The term 'UIUX' has long sparked debate, often leading to inconclusive discussions about the distinct responsibilities within this dual role. But can we coherently define what a UIUX designer truly does without any ambiguity?
At Hyperfuse, many of us are trained as Interaction Designers, a role that historically encompassed a broad range of responsibilities now often segmented into specialized positions. The current perception of a UIUX designer, however, tends to be viewed as a generalist role. This role is seen as responsible for interface usability and post-implementation justifications of design decisions, often through superficial user validation exercises.
But let's break it down. Is it not the role of a UI designer to ensure the usability of an interface? Can an interface be designed without considering its usability? Is usability the sole marker of successful UX?
We believe there’s more to UX than what meets the eye. At Hyperfuse, we uphold that the core of UX lies in extensive research. It involves understanding the habits, regional behaviors, needs, goals, and aspirations of user groups. This research forms the foundation for determining market fit and presenting products in a way that users can fully engage with their intended functionality.
This research serves as a cornerstone for our product teams, guiding the development process. Here, design is about shaping user flows and solutions before diving into wireframes, typography, or visuals.
In conclusion, while the term 'UIUX' may suggest a blend of user interface and user experience, the reality is that UX encompasses a far broader scope, often overshadowed by the more visible aspects of UI. As we look towards the future of UX (a topic for another post), it's clear that the real essence of UX has been somewhat diluted in the fusion of these roles. This complexity continues to be a topic of debate and a 'skeleton in the closet' in the design world.
