Part
01
of three
Part
01
Research Teams: Uber, Lyft, AirBnB, Slack
The tools used by the research team at Uber, Lyft, AirBnB, and Slack include software platforms such as data science workbench (DSW), and KnowledgeHound, and programming tools such as SQL, PHP and Python.
We researched the relevant information by utilizing the company websites, press releases and articles published by trusted media websites such as Techcrunch, fastcompany, and CMSwire. We also utilized the job listings for researchers posted by each company to extract the information regarding the tools used by the research team and the functions and responsibilities of the research team. Lastly, we utilized LinkedIn to extract the information regarding the number of employees working in the research team of each of the company.
1. Uber
TOOLS USED:
The research team at Uber uses data science workbench (DSW), a centralized interactive analytic and machine learning platform that can be used to leverage aggregated data and perform tasks such as data exploration, ad-hoc analyses, workflow scheduling, and dashboarding. DSW is in the form of a web-based portal with a graphical user interface. Besides this, Uber also uses data visualization tools for tasks such as exploration, inspection, debugging and exposition of data, and VTOS for identifying competitors and private industry opposition.
FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The main responsibility of the research team at Uber is to conduct research on machine learning and deep-learning models and algorithms. The team also works on optimizing Uber's training protocols, test-time performance, memory footprint, and power consumption. Besides this, the team also designs various tools for automated model tuning, hyperparameter optimization, and experiment analysis.
SIZE OF RESEARCH TEAM:
2. LYFT
TOOLS USED:
The research team at Lyft uses KnowledgeHound, a search-driven analytic platform that can be used to analyze data, and provide insights to the marketing and sales partners of Lyft. Besides this, the research team also uses Salesforce Pardot and Sales Cloud for identifying customers, and Jira for managing internal projects.
FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The main responsibility of the research team at Lyft is to design and conduct studies regarding various Lyft products. The researchers utilize techniques and methods such as ethnographic and field research, diary studies, and usability testing. The research team is also working on building a self-driving system. Besides this, the team reviews, analyzes, and communicates tactical data and strategic insights.
SIZE OF RESEARCH TEAM:
3. SLACK
TOOLS USED:
The research team at Slack mainly uses tools such as SQL, PHP, Python, Ruby, Go, and Java to conduct general research.
FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The main responsibility of the research team at Slack is to develop new survey programs such as one-off surveys, and tracking surveys, and maintain the existing tracking survey programs. The team also collaborates with the data engineering team to distribute data insights to the entire company for decision-making and product investments.
SIZE OF RESEARCH TEAM:
4. AIRBNB
TOOLS USED:
The research team at AirBnB uses tools such as SQL and ETL for general research purposes. The team also uses editor plugins to correct syntactical errors in their program code.
FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The main responsibility of the research team at AirBnB is to conduct research about the product cycle using both formative and evaluative methods. The team uses various research techniques and methods such as log analysis, usability studies, and ethnographic observation. The research team also needs to create actionable research insights that can be distributed to the company designers, engineers and product managers.
SIZE OF RESEARCH TEAM: