You have been thinking of getting into UI/UX design. Your research on what it entails has you doing tons of research. It is a commendable move because it allows you to prepare yourself. Without a doubt, it is an exciting path with possibilities for career growth. If you are in this position, you are in the right place.
Our article will share 7 skills every effective UX/UI designer must-have. Let’s dive into a more in-depth exploration of the topic.
UX VS UI, understanding the difference
Some people use UX and UI interchangeably. Yet, there is a distinct difference between the two. The User Experience (UX) refers to how a customer interacts and experiences a product or service.
Take a website, for example. What is the experience for the end-user when they visit the site? Is it user-friendly and easy to navigate? Do the pages load quickly and is the information relevant. All this will determine the experience the user has when interacting with the brand on that specific platform.
UI, on the other hand, are the specific factors that lead to a pleasant UX. Think about it as what happens in the background. For the website, we would look at typography, color, functionality, and even visual elements.
Even with the differences, some of the roles may overlap. So, both UX and UI designers must possess specific skills.
1. Research skills
One of the things you will have in your coursework when you sign up for expert training courses is research skills. Both fields require both qualitative and quantitative data to guide their processes.
It is the best way to understand the market and audience needs. Planning, research skills, and analysis will be a part of your daily activities.
2. Ability to visualize
Both UX and UI designers should have the ability to visualize. Creating scenarios that are translatable into the end product is essential. Things like layout, color, icons, and typography start with visual conceptualization.
3. Wireframing and prototyping skills
A wireframe is a blueprint. It gives you an idea of how the final product will work.It has nothing to do with the final look. You must have a good idea of what elements or components you want.
A prototype is all about ensuring functionality before constructing the final product. Let us take the example of coming up with a web page. You need to check things like navigation and site functionality. The designers use mockups for such purposes.
Both processes require the designers to make quick decisions. You decide what to add, omit and how to position the different elements. All these go towards ensuring an excellent experience for end-users.
4. Writing skills
Writing skills are especially critical for UX designers. You should be able to translate and communicate the client’s needs well in the final messaging. Remember, the end-user has no use for coding language. They may not even be aware of what it entails. However, concise copy that shows product attributes and functionality is vital to them.
5. Coding and development skills
It is important, though not an absolute necessity, to have some coding knowledge. Think about your long-term career path. Learn basic coding languages like CSS and HTML. It frees you from depending on other people for tasks you could complete with minor coding knowledge. It also helps with communicating with the software engineers.
You will need to learn how to use different design tools. Such include Sketch, Axure, Webflow, Craft, and Adobe. Every designer has their preference, and you will find what works for you as your career picks.
6. Persuasion and business skills
Design is one aspect but getting the end-user to use the product is the next? The UX and UI designers should have excellent persuasion skills.
The modern world requires designers to have a good understanding of the business environment. Strategy meetings, presentations, and even financial management are critical skills to have.
7. Soft or interpersonal skills
Soft skills are an innate part of your human nature. Such include situational awareness and emotional intelligence.
- Collaboration and teamwork
There is a lot of work that goes into UX and UI designs. Design, coding, marketing, and project management are some of them. Teamwork and collaboration will ensure project success. You must learn to communicate clearly.
Listening to others and accepting input is also important. Giving and accepting criticism will also make the collaboration process better.
- Empathy
Empathy allows the UX and UI designers to view the processes from the end-users perspective. The designers can only provide a solution if they understand the problem.
- Continuous learning and curiosity
Designers have a thirst for knowledge and the desire to create constantly. The right product could always become better. One solution is not enough; end users need more options. It could explain why the career path is so exciting.
- Critical thinking
If the brain of a critical thinker were a street, it would be a very busy one. Concepts are always flying around. Analysis, synthesis, observations, and reasoning lead to action. You cannot sell an assumption or idea to a critical thinker without them questioning it. You must also have excellent foresight and a good understanding of your mental processes.
- Flexibility
Flexibility requires you to not exist only within the boundaries you have set for yourself. It requires you to embrace or at least accept feedback. It is about recognizing you could be wrong and could use some help. You should also be able to adapt to situations when the need arises.
Final thoughts
We have looked at 7 skills every effective UX/UI designer must-have. Both work at providing solutions to identified customer needs. There is a lot of personal development before you fully realize your potential as a designer.
Soft skills are essential in these careers. Communication, flexibility, empathy, and curiosity are vital. Creativity and a constant search for knowledge and solutions are critical.
The industry is always evolving. With technology comes new ways to do things. Without a doubt, you will enjoy your career.