Activision's user research employees form a union

Employees involved in user research at Activision have opted to form a union.

A statement from the Communications Workers of America (CWA) announced that a significant majority of the Microsoft-affiliated workforce voted for union representation, with Microsoft acknowledging the union's formation.

The CWA noted that the establishment of the Activision User Research Union-CWA represents the first unionization of video game user researchers, joining the ranks of over 2,000 organized workers at Microsoft-affiliated studios under the company’s agreed-upon neutrality with CWA.

"We are thrilled to align with other game creators across the industry, illustrating what can be achieved when employees unite in solidarity at work," stated Nicolaas VanMeerten, an organizing committee member and quantitative user researcher. He mentioned that the collective was prompted to act following the layoffs in 2023 and 2024, and the union now enables them to support each other.

User research in the gaming realm involves examining players’ feedback, behaviors, and necessities to furnish development teams with valuable insights. Hosting players in their studios, user researchers connect game designers with their audience.

Pat Dimaandal, a user research moderator and organizing committee member, commented, "Having a union empowers workers to shape an industry conducive to their needs, crucial for an industry we are passionate about. Pursuing a beloved career should not come with penalties, which is why we aim for enduring, sustainable careers in this sector."

Maurice Washington, President of CWA Local 9400, expressed, "It is vital for workers to have a protected platform to ensure equitable treatment. We are eager to welcome these members to CWA and look forward to negotiating with Microsoft for a fair union contract."

CWA elaborated that through union membership, user researchers strive to achieve notable enhancements in their working conditions, such as increased pay, job stability, and safeguards amid substantial industry layoffs, coupled with clearer pathways for promotions and career progress.

Recently, the CWA criticized ex-Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick for his remarks regarding alleged harassment reports during his tenure, which he described as "fake."