A Digital Strategy Podcast

Web Design vs UX Design: What is the difference, and why UX wins long term

Episode Summary

In this conversation, Symon Oliver and Marcello Gortana explore the distinctions and overlaps between UX design and web design. They discuss the evolution of these fields, the importance of treating websites as products, and the role of user experience in achieving business goals. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and the challenges of defining roles within the design industry.

Episode Notes

Takeaways

• User experience (UX) design is often misunderstood and conflated with web design.
• Web design focuses on aesthetics and marketing, while UX design emphasizes functionality and user engagement.
• The evolution of design roles has led to a complex landscape where UX, UI, and web design intersect.
• Websites should be treated as products to ensure long-term engagement and optimization.
• Continuous improvement is essential for maintaining effective websites.
• Aesthetic design alone does not solve business problems; UX-driven design is necessary.
• The ideal designer possesses skills in UX, UI, and web aesthetics, often referred to as a 'unicorn.'
• Organizations need to understand the value of UX to avoid poor design decisions.
• The conversation highlights the importance of bridging marketing, business, and technology in design.
• Defining clear roles and expectations in design teams can lead to better outcomes.

Chapters

• 00:00 Understanding UX and Web Design
• 12:47 Defining User Experience and Web Design
• 23:52 The Role of UX Designers in Web Development
• 29:34 Wrapping Up: UX vs Web Design