Help on how you can get started and become a UX/UI designer based on my personal experiences and the advice of others.
The last time I was in college, I decided I wanted to go into the field of design and be a UX/UI Designer. Being a person with an education that includes Computer Science and Finance and previous experience being an investment banker I was unsure of how I would be able to transform the direction of my career!
Here are some things I’ve done or am doing right now that have assisted me in my journey to become a UX/UI Designer (the next step is finding a full-time job).
1. Explore the subject of what UX, as well as UI Design, are and see whether it’s something you need to accomplish
I personally believe it’s a good idea to be a UX (or UI Designer a great job, however, before you commit to the time and effort to do it and possibly some money, take time looking into the work that UX, as well as UI designers, do, what distinctions between them are and so on. to determine if it’s something you’re interested in committing to.
2. Find out what strengths and skills you already have and the ways they can be utilized in UX as well. UI Design
Even if you’re from an entirely distinct experience (like me) I’m sure you have some knowledge that can translate to UX/UI Design. For instance, do you enjoy thinking about ways the things you do around your house could get better? Do you enjoy sketching or taking pictures? Are you a data or analysis genius?
Each of these abilities or interests can provide something that can aid you in your career to become a successful UX/UI designer, so don’t be afraid to use your previous knowledge and experiences simply because they aren’t directly connected!
3. Create a strategy for learning the fundamentals of design
Although you don’t have to return to college or invest many dollars and time to obtain an official degree, I would suggest making some kind of plan to study techniques for designing various tools, and deliverables, such as prototyping and wireframing, for example.
If you are a fantastic planner and motivated, you can make content from the internet and master everything you can on your own. A few great video sources include sites such as Lynda and Coursera.
Another option is enrolling in a UX Bootcamp (this is what I did). If you’re fortunate enough to reside in a large city such as San Francisco or New York City an option that is popular can be a General Assembly.
For those who reside in a tiny city or in the far reaches of nowhere, there are many online bootcamps that offer excellent learning opportunities. Two that I initially explored are DesignLab’s UX Academy and Career Foundry’s UX Design Course.
I chose the DesignLab UX Academy based on a thorough analysis of the course’s content and the numerous reviews that praise the instructors and staff at DesignLab. I took classes at DesignLab for 20 hours per week for six months. The program comprises lessons that teach fundamentals of design and also activities that you can do yourself, where you learn through doing.
4. Do you have projects?
If you’re taking a class or you’re learning by yourself, be sure you do as many projects as you possibly can (you’ll require them to build a portfolio). The most effective method to come to an idea for a project is to look around and consider how you can make it better. Are there websites or an app you enjoy and think needs improvement? Create a new project and then go through the whole creation process to learn excellent practice!
As part of the purpose of one project, I designed allergies using a mobile application. I came up with the idea I was at my clinic, waiting to receive an injection and I heard people complain about how they never remember to go to the clinic for their injections.
Allergy Injection Mobile App Project
If you’re able to, I would highly suggest seeking out opportunities to collaborate with other developers or designers in order to develop an excellent skill to possess in the event of looking for work.
5. Practice design
Alongside projects, you can take advantage of design as often as you can! Continue to learn and use new software like Sketch and Adobe Photoshop as well as Adobe Illustrator. Learn some of the tutorials available at TutsPlus along with creating some cute and cool objects to work on. Another thing you can do is 100 days in UI.
If you’ve got the time I’d recommend also learning about front-end programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It’s never hurt to be familiar with these.
6. Create a portfolio
If you’re looking to find an employment opportunity or performing any work that involves the design, you’ll require a portfolio that will present the projects you’ve worked on and also introduce yourself.
If you’re solely focused on UX and design, you could manage with a simple and simple portfolio that is focused on your work and the design process. If you’re planning to start a career in UI job at all but want to get started, I’d suggest taking some time to build your personal branding and making sure that things appear great.
To create my portfolio, I utilized Webflow using its Valentino theme that I tweaked slightly. If you are familiar with using HTML and CSS I strongly recommend Webflow because it provides the most flexibility in design than other sites such as Squarespace as well as Wix.
7. Make your mark online
Alongside your portfolio, you should make sure to keep your profile updated on LinkedIn (or create an account if you’re not already) and stay active on social media sites such as Twitter, Dribble, and Behance. Follow the people you are a fan of, post tweets about design, post articles that you find interesting, and upload the works you’ve created to share in the world of design. These are all fantastic sites to put your name in the public domain and become a participant in the world of design online!
8. Write blogs
My mentor suggested I begin writing blog posts to communicate my thoughts. It’s also an excellent way for employers to gain an understanding of who you are and what you think. Don’t be intimidated to write about your experiences or any other topic you think is interesting!
9. Keep up-to-date with the latest design news and trends.
There are many amazing websites where it is possible to read subjects like technology news designs, trends in design, ideas, and more. The top ones include UX Magazine, Smashing Magazine, and UX Booth. Personally, I enjoy surfing around on Medium and reading the posts There are plenty of detailed, excellent posts available on the site.
10. Read books
The books are a fantastic option to gain greater depth on specific topics. Here is a list of books that I’ve read and found extremely informative, interesting, and entertaining to read:
The Design of Everyday Things, Don Norman
Don’t Make Me Think, Steve Krug
Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days, Jake Knapp
Color for Designers, Jim Krause
Lessons in Typography, Jim Krause
11. Get in touch with designers and others in the community
Start establishing connections with designers you like or with people from firms that would be a good fit for you to join. Find their email addresses and send an informal message asking questions about their work. Then, ask to meet them to have a coffee or for an informal chat. Some people will not respond to you, but I can assure you that many of them will be more than happy to meet with you and share their expertise with you!
12. You should keep a notebook in your bag
This is among my favorite activities. Purchase a quality notebook and pen and take them with you every day. Note down any thoughts you think of, note down notes on the things you’ve learned, or write down your ideas that spark your imagination, and try sketching whenever you can.