The Difference Between UX and UI Design

 

Since the inception of the word “UX” by Donald Norman in 1995, UI and UX have been thrown around in designing conversations like confetti. Only those closely associated with the field of design understand the thin line of difference between the two terms. Otherwise, most of the time, UX and UI are used interchangeably.

 

As an aspiring designer, it is necessary to know the difference between UX and UI design. Don’t worry; the following article can be used for reference to understand the difference between UI and UX.

 

So, without any further ado, let’s begin the learning!

What is the Difference Between UI and UX Design?

 

Several facets differ when it comes to UI and UX design. We have segregated them for better understanding.

Meaning

 

User Interface (UI) focuses on building interfaces in software by prioritizing style or looks. The primary purpose is to create interfaces that are easy to use and navigate.

 

User Experience (UX) involves the process of creating interactive designs that facilitate a connection between humans and technology. It is based on research and data analysis.

History

 

The term “UI” was first developed by Alan Key, Douglas Engelbart, and others at Xerox PARC in 1981. It was known as GUI at that point.

 

Apple used GUI for the first time to introduce Lisa, a computer used for personal use.

 

User Experience was first used by Donald Norman at Apple in the early ’90s to streamline human interface research.

Examples

 

Some of the most prominent examples of UI include:

 

  • Pinterest’s waterfall effect
  • Cognito’s custom animation
  • Mailchimp’s usability
  • Hello Monday’s white space

 

Examples of UX include:

 

  • Airbnb’s booking experience
  • Netflix’s autoplay features
  • Mailchimp’s password guidance
  • Todoist’s recurring tasks feature

Responsibilities 

 

A UI designer is responsible for the following factors:

 

  • Spacing
  • Animation
  • Responsive design
  • Inclusive design
  • Colors
  • Imagery
  • Typography

 

A UX designer is responsible for the following factors:

 

  • Understanding the brand
  • Conducting research
  • Design
  • User testing

Skills Required

 

The following skills are a prerequisite when it comes to UI design:

 

  • Creativity and design
  • Attention to detail
  • Technical skills
  • Communication
  • Teamwork

 

The following skills are required when it comes to UX design:

 

  • Visual communication
  • Research
  • Information Architecture
  • Prototyping
  • Wireframing

UX vs. UI designers: How do they work together?

 

Now that we have understood the difference between UI and UX, how does it affect functionality? Can both types of designers work together?

 

Let’s find out.

 

Despite the significant differences, UX and UI design are correlated to each other. In a way, they are dependent on each other. The right combination of UI and UX determines the overall functionality and appearance of the final product.

 

For example, UI makes the flower beautiful, and UX gives it an alluring fragrance. UI is responsible for making the website visually appealing, and UX is responsible for making it easy to navigate.

 

Considering both sides of the story, it is safe to say that UI and UX go hand-in-hand.

UI vs. UX- Which one should you specialize in?

 

The integral point of understanding the difference between UI and UX is it helps one comprehend their capability. Furthermore, this aids one in understanding their substantial issues when it comes to choosing between the two.

 

However, the world is dynamic, and industries keep changing their requirements. Since it is challenging to say what the future holds, designers must specialize in both- UI and UX.

 

Not only does it strengthen the profile of the designer, but it also allows the designer to hold a better chance of landing a secure, well-paying job.

 

Learn UI/UX Design with Felix-ITs

 

UI/UX does not require a set list of qualifications. The proper knowledge and skill set can help one land a well-paying job. But it doesn’t hurt to be a certified UI/UX designer, and Felix-ITs can fill those lines of expectations.

 

With Felix-ITs’ comprehensive UI/UX course, one can get all the necessary knowledge and practical skills. With a complete syllabus and industry experts as mentors, this course can be your stepping stone in UI/UX design.

 

Additionally, this course offers online flexibility, allowing working professionals to make a career change without altering their schedules. Moreover, loan assistance and guaranteed placements are one of the benefits that one can reap from this course.

 

So, what are you waiting for? Channel your creativity with our UI/UX design course and carve yourself a thriving career!

 

 

 

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