Introduction to Graphic Design and UX
Graphic design and User Experience (UX) are two disciplines that are closely related and yet distinct. Graphic design is focused on creating visual communication, while UX involves designing the overall experience of using a product or service.
In this article, we will explore the journey of an individual who started learning graphic design and went on to become a Senior Product Designer and delve into their responsibilities throughout the UX process.
Learning Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
Learning Adobe Creative Suite is often the first step in becoming a graphic designer. Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop are two of the most popular programs that are used extensively in the design industry.
They allow users to create and edit graphics, illustrations, and images. These design tools are versatile and can be used for various purposes, such as designing logos, creating marketing materials, and developing websites.
Our subject started learning Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop in high school. They used these programs to create art and designs for various projects in their art class.
With time, they fell in love with these creative tools and decided to pursue a career in graphic design.
Teaching her art teacher and classmates graphic design
After gaining proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, our individual started helping others learn graphic design. They noticed that their art classmates and teacher were struggling with the software and decided to lend a helping hand.
They began by teaching their peers the basics of using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. This experience proved to be beneficial for both parties involved.
By explaining the software to others, our individual was able to master the basics and become proficient in Adobe Creative Suite. Additionally, they discovered that they enjoyed teaching, which eventually led them down the path of becoming a Senior Product Designer.
Discovering UX and building app prototypes
As our individual’s passion for graphic design grew, they discovered UX design. UX design involves designing the overall experience of using a product or service, including its usability, accessibility, and desirability.
They began by designing app prototypes for their school projects, and later on, for their portfolio. This increased their knowledge and skill set, as they learned about the user-centered design process, wireframing, prototyping, user testing, and more.
It was a natural progression from graphic design, as UX design combines aesthetics with functionality. Our individual soon realized that their interest in UX could lead to a career path in creating products that people can use and love.
Career Journey and Responsibilities as Senior Product Designer
Landing a job as a UX Designer at Bullhorn
After graduating from college, our individual landed their first job as a UX Designer at Bullhorn. Bullhorn is a leading provider of cloud-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software for the staffing and recruiting industry.
They were responsible for designing the user experience of Bullhorn’s software applications.
Promoted to Senior Product Designer
Our individual’s proficiency and experience as a UX Designer allowed them to be promoted to the position of Senior Product Designer. As Senior Product Designer, they were responsible for leading design projects and mentoring junior designers.
They also had a say in the design direction of Bullhorn’s products.
Responsibilities in the user experience process
As Senior Product Designer, our individual was an integral part of the user experience process. They conducted user research, created user personas, designed wireframes, built prototypes, and conducted user testing.
They collaborated with developers, product managers, and other stakeholders to create products that met the needs of the end-users. Complete redesign of Bullhorn’s core product
One of the most significant projects our individual worked on was the complete redesign of Bullhorn’s core product.
They conducted user research to understand the users’ pain points, needs, and goals. They used this information to design a new user interface that was easy to use and visually appealing.
They then created wireframes and prototypes and conducted user testing to validate their designs. The redesign was a success, and Bullhorn’s users appreciated the changes, which ultimately led to improved user engagement and customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
The journey of our individual from learning graphic design to becoming a Senior Product Designer is an inspiration for those interested in pursuing a career in design. It demonstrates that through hard work, dedication, and a love for learning, one can achieve their goals.
Graphic design and UX are often intertwined, but they require a different set of skills. By mastering Adobe Creative Suite, gaining experience in UX design, and taking on leadership roles, our individual was able to become a Senior Product Designer.
With the ever-evolving design industry, we can expect more exciting developments in the future.
Skills Needed for Product or UX Design
Designing a product or UX requires a wide range of skills that extend beyond traditional graphic design practices. Here are some essential skills that are necessary for product or UX design.
Visual design, interactions, and information architecture
Visual design includes the overall look and feel of a product or system. This includes elements such as color, typography, layout, and composition.
Interactions include all the ways in which users can interact with a product, including buttons, swipes, and animations. Information architecture refers to the organization and structure of information, including the navigation system and hierarchy.
Envisioning how a design will scale
Designers must keep in mind the scalability of the design they are creating. This means that the product must be designed to function seamlessly as it grows, with the same level of quality and user experience regardless of its size.
Designers must envision how a design will scale and build it in a modular way that is flexible and adaptable.
Importance of showcasing your process in the portfolio
A portfolio is an essential aspect of a product or UX designer’s career. It showcases your skills, knowledge, and experience to potential employers.
However, it is not enough to only present the final result. Your process and design thinking behind your work are also critical.
Including sketches, wireframes, and design iterations in your portfolio demonstrates how you approach design challenges and how you arrived at your final design.
Advice for Breaking into Product or UX Design
Breaking into product or UX design is not an easy task. However, there is a range of tools, resources, and advice available for aspiring designers to get started.
Here are some essential tips to help you break into product or UX design.
Importance of doing research on your own and having a portfolio
One of the most important things to do when breaking into product or UX design is research. Research the types of products and services you are interested in working on, and learn as much as you can about them.
Develop a portfolio that showcases your skills and thinking. It doesn’t have to be a perfect portfolio, but it should illustrate your design process and thinking.
Suggestions of UX design bootcamps for those without art and design school experience
UX design bootcamps are a great option for those without an art and design school background. These bootcamps offer a complete UX design education that includes everything from design thinking to user testing, prototyping, and more.
There are several options to choose from, including General Assembly, Designation, and Bloc. These bootcamps offer various programs that cater to a wide range of experience levels and interests.
To be successful as a product or UX designer, it is essential to have a wide range of skills in areas such as visual design, interactions, and information architecture. It is just as important to envision how a design will scale and build it in a modular way that is flexible and adaptable.
Similarly, designers must also keep in mind that their portfolio is the most critical asset for showcasing their skills, knowledge, and experience. Therefore, it is important that the portfolio showcases not just the final product but also the process behind their work.
Finally, for aspiring designers without an art and design school education, UX design bootcamps are an excellent way of getting a comprehensive UX design education. Product and UX design require a diverse skill set that extends beyond traditional graphic design practices.
Visual design, interactions, information architecture, and scalability are all crucial for a successful design. Additionally, the process behind each design is essential, and designers should ensure their portfolio showcases that.
Those interested in breaking into product or UX design should conduct thorough research and consider enrolling in UX design bootcamps. By mastering these skills and keeping up with current design trends, aspiring designers could break into an exciting and rewarding career path.