Researcher and
designer in one.

A unique combination of end-to-end product design, mixed-methods research capability, sharp business acumen, and the fluency to speak about AI, data & the technology behind it all.

Alysa Buchanan outdoors in a dark coat over a floral top, smiling, with blossoming trees behind her.

I work with lean early-stage teams to turn design ambiguity into data-driven action.

-Alysa

  • +300%User growthEnergy tech startup
  • $6MSeries A fundingUX overhaul
  • −40%Support ticketsOnboarding redesign
  • +$20kMonthly revenueB2B eCommerce launch
  • −25%Cart abandonmentB2B eCommerce

Researched, designed, and shipped work.

Product research and design for an industrial energy platform, turning operational data into clearer dashboards and roadmap direction.

300% user growth and $6M Series A

Product StrategyUI DesignUX Research

Responsible AI · Public Sector

How should a state education agency adopt AI responsibly?

Service design and research for a State Department of Education, covering stakeholder interviews, workflow analysis, and AI governance.

22 government employee interviews

Service DesignAI GovernancePolicy Review
Coming soon

B2B eCommerce Launch · 0→1

What was causing cart abandonment amongst B2B shoppers?

Supported the 0→1 launch of a B2B eCommerce experience through early prototyping, prototype testing, onboarding redesign, and checkout funnel research.

25% lower cart abandonment, +$20k/mo

UX ResearchProduct Design0→1 Launch
Coming soon

Ready for the next startup adventure.

Versatile and fast-moving, I bring end-to-end product design and UX research expertise to SaaS teams. I transform complex challenges into clear outcomes through data-driven decision making, and I confidently navigate ambiguity with an ownership mindset. I'm happiest locked in with a collaborative, fast-paced team with ambitious goals.

Mission Driven

Work that creates real change

Early Stage

0 → 1 is where I thrive

Player/Coach

Leading & doing; I roll up my sleeves

Bias to Action

Progress over perfection

All the Hats

No fixed lane. I do what needs doing

AI Fluent

Collaboration, not replacement

More about me

What happens when we build together.

Alysa is hands-down the best manager I've ever had. She's an empathetic, thoughtful leader who tailors her management approach to suit individual reports' circumstances and support their growth, and takes on tough conversations when needed.
Alysa is one of my favorite colleagues of all time. She is thoughtful, smart, collaborative, and really hones in on what strategy and tactics will have the biggest impact, with a data-based approach.
Her personable nature fosters meaningful connections with users, and her ability to glean profound insights from data is truly remarkable, making her an invaluable asset to any team.
As grad school peers, I valued Alysa's leadership on group projects, holding herself and others accountable. I admired her passion and commitment to using design, through research and making, to positively impact her community and the world.

And the teams I've worked alongside at

  • ndustrial.io
  • Twilio Segment
  • BlueCross BlueShield NC
  • Sealed Air
  • Pandora
  • Disney
  • NFL

Bring me the messy problem.
Ambiguity welcome.