User-Centric Focus: Understanding UXD Design

Since 2013, buzzwords like UI (User Interface) have been trending, with UX (User Experience) joining the conversation in 2015.

UI refers to interface design and all related aspects, while UX encompasses analytics, user experience, and usability within those interfaces. However, there remains confusion about these terms. Many web designers now label themselves as UI or UX designers, blurring the lines. Consequently, HR departments are left trying to define the functions of each role.

To clarify: a UI designer focuses on visual elements and aesthetics, while a UX designer is involved in prototyping and creating flowcharts that describe functionality and user interactions.

Broader Context of UI and UX

UI, in a global sense, relates to design and aesthetics. It encompasses everything we encounter visually, from the look of an object or packaging to the design of everyday items. This perspective is important because interfaces are increasingly present in our daily lives, even in non-digital objects. Thus, it is inaccurate to restrict the term UI solely to digital interfaces. It truly represents all aspects of design that people interact with.

UX, similarly, relates to the usability of everything around us. For instance, thoughtful urban planning involves creating pathways that guide foot traffic efficiently. Planners may design ideal routes, but often, people create shortcuts based on convenience, highlighting the importance of user experience in real-world applications.

Introducing UXD

We have coined a new term—UXD—to represent our design studio's approach. This integrates both UI and UX into a cohesive process. In our work, User Experience Design emphasizes that the user is at the center of everything, guiding the design and prototyping process. We prioritize understanding user needs and preferences, conducting analytics and prototyping before finalizing the design.

The Ideal of UXZ

A perfect example of UXD systems is the new concept of UXZ, where "Z" stands for "zero." This represents interfaces in VR and AR, where traditional inputs like mouse and keyboard are absent. In these environments, effective UI, UX, and well-executed UXD must be intuitive and accessible to all users. The interface should be minimalistic, featuring only essential buttons and tools, embodying a design ethos that aims for simplicity.

Ultimately, the pursuit of this ideal is becoming a goal for all interfaces and products around us, consciously or unconsciously driving them toward greater user-centricity and minimalism in design and prototyping.