QRCA Views Summer 2025

Ever silently judged a participant’s odd food choice or offbeat opinion during research? You’re not alone—but learning to dismantle that judgment may be the key to deeper empathy and better insights. This article is a must-read for qualitative researchers and insights managers who want to sharpen their empathy muscle and build stronger connections with participants, even when faced with unexpected or unfamiliar behaviors. Through a blend of self-awareness and practical tools like the “Curious Breath,” the author shows how curiosity—not criticism—is the secret to unlocking richer stories and more impactful research outcomes. It’s a powerful reminder that great insights start with an open mind. […]

Globally, genderless beauty and semiotic design are reshaping the cultural meaning of skincare. Moving beyond traditional gendered marketing, it reveals how emerging visual codes, materials, and color systems invite consumers to express identity with greater fluidity and authenticity. Discover how semiotics, shifting aesthetics, and Gen Z and Gen Alpha are driving a more fluid, expressive, and value-driven beauty landscape. […]

Reviewed by Alexandru Dincovici, Owner, IziBiz Consulting, Associate Lecturer, University of Bucharest, NSPSPA, Bucharest, Romania, alex@meany.ng […]