UX and UI are probably two of the most commonly confused aspects of any technology design process. One can’t work without the other or rather one doesn’t work well without the other. They are entirely different but work harmoniously together, creating a great interactive product that consumers want to use. So while it is common for people to confuse them, everyone should know the difference.
UX vs. UI, What Is The Difference?
User experience (UX) is design that is focused towards the user’s feelings when interacting with the product. It boils down to on a basic level making the user comfortable and happy when using the product or service. It’s the design of friendliness and ease of use, making sure the user can achieve what they want effectively.
User interface (UI) is directly focused upon what the user sees and physically interacts with. Buttons, scrolling, search bar and any other features that require the user to interact with the product. Combining these with the placement of visuals and information are the key features of UI design.
The Approach and Focus
UX approach is a very broad discipline and is easy to see why it can be confused with UI. It affects aspects like the terminology used, colors, accessibility, flow, focus, and creating an enjoyable experience. Making the user feel a certain way when using your product or service, and always considering the needs of the user is what creates a good UX design.
A UI approach, on the other hand, is easier to assess. It approaches the design process and looks directly at the interfaces’ components and takes into account the general behavior of a user. Focusing on component placements, size, ease of reach and overall look and feel of what’s in front of the user.
The Skills Involved
A difference is also the skills involved to apply and design both of these effectively. They do both have transferable skills that will apply to both areas, but there’s also some specialized hard skills that UX and UI designers need to have.
Transferable skills:
- Customer service
- Graphic design
- Research
- Project management
UX:
- Prototyping and wireframes
- Information architecture
- Usability testing
- User research
- User analysis
UI:
- Visual branding
- Typography
- Color theory
- Icon design
- Responsive design
- Interactivity and animation
Should you compare UX and UI? The short answer is, no. If you ask a UX and a UI designer, they will tell you that they aren’t comparable. This is because they are two different things that focus on different aspects of the design process.
It’s like comparing a tea bag to drinking the tea itself. It’s vastly different, and you can’t have one without the other. The differences should not be confusing, everyone should understand they are two very different things to begin with.
If you want to discuss UI and UX further, you are welcome to get in touch with us at Axis Software Dynamics. Our team consists of experienced individuals who know how to make UI and UX designs that work for your business.
