer to integrate additional tactile cues in its keyboards to increase accessibility. Read more about my discovery research and how my insights influenced these improvements.

Study Of Technology Needs Of Students With Disabilities

Technology in higher education can be both an aid and a challenge for students with disabilities. I led this qualitative study to help institutions better understand the needs of students who have physical or learning disabilities requiring accessible technologies or academic accommodations.

Perceptions Of A Flexible Writing Classroom

The design of the “flexible” classroom at North Carolina State University evolved over the course of several years. I co-led a long-term research initiative to understand how students perceive, use, and navigate these spaces as the department transitioned to a bring-your-own-technology model.

Spotlight:
Designing and Conducting Inclusive Research

How a Global Technology Company and an Online Research Platform Partnered to Explore the Technology Experiences of Users who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Recommendations

Insights from industry leaders & colleagues

"While at Lenovo, I had the pleasure of working closely with Dana, while she served as the User Research Senior Manager, supporting our larger Research & Insights team..."
- Dan Sevier
"I’ve had the pleasure of working with Dana at Lenovo for nearly five years. Her feedback and research contributions have been exceptional, thorough, actionable, and deeply insightful..."
- Ada Lopez
"I was fortunate enough to be able to work with Dana for several years, and I can't recommend her highly enough as both a brilliant and skilled professional, and as a kind and generous ..."
- Mark McCormack

Interviews & Industry Conversations