Why I Don't Focus Just on UX Design Anymore
Discover more from SenseMake by Zach Hill
Why I Don't Focus Just on UX Design Anymore
Exploring what it means to be working in design in 2023
I remember back in 2014 when I was first introduced to the concept of UX design. I had recently graduated with a degree in art and graphic design, and I was just beginning my journey in web design. It was during this time that I discovered videos by Jose Caballer on UX strategy and design. I fell in love with the notion that there existed a type of design focused on collaborating with others to create user-friendly digital experiences.
In the past, I used to view UX design as a kind of magic (and sometimes I still do).
However, today I find myself pondering what lies ahead. What are the new frontiers of design that I can explore? How can I leverage my knowledge to assist more people than I currently am?
My interest in UX design remains, I must admit that the title of this blog post may be a bit clickbaity. I am still engaged in providing UX services, and I don't foresee leaving my job in the near future. Nevertheless, I feel compelled to shift my focus beyond just UX, towards areas like service and strategic design. I have already begun incorporating service design mindsets into my daily work, yielding positive outcomes.
Yet, I digress; the title of this article pertains to the reasons behind my change in focus. Keeping this in mind, I'd like to outline some reasons why I'm redirecting my attention towards sustainable services rather than solely UX design:
Our most complex and challenging design issues extend beyond the confines of a screen. This isn't to say that I oppose technology or screen design; rather, I believe there's room for greater emphasis on understanding how our technology impacts society and the planet. Many online discussions on platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter revolve around the latest Figma features, distinctions between UI and UX, and how artificial intelligence can enhance our skills as UX designers. I don't suggest avoiding these discussions, but I would like to see more UX designers explore topics that have broader implications for people and the environment. While I started as a graphic and web designer, I can certainly geek out about button styles, auto-layout, and typography – just like anyone else. However, I encourage fellow designers and UX practitioners to also delve into the realm of intricate design problems that affect both people and the planet as a whole.
Numerous companies are transforming the practice of UX into a manipulative one. We often overlook dark patterns that infiltrate our digital products and services, all while unquestioningly following stakeholder directives to "do whatever it takes to get users to perform desired actions." I am grateful that my company and clients prioritize the well-being of users, but I recognize that not all UX designers are in such fortunate positions. Many find themselves isolated and tasked with churning out features to boost quantitative metrics, solely with the goal of maximizing profits. I don't believe pursuing profitability is inherently wrong, but I do assert that it shouldn't come at the expense of serving people. In fact, I contend that companies can achieve even greater profitability by prioritizing the welfare of people and the planet.
My focus is becoming more and more about serving people and the planet, not just "users." This aligns somewhat with point 2, and I may have touched upon it before, but the longer I work in the design field, the more I grow to dislike the term "user." This term essentially dehumanizes the individuals we aim to assist, reducing them to mere statistics on spreadsheets. I'm reminded of a quote by Edward Tufte that remains etched in my mind: "There are only two industries that call their customers 'users': illegal drugs and software." I am also striving to extend my practice beyond aiding people and contribute to the well-being of the planet. While I am admittedly a novice in the realm of planet-centric and sustainable design, I believe that discarding the "user" mentality could only benefit my quest for knowledge and grasp of sustainable design principles.
My motivations aren't entirely altruistic. I've mentioned this in previous content, but I'd like to reiterate that the skills at which I excel happen to align with a different approach to design than traditional UX. Undoubtedly, skills like collaboration and workshop facilitation, qualitative research, and prototype design hold value in the UX domain. However, I've noticed that they gain even greater significance when applied to designing for services or holistic experiences.
In conclusion, despite the somewhat provocative title of this blog post, my concern for UX remains genuine. However, I now perceive UX, particularly for screen experiences, as one component of a broader conversation and design practice. As I've mentioned earlier, I still function as a UX practitioner. However, I am continually seeking opportunities to view and apply my work through the lenses of service and strategic design.
My favorite things of the week
Seta Tajima, wrote a Linkedin post this week about the devastating fires in Maui that included links to donate to local disaster relief efforts.
Kudos to WWF on their clever take on the Twitter/X shenanigans:
If you are interested in what design can do there literally is a website dedicated to that very topic.
Marina Krutchinsky outlines some great UX misconceptions in one of her most recent Linkedin posts.
And finally Kyle Adams tweeted out a great way to look at success:
