FOF Africa Mentorship program: Week 1 review(Beginner Designer)

Hello, My name is Chidinma Cassandra Nzewodo and this is my first article and I owe it to Friends of Figma Africa.

As I sit down to write my very first article, I'm filled with excitement and a sense of purpose. You see, I'm on the cusp of a new career path, one that's a complete departure from my background in chemical engineering. I'm stepping into the world of User Experience (UX) Design, and the journey so far has been nothing short of exhilarating.

UX design is all about creating products and services with the user in mind. It's about ensuring that the end-user has a seamless and enjoyable experience when interacting with a website or application.it is also the process of planning the experience a person has when they interact with a product.

It's essential to understand some fundamental UX design principles, such as usability, accessibility, and user research. Usability refers to how easy it is for users to navigate and interact with a product. Accessibility ensures that your design is inclusive and caters to all users, including those with disabilities. User research involves understanding your target audience's needs and preferences.

The typical UX design process can be divided into four (4) parts, which include User Research, Design, Testing and Implementation.

User Research: User research is the foundation of UX design. By conducting surveys, interviews, and usability testing, you gain valuable insights into user behaviour and expectations. This knowledge informs your design decisions, helping you create products that truly resonate with your audience.

Design: Design is about making sure your user interface (UI) is intuitive and user-friendly. Concepts like affordances (making it clear what actions are possible) and feedback (responding to user actions) are critical in this phase.

Testing: Usability testing, where you gather feedback from real users, is crucial for refining your designs based on actual user experiences.

Final Thoughts and Resources

To wrap it up, remember that UX design is about putting the user first. Always aim to create user-centered products and services. And if you're hungry for more knowledge on this exciting field, the "UX Design for Beginners" tutorial from CareerFoundry is a fantastic resource to explore further. In just a few minutes, you've gained insights into the essential principles of UX design. With this foundation, you're well on your way to embarking on an exciting journey into the world of UX design. So, go ahead, start exploring, and create user experiences that make a difference!

Transitioning from chemical engineering to UX design may appear as a leap, but I see it as an exciting evolution. My previous experiences have equipped me with a unique perspective, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for improving the human experience through technology. As I embark on this journey, I am filled with eagerness and a desire to learn. The world of UX design is a realm where creativity, psychology, and technology converge. It's a space where I can combine my analytical skills with my love for innovation.

So, whether you're an aspiring UX designer or contemplating a career shift like me, remember that your background, no matter how different, can be a valuable asset. Embrace the change, and you might discover that your previous experiences have uniquely prepared you for the exciting path ahead.

Stay tuned for more insights and adventures as I navigate this thrilling transition from chemical engineer to UX designer. The journey has just begun!😎😎✌