Process: Design Process

In this edition of Ask UXmatters, our expert panel looks at the importance of considering the fundamental principles of great design—not just UX design principles, but design principles in general. Our panel also discusses how great UX design takes place within organizations, looking at this topic on many different levels. How can you create great designs when working with a variety of designers with different backgrounds and while working within the constraints of project-defined goals? How can the presence of User Experience at the C-level and, in general, garnering support from the C-level affect our ability to implement great designs. How can we produce great designs in a repeatable manner? Keep reading for the answers to all of these important questions. Read More

In my previous columns, I’ve framed my discussions around the practice of information architecture. To recap, the DSIA Research Initiative—of which I am the curator—defines the practice of information architecture as “the effort of organizing and relating information in a way that simplifies how people navigate and use content on the Web.” While the practice of information architecture can surely extend beyond the Web and its content, this IA practice definition eschews theoretical language to resonate with businesses looking for concrete Web solutions and practitioners who want to make a living off something tangible.

In the end, business clients don’t pay practitioners to practice information architecture; they pay professionals to produce IA work products that help them to meet their business objectives. So, of the many professional interests that come together to create a digital experience, what work products make the practice of information architecture unique? Read More

We’re embarking on an increasingly automated future. By 2029, computers are likely to be more intelligent than humans, according to Ray Kurzweil, Director of Engineering at Google. Recent technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning can now support nonlinear, complex tasks that require logic—and, historically, human involvement as well. These innovations are transforming everything from the way financial technology, or fintech, startups offer financial advice to self-driving cars—and even smarter recommendations for the shows we stream on Netflix.

As automation increasingly plays an integral role in the complex products we create and use, we’re seeing great opportunities for automation to play a role in the future of UX design as well. Automation may be the next big thing to impact the entire industry of UX design—from optimizing the process of providing design feedback to transforming and streamlining the way product teams operate and increasing our ability to create compelling products. Read More