Crystal Rutland

Research strategist specializing in how to balance the user needs with business drivers.

Crystal Rutland is the Director of UX Research Strategy and co-founder of Empirical. She focuses on helping customers analyze how and when to incorporate user experience research and design into their development process. She has done research to discover new, specialized uses for the PC in the home, as well as working extensively on innovations in healthcare technology, focusing on telehealth and elders aging in place.

Professional Background

Prior to joining Empirical, Crystal worked at Intel Corporation as a Research Strategist. She helped various divisions including Software Solutions, IT and the Digital Home Group define product strategy and user-centered design direction. Previously, she worked for The Performance Center, a management consultant agency in partnership with Georgetown, Virginia Tech, Oregon State and Portland State Universities. Her past experience as a business consultant gives her a deeper understanding of the business drivers and political maneuverings that often weigh heavily on product design and implementation.

Throughout her career, she has worked on projects for companies such as Intel, Yahoo!, Nike, HP and the American Red Cross. She also has experience with government agencies such as the US Navy, US Postal Service and the government of Botswana. She and her colleagues were recognized by Susan Rice, then Undersecretary of State for African Affairs, for their work in Botswana. Crystal got her Master’s Degree in Theory of Language and Semiotics. She has a particular interest in how language relates to thought and how individuals frame their perceptions of reality. She has been an Adjunct Professor at Portland State University teaching classes such as Writing for the Web and Web Design and Usability principles.