Activision's user research employees form a union

Activision's user research employees have opted to form a union.

The Communications Workers of America (CWA) announced that a large majority of Microsoft's personnel voted in favor of forming a union, a move officially acknowledged by Microsoft. This union is the first of its kind among video game user researchers, joining more than 2,000 workers at Microsoft subsidiaries under a neutrality agreement with the CWA.

Nicolaas VanMeerten, part of the organizing committee and a quantitative user researcher, commented on their enthusiasm to join other industry workers, expressing that the union aims to build worker solidarity, especially in response to workforce reductions in 2023 and 2024. VanMeerten emphasized the protection and support a union provides for colleagues.

User research in gaming plays a crucial role by gathering player feedback to inform development teams. This process bridges the communication gap between game creators and players by involving gamers directly in studio settings.

Pat Dimaandal, another organizing committee member and user research moderator, stated that forming a union helps create a supportive industry environment. The goal is to prevent workers from being penalized for working in a field they are passionate about, promoting sustainable careers.

Maurice Washington, President of CWA Local 9400, highlighted the importance of workers having a voice to ensure they receive deserved compensation and protections. CWA welcomes these workers and anticipates meeting with Microsoft to establish a fair union contract.

By joining a union, user researchers aim to secure better pay, job stability, and more transparent career progression amid significant job cuts within the gaming industry.

Recently, the CWA criticized former Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick, challenging his claims that reports of harassment during his tenure were unfounded. More details on this development can be found here.