Drawing inspiration from other ops disciplines: building the future of Research Ops

Research Operations (ReOps) is still the new kid on the block. But the good news? There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. Established ops functions like Design Ops, Product Ops, Sales Ops, and Rev Ops have already cracked the code on many of the challenges ReOps teams are tackling today.

By borrowing the best from these trailblazers, ReOps pros can skip the growing pains, streamline their workflows, and show their organizations what strategic impact really looks like. It’s like having a cheat sheet for success — and who doesn’t love a good shortcut?

What makes other ops functions successful?

What makes ops functions shine isn’t magic (though it can feel that way). It’s a solid mix of best practices that keep things running smoothly and driving results. Here are the must-haves:

• Clear frameworks and processes: Think of these as the instruction manual for success. Standardized workflows cut down on confusion and create the consistency teams can count on.
• Strategic alignment: When ops goals sync perfectly with organizational priorities, magic happens. Everything from workflows to research studies fits into the bigger picture, and leadership can’t help but take notice.
• Data-driven focus: Metrics are your BFF here. Showing the ROI of your efforts (in plain numbers, not jargon) builds trust and credibility.
• Cross-functional collaboration: Strong partnerships make all the difference. When teams connect and collaborate, innovation flows, and everyone works together toward a shared vision.

ReOps teams have every reason to take notes from these power moves. After all, learning from the best is how you become the best. Let’s get to it!

Shared challenges across ops disciplines

No matter the ops function, some challenges feel universal. ReOps is no different, facing hurdles that its peers in Design Ops, Product Ops, and Sales Ops know all too well. Tackling these challenges head-on can elevate ReOps into a powerhouse function that drives impact and growth.

Scalability

Let’s talk growth — specifically, the kind that doesn’t come with an expanded team budget. Managing increasing demands without piling more work on your already-busy crew calls for smarter processes, not just more hands. 

Automating tasks like participant management and recruitment can lighten the load. Tools like Rally are lifesavers here, streamlining workflows so teams can handle more without feeling overwhelmed.

Securing buy-in

Winning over leadership and stakeholders is less about shouting into the void and more about showing clear, undeniable value. The secret? Tangible metrics that connect research to business impact. Whether it’s faster recruitment or research directly shaping product success, data builds trust and credibility faster than words ever could.

Operational inefficiencies

Nothing drags a team down like outdated manual processes. Automating repetitive tasks saves time and keeps the team grounded. With the right tools, your team can focus on what really matters — uncovering insights and driving strategy — instead of wrestling with spreadsheets.

Measuring and demonstrating value

When you can point to clear wins, everyone takes notice. Use metrics to validate the impact of ReOps, such as:

• Time saved with automated scheduling and participant management
• Fewer drop-offs thanks to improved recruitment processes
• More completed studies due to smoother workflows
• Cost savings from streamlined operations

When your results are impossible to ignore, buy-in and budget follow.

Building a scalable research practice

Building a solid Research Ops practice is about creating systems that grow with your team’s needs. Continuous discovery is leading the charge, transforming research into a steady stream of insights that support every stage of the product lifecycle. This keeps research deeply connected to strategy and decisions.

Remote research is another game-changer for scalability. Tools like Rally simplify managing study participants, scheduling, and communication across different locations. This flexibility let's ReOps teams handle more projects while keeping workflows smooth and efficient.

Lessons ReOps can take from other ops functions

ReOps pros don’t have to figure it all out on their own. There are plenty of playbooks out there from other ops disciplines. Here are some strategies worth borrowing:

• Show your value with clear metrics: Data speaks louder than words. Track improvements in recruitment, participant satisfaction, and the role of research in shaping decisions. Use tools like Rally to share these insights through easy-to-read dashboards.
• Collaborate to build strong partnerships: Work with product teams to align research studies with their schedules. Partner with design teams to incorporate research findings into workflows. Create shared dashboards with Rev Ops to connect research data to business goals for the ultimate collaboration.
• Help teams see research as a superpower: ReOps isn’t just about doing the work. It’s about showing others how to use research to make better decisions. Host workshops, share quick tips, or create resources that make research approachable for everyone.

Tips for applying these lessons

ReOps teams have plenty of opportunities to turn inspiration into action. Here’s how to take these strategies and put them into action:

• Use tools built for remote work: Hybrid and remote work are here to stay. Rally makes it easy to connect with participants, schedule studies, and manage projects no matter where your team is.
• Track what matters and share it often: Highlight key wins, like reduced participant drop-offs or faster recruitment times. Create dashboards that make these insights easy to understand and share them regularly.
• Show how research drives results: ReOps isn’t a back-office function. It’s a strategic role that shapes decisions and improves outcomes. Use clear language to connect research activities to business success.

Driving the future of Research Ops

Research Ops is stepping into the spotlight as a key driver of customer-centered innovation. With smart frameworks, the right tools, and strong collaboration, ReOps teams can revolutionize how organizations understand their users and solve meaningful problems.

Scalable practices lay the groundwork, but the real magic happens as ReOps matures. Imagine shifting from managing daily operations to leading strategic initiatives that influence the direction of your company.

Tools like Rally are here to help you get there. By simplifying workflows and making it easier to collaborate, Rally gives ReOps teams the boost they need to scale their impact and focus on what really matters.

The potential for ReOps is huge. From shaping user-centered strategies to delivering measurable business outcomes, the opportunities are endless.

Ready to take the leap? Explore how Rally can transform your workflows and bring your research vision to life. Share this article with your team to spark fresh ideas and encourage collaboration — because the future of ReOps starts with you.