The constantly evolving world of UX/UI design is one of creativity, adaptability, and innovation. As a web designer, developer, and manager, it’s critical to stay on top of the latest trends, techniques, and resources to ensure your work remains both effective and aesthetically pleasing. Let’s explore the current leading sources and services that are indispensable to UX/UI and product designers in 2023.
1. Educational Platforms
Coursera and Udemy
Both Coursera and Udemy offer a wide variety of online courses in UX/UI design. You can find beginner courses, advanced courses, and even specialized courses, such as mobile UX/UI design or UX for AR/VR applications. These platforms provide the flexibility to learn at your own pace and obtain certification upon completion, providing an excellent way to refine your skills and knowledge.
- Coursera: www.coursera.org
- Udemy: www.udemy.com
LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning, formerly known as Lynda, offers a plethora of design-oriented courses and content. They have an array of UX/UI courses, from user research to prototyping and usability testing. This platform’s added benefit is its seamless integration with your LinkedIn profile, which makes showcasing your new skills to potential employers much more straightforward.
LinkedIn Learning: www.linkedin.com/learning/
Designlab
Designlab is a platform specifically geared towards design education. It offers both free and paid courses in UX/UI design and provides an impressive mentorship component that pairs students with seasoned design professionals for one-on-one sessions.
Designlab: www.trydesignlab.com
2. Inspirational and Reference Websites
Behance and Dribbble
Both Behance and Dribbble have become standard go-to platforms for designers seeking inspiration. They showcase top-quality works from designers all around the world. These platforms also serve as excellent networking sites, where designers can connect, collaborate, and share feedback.
- Behance: www.behance.net
- Dribbble: www.dribbble.com
Awwwards
Awwwards is a website that recognises and promotes the talent and effort of the best developers, designers, and web agencies in the world. For designers seeking to stay on top of cutting-edge design trends, this site is a must-visit.
Awwwards: www.awwwards.com
3. Tools and Software
Figma
Figma has emerged as a leading tool in UX/UI and product design. It is a browser-based interface design tool that allows for real-time collaboration, making it especially well-suited for team projects. Its vector-based functionality, coupled with prototyping capabilities and easy-to-use interface, make it a vital tool for modern designers.
Figma: www.figma.com
Adobe XD
Adobe XD is another excellent design and prototyping tool. It’s a part of the Adobe Creative Suite and offers seamless integration with other Adobe applications. Its repeat grid tool, auto-animate feature, and voice prototyping capabilities stand out in the industry.
Adobe XD: www.adobe.com/products/xd.html
Sketch
Sketch has been a beloved tool of many UX/UI designers for years. While it is exclusive to MacOS, its robust features like Symbols and Styles for reusing elements make it a solid choice for UX/UI design. It also boasts a wide range of plugins, which extends its capabilities.
Sketch: www.sketch.com
4. Usability Testing and Feedback Platforms
Usertesting.com
Usertesting.com is a platform that allows designers to get video feedback from users interacting with their designs. This makes usability testing much easier and more efficient, allowing designers to make data-driven decisions.
Usertesting.com: www.usertesting.com
Maze
Maze is a user testing platform that turns your prototype into an actionable, insight-filled user test. It integrates with Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD and InVision, making it versatile and convenient to use.
Maze: www.maze.design
5. UX/UI Design Blogs and Online Magazines
Nielsen Norman Group
The Nielsen Norman Group blog is a treasure trove of UX research and articles. From case studies to best practices, this resource should be in every UX/UI designer’s bookmarks.
Nielsen Norman Group: www.nngroup.com
UX Collective
UX Collective is one of the largest and most active design communities on the internet. They curate a vast selection of articles from designers around the world, offering valuable insights and the latest industry trends.
UX Collective: www.uxdesign.cc
6. Collaboration and Project Management Tools
Slack
Slack is an industry-standard for team communication. It allows for individual and group messaging, file sharing, and integrations with many other design tools.
Slack: www.slack.com
Trello
Trello is a project management tool that helps teams stay organized. Its simple card-based interface is perfect for tracking tasks, due dates, and project stages.
Trello: www.trello.com
Asana
Asana is another project management tool designed for more complex projects. Its features like task dependencies, timelines, and advanced reporting tools are excellent for larger teams and projects.
Asana: www.asana.com
In conclusion, the UX/UI design world is one filled with ever-evolving tools, resources, and services. The above-listed resources have proven to be incredibly valuable for designers, offering comprehensive learning platforms, inspiration hubs, collaborative tools, and usability testing platforms that drive the industry forward. Continually exploring and embracing these resources will undoubtedly empower you to create more effective and innovative designs.
