About
“If you want to move from research that sits on the shelves to research that propels your product team forward - I would recommend hiring Anna.”
We are…
Blue Umbrella, welcome! We’re a UX research firm with strong values. Research ethics and fair business practises are important to how we work and who we choose as clients and business partners.
We do a mix of generative and evaluative research, and love to collaborate with women-led companies and teams on a social mission.
Founded by Anna Kop, we help early stage companies and pivoting product teams get clarity on their customers and product.
Anna has 13 years’ experience: a mix of in-house design/research at early stage product companies, at a consulting company, teaching, mentoring and as a self-employed consultant.
Educated as a scientist, she is prudent about drawing conclusions from data. At the same time, she’s incredibly nimble and understands the speed of business.
Behind the Name
“I don’t believe the loudest or most charismatic person in the room has all the answers. I listen deeply, take pauses as I think to speak and look away to contemplate. I do my best work when I am calm and focused, often to a playlist of soothing water sounds.
I named my company Blue Umbrella because it evoked this essential quality of calm.”
- Anna Kop, Founder, Blue Umbrella
Our Values
Actionable.
Business impact is always top of mind. We share observations and insights as the research happens so you’re involved and in the know in real-time vs. the recipient of a research report. We create actionable takeaways to inform business decisions.
Candid.
We communicate with transparency and clarity. We won’t sugarcoat bad news – like a 80% participant no show rate. Instead, we’ll let you know and figure out a way forward. (Yes, this actually happened.)
Approachable.
We have a knack for making participants feel comfortable. We quickly build trust and maximize our time learning from people. Equally, we want every member of the team to feel comfortable asking us questions.
Collaborative.
We encourage teams to be part of the research process as much as possible. Come attend live sessions & ask questions at the end. Have a specific format you prefer for insights? We’re open to ideas.