What is your role at Rapid and how long have you been on the team?
I am a UX Designer at Rapid and I’ve been with the team for three weeks now.
What does your day-to-day look like as a Web Designer at Rapid?
My day-to-day as a Web Designer involves a mix of creative and technical tasks which constantly vary. So far I have been designing user interfaces, creating wireframes, and sitemaps. Collaboration is key, so I have been able to meet with clients to discuss design requirements for their projects. I also spend my time testing and refining designs to make sure they are both visually appealing and functional.
How do you balance creativity and innovation with usability and accessibility?
Being able to balance these is a crucial part of web design. I make sure to focus on user-centered design principles, so that every creative decision enhances the user experience. I stay updated on accessibility guidelines and incorporate them into my designs from the beginning so that not only is the design good but the websites are also inclusive for all users.
Are there any trends in the industry that you’re noticing and think will impact UX/UI in the coming months?
One trend I’m noticing is the increasing use of micro-interactions to enhance user engagement. These subtle animations instantly make a website feel more interactive. There are also a lot of dark mode designs being created lately, which not only look very sleek but also are also great for improving readability of a site. I think these trends will continue to shape UX/UI in the coming months.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering a career in Web Design?
For anyone considering a career in web design my advice would be to continually learn and adapt. The field is constantly evolving so make sure to stay updated on the latest design trends, tools, and technologies. Build a really strong foundation in design principles and don’t be afraid to experiment and take creative risks.
How do you handle creative blocks?
When I have a creative block I find it helpful to step away from the project for a short time and do some activities that inspire me, such as reading, getting outside, or even just a quick doodle on my notepad. Sometimes discussing the challenge with someone else can also help give a fresh perspective.
What’s your go-to office playlist?
I listen to anything and everything! Monday is for chilled tunes and then they gradually pick up towards the end of the week to get ready for the weekend.
What initially sparked your interest in pursuing a career in Web Design?
My interest in web design was sparked by a fascination with both art and technology. I’ve always loved creating visual art so the idea of combining that creativity with the functionality of technology drew me to web design. Being able to create interactive experiences that people can engage with daily was what really motivated me to pursue this career.
Can you share some insight into your creative process when starting a new project?
When I start a new project my creative process begins with research and understanding the client’s goals and target audience. I then brainstorm and sketch out some initial ideas, focusing on the overall layout and user flow. Creating wireframes helps me plan the structure and navigation of the site. I then move on to the visual design and experimenting with different elements of the brand to bring the concept to life. Once this is complete I then hand over to the developers to start building out the designs.
What are you watching on Netflix at the minute?
I am about to start watching the new season of Cobra Kai.