UX design is a vital component of the websites and apps we use every day. If you’re looking to start a career in design but aren’t sure where to start, UX design can offer a lot of benefits to provide a rewarding career.
What Is UX Design?
First things first, it’s best to know what exactly UX design is. Short for user experience, UX design is all about how people interact with the various apps and websites they use on a daily basis. UX designers ensure these tools are working in a streamlined, user-friendly way. It’s their job to know what the user wants and needs in addition to knowing why it’s important. UX designers do this through layout, imagery, navigation, and content, serving as the bridge between a web developer and the individual user.
Why should I start a career in UX design?
If you’re passionate about design and technology, a career in UX design might be right for you. In addition to the ability to exercise your creativity and help people, UX design offers a lot of employment perks that people are finding more desirable in the modern workforce.
The global pandemic has changed the landscape of employment across the world. The necessity of social distancing has seen many careers transition from traditional offices to work from situations. As we’ve now grown accustomed to this, many people are happy and looking forward to the ability to maintain a home office. Since UX design is all computer-based, you can continue to work from home or transition into working from home if you’re not already doing so. Many people find working from home to be easier, having the benefits of being able to balance kids, household chores, and work. It also cuts costs. Since there’s no commute, there’s no need to worry about gas money, public transportation fees, or wear and tear on your car. Plus you have a kitchen at your disposal so you can not only save money on lunches, but make healthier food choices, too.
Because UX designers often get to work from home, they also get to make their own schedules. While there will always be deadlines and scheduled meetings, you can choose when to work on those projects and coordinate your time around meetings, giving you a little more balance between work and the rest of your life.
Another great perk to a career in UX design is that almost every sector of business has an online presence, so you’re not limited to working only for a design or tech firm. Some businesses hire in-house designers, while others hire freelance designers on a project-by-project basis. If you’re not ready or able to make the commitment to working for one company, contract work is often available, so you can pick when you work and for whom.
Perhaps one of the best reasons to start a career in UX design, though, is the need for them. UX designers are in high demand because design is so integral to the function and marketability of a product. Glassdoor predicts the average salary for a UX designer to be about $85,277, making it a lucrative career prospect.
How do I start a UX design career?
To start a career in UX design, you’ll need the right education. NYIAD’s online UX Design course can help get you on track to learning the skills needed to create and enhance user interfaces as well as the theories and methods behind the development of smart design. You’ll also have the opportunity to build a working portfolio to add to your resume, which can help give you an edge in a competitive job market. Because all classes are self-paced and online, the experience may also help prepare you for what it’s like working from home, studying anytime that fits into your schedule.
If you’re ready to start designing a career that works for you, enroll online today or call 1-800-583-1742 to talk to a student services representative to learn more about UX design.
