How to get into UX design

With the ongoing digitization of operations and functions in different sectors, the demand for more sophisticated and user-friendly apps and websites has been on a steady rise. This means more companies are looking for qualified and experienced designers who can offer them quality UI/UX design services. So, if you want to move your web/app design career to the next level, this article tells you everything you need to know about getting into UI/UX design.

What is UI/UX design?

Before you even think about how to get into UX design, you need to understand what UI/UX design means. User interface (UI) designs and user experience (UX) designs involve creating designs that are aesthetically pleasing and friendly to the user. If you are wondering what a UX designer does, they’re responsible for creating designs that give the user the best experience when navigating the app or website.

The appearance and functionality of an app’s user interface contribute a lot to its success or failure. As a UX designer, you’re responsible for creating designs that make the app or web comprehensible, navigable, and appealing to the intended user. You are also responsible for conducting user tests and usability tests before the app or website goes live. These tests are meant to help you identify potential glitches with the user interface and the app or website and devise the best solutions before the final product is officially launched.

How to become a UX designer

With the growing demand for UX design services, UX design has become one of the most popular careers in the world. More web and software designers are increasingly choosing UX design as their specialty. If you want to be a UX designer, there are several important steps you have to take:

Identifying your areas of interest

Because the field of UX design is quite broad, you have to find your area of specialization in which you can consistently deliver the best results. For example, you can choose to be a UX designer, UX researcher, or UX writer–once you understand your specialty, you can easily harness your hard and soft skills to deliver the best services.

Getting the necessary training

To succeed in UX design, you need to undergo the necessary training. A UX designer is responsible for the most important aspects of an app or website. Therefore, you need the expertise and knowledge to create high-quality designs that provide the best user experience. You can either take an online UX design course, join a local college program, or teach yourself how to design.

Getting a mentor

The best way to familiarize yourself with the world of UX design is to get a mentor. This isn’t a trainer; rather, it’s someone who has had a successful career in UX design. Such a person will give you important advice on various aspects of your career and help you get a job as a UX designer. Your mentor will provide insight into solving UX design problems and help you manage your career.

Getting practical skills

Put your newly acquired skills into practice–you can either enroll in a trainee program at a local company or design your own apps or sites for fun. Additionally, you can volunteer as a freelance trainee at a web design agency. This will help you harness your skills and gain enough experience to handle major design projects.

Creating a portfolio

With the skills and practical experience, it’s time to put together an impressive portfolio. A portfolio helps convince potential clients that you have what it takes to create great UX designs.

Finding a UX design job

You can either work as a freelance UX designer or get a full-time job at your favorite web and software design company. Luckily, many online job sites offer UX design opportunities. So, find a project that matches your qualifications and send in your application.