To anyone unfamiliar with user experience design, the world of wireframes and user-testing can sound more than a little intimidating. Our recent event “How to Put the ‘YOU’ in UX Design,” aimed to dispel this notion and combat the myth that you need to be tech-savvy to create memorable experiences. In front of a packed audience, panelists Karen Hawkins, Mike Costanzo, and Scott MacGregor discussed how they got into UX, what they love about their profession, and their thoughts on the future of design thinking. With attendees ranging from young creatives interested in upping their digital skills, to experienced designers, the panel served as a perfect introduction to the world of UX design.

However, Karen’s story is hardly the exception. Both Mike and Scott described a winding path to UX — including more than one career change along the way. For Mike, it was ultimately designing MySpace pages that showed him there was a way to combine his love of art and science. Similarly, Scott spent several years as a successful copywriter before realizing there was another way to bring his stories to life. In the end, all panelists agreed that designing experiences for the needs of real users is what drew them to the world of UX.

Mike echoed this sentiment by adding that inclusivity must go beyond interfaces with the hiring of more diverse design teams. He noted that despite the vocal fight for equality, “accessibility has largely been left behind.” As a result, there has never been a greater demand for designers with the skills to create more accessible experiences.

“Start with the story. Get it all out on the page.”
– Scott MacGregor

Despite their different perspectives, each panelist agreed that the key to success in UX lies in learning as much as you can, from as many people as you can, in as many disciplines as possible. Assuaging the fears of those without a design background, Vass reassured the audience that you don’t need a tech background to get started, “you just need to be passionate about the user experience.”

For those inspired to put the ‘you’ in UX design, Miami Ad School Toronto’s new UX Bootcamp is the perfect opportunity. Applications are due March 15th, 2019 and classes begin April 2nd, 2019.