Networking in the Pacific Northwest

CHIFOO - A monthly meeting in Portland of the Computer Human Interaction Forum of Oregon consisting of a no-host pre-dinner and a monthly speaker. 

PDX Design Research - Bi-monthly (every other) meet up for people in design, research, marketing. Usually consists of a speaker or panel with appetizers and drinks. 

​TAO of Oregon - Technology Association of Oregon hosts Ignite talks, start up events and all things tech.

Women in Research - A monthly meeting of women in all facets of research which takes place alternately in Seattle and Portland with appetizers and a few short talks. 

Books to Read

Designing for the Digital Age _- The quintessential bible of all things digital and research. Step by step instructions on creating wireframes, prototypes, personas etc. 

Subject to Change - An early book looking at the outside in approach to design and research. Also clarifies the difference between market research and design research. 

Things that make us Smart - "In Things That Make Us Smart, Donald A. Norman explores the complex interaction between human thought and the technology it creates, arguing for the development of machines that fit our minds, rather than minds that must conform to the machine."