If you would like to work in the field of user experience (UI) or user interface design (UI), in this article we explore what skills you need.
User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design are fundamental to achieving a quality digital product or website. They are not only about making the product aesthetically appealing, but also about creating a connection with the user.
Although they are terms that have always gone hand in hand, each separate concept is quite different and encompasses different aspects of the process of creating and developing a service or product. The fundamentals of both UX and UI are based on usability, accessibility, and user interaction.
Most demanded profiles in the UX/UI area
Currently, these types of profiles are in high demand as they provide solutions to possible problems encountered by users in applications, web pages, etc. But what kind of digital skills are necessary to be able to work in this area?
According to Fundación Telefónica’s employment map, the skills most in demand for these profiles are:
UX Specialist
Profile dedicated to understanding the needs and expectations of users. They must create efficient workflows and experiences.
Some of the most commonly used tools and programmes are Sketch, Adobe XD and Figma. This is one of the most in-demand positions on job portals such as tecnoempleo.com.
UI Specialist
Focuses on the visual and aesthetic side of digital design. He or she must ensure that the interface is user-friendly, attractive and reflects the brand’s identity.
People working in this area usually have advanced knowledge of programs such as Photoshop or Illustrator.
Front-end developer
Once the UX specialist has identified the needs of the users, and the UI specialist has defined the best visual way to solve those needs, the front-end developer programmes those designs.
The key skills in this professional profile are programming languages such as HTML, CSS and Javascript.
Salary range in UX/UI
Salaries in this professional area vary considerably depending on the experience required and, above all, the geographical location. Salaries in these profiles tend to increase significantly depending on the degree of experience required. In addition, the accreditation of official certifications and continuing education can contribute to the salary increase.
According to tecnoempleo.com, high-level leadership or specialist profiles can reach salaries of up to €80,000 in Spain. While in the design area the salary range is between €30,000 and €45,000.
Artificial Intelligence in UX/UI
Lately, the increasingly close relationship between UX/UI and Artificial Intelligence has resulted in more personalised and intuitive user experiences. AI analyses behavioral patterns, anticipating user needs, resulting in tailored experiences in real time. The integration of voice or image recognition technologies allows users to interact with the product in a more natural way.
Generative design using AI can help generate multiple design solutions for a given product or website. With these tools, designers can optimise and refine their creations more efficiently. Adobe XD, Blender and Figma are some tools that, when integrated with AI extensions, incorporate generative functionalities that allow multiple designs to be explored automatically.
If you are thinking of orienting your professional profile towards this field, Fundación Telefónica’s Virtual Career Advisor, free of charge, can recommend which training is the most appropriate for you to direct your steps towards the world of experience or user interface.
