UI vs. UX: What’s the Difference?

If you’re still unsure of the exact differences between UI and UX, don’t be ashamed; many people in the tech industry don’t fully understand the difference between UI and UX, either. That second letter makes a big difference though — read on to learn all about UI vs. UX.
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UI vs. UX: What Do They Stand For?

UI stands for user interface, and UX stands for user experience. While both fields are focused on providing a seamless experience for the end user, they focus on different aspects of that experience. UX focuses primarily on the process of experience, while UI focuses primarily on the design elements and programming required to make the process of experience work. UX is the concept; UI is the implementation of the concept.

UI vs. UX: How Do They Work Together?

It all begins with UX. A UX designer will think through every possible step or scenario a user may encounter on a website. He or she will map out these processes, using psychology, data, and best practices to align these scenarios with their best possible outcome. They anticipate pain points, frustrations, and friction that decrease conversions, and build a plan for UI to implement. Once the UI designer takes over, he or she will start building the actual website, programming the process in accordance with the plan the UX designer has created. UI designers are particularly knowledgeable of best design practices and technological incompatibilities.

UI vs. UX: What Happens When Design Is Over?

UI and UX are both dynamic fields. As technology and user behavior changes, the fields adapt to keep up, creating excellent UI and UX designs in the process. Both UI and UX designers are constantly testing new things and tracking user satisfaction, conversions, time on a webpage, and other specific data to optimize the impact of their work. Their work is never truly finished, as there is always room for improvement, and changing trends make stagnation the biggest threat to online user satisfaction and conversion rates.

UI vs. UX: Why You Need Them

You’d be surprised how many websites are not optimized for user experience. Working with a UI and/or UX designer will help you identify ways to increase user satisfaction and conversions. If you’re seeing website traffic yet not seeing results, a good UI or UX designer should be the first person you consult. Need help finding the right UI or UX designer to help with your project? Check out our directory of design firms to find a local or remote designer or agency to help with your needs. Think your agency should be listed here? Learn all about us and get ranked today.

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