In the ever-evolving world of design, User Experience plays a pivotal role in shaping the way we interact digitally. This week, we sat down with our UX Designer Ellie to find out more about her role, the creative process and how she’s constantly striving to make our digital world more user-friendly.
Where do you draw the most inspiration?
Loads of places! I use Dribbble for specific pieces of inspiration, Godly for animation inspiration, but I mostly work in collaboration with our clients to understand their inspiration.
When starting a project, I conduct lots of competitor analysis to gain a deeper understanding of what other companies are doing right. I also find lots of inspiration in what they have done wrong in the past – this helps fuel fresher ideas!
What is your favourite part of the design process?
This differs from project to project, but I really enjoy the new challenges that come with each project and working hard to solve these. I also love the initial UX research stages and the process of applying these insights into new designs.
How do you overcome creative blocks?
Creative block is unfortunately inevitable in our field, and sometimes it can be quite tough to move past. How I overcome these blocks changes each time, but I usually try to look for inspiration in new places, or give myself some space to decompress and think.
There’s nothing a quick walk and some fresh air can’t fix!
What web design trends or technologies are you seeing at the moment that will influence your practice?
I think a lot of new websites have taken an intuitive, storytelling approach to their design system. A lot of websites are choosing animations and taking their user on a real journey throughout.
Static websites are definitely becoming a thing of the past, and I love when I get to work on a project that gives me more space and freedom to collaborate with the developers and let my creativity run free.
Another trend I have been loving is big and bold typography! I hope it sticks because it’s great for accessibility too.
How do you keep up to date with all these trends?
I like to follow relevant blogs and accounts on Instagram and LinkedIn for some short form content. I also like to attend in-person events and talks when I can – there’s always some great ones happening in Belfast for design and UX.
You can always find a great book or podcast on just about anything design related too!
As a UX Designer, what does your day to day look like at Rapid?
This differs a lot depending on the project I’m working on. I could be presenting a new design concept or UX research to clients, working on wireframes and prototypes, or running usability tests and accessibility audits.
No two days are the same!
Finally, what’s your office pet peeve?
When someone forgets their Tuesday bake!