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In this article I would like to talk about what I believe are 5 elements that are critical and should be taken into account by every UX designer, the ultimate “UX designer skills” required to do the job.
Ivan Chermayeff, a UX design expert once said that “Design is directed toward human beings. To design is to solve human problems by identifying them and executing the best solution.”
That is a designer’s duty, and a designer always thinks based on customer standpoints.
5 UX designer skills
1. Think differently
This is the difference between a professional designer and a beginner. Like Steve Jobs, you need to know what people are waiting for and what they would like to get. Steve Jobs was always ahead of competition and clients desires. He made people want his products. He thought a lot about what kind of product would change people’s way of living, what product would be different from others while creating value. By the way, it was him who thought about a magnetic charger and today, it is very used because it is more convenient than other options people got used to. And users are essential parts of the design process.
His products are visible. He is visible. Now most of the people buy Apple products because they consider that Apple’s design is the best. He makes people talk about his products. Also, he constantly participated in different events, where he shared his vision and where he described how his products could be used and why UX design was the best.
A designer should work deeply towards what users wants. But it would be even better if a designer could provide a product, which exceeds people’s expectations. You know, creating the WOW effect.
2. Brainstorm
It sounds crazy, but it’s true! You need to come up with crazy ideas, products that don’t exist and that people never even thought about. Unusual and new products attract people’s attention. This is a chance to be a leader, an innovator. But don’t forget one thing, most of the time you don’t need to reinvent the wheel, you just need to make it work better. Are you able to think outside the box? You should keep that in mind when you are trying to figure out if you have the UX designer skills required to do the job!
3. Adapt to the market’s needs & trends
Being aware of what’s going on out there is a must. It is not only about using the latest trends but being critical about them. Like in business, they are sensitive to every change in the market and they need to adapt to current industry trends. A good designer knows how to adapt to client’s needs and at the same time how to be the first who uses new technologies.
4. Customer centric approach
In the design process, you often exchange information with your stakeholders to have a unified point of view. It is a designer obligation to keep a balance between what customer wants and what users really want.
5. Gain diverse experience
The more you know, the richer you are. Time and knowledge – 2 things that can not be robbed and this is your competitive advantage! If you have diverse experience, then you can see the picture not only from 1 or 2 angles, you can see it in 5D dimension and come up with brilliant ideas and unforgettable products.
“Today knowledge has power. It controls access to opportunity and advancement.” Peter Drucker
