UI/UX designer: who is it, what do they do, and how in demand

Modern digital products cannot be imagined without well-thought-out interfaces and convenient user interaction. From mobile applications to websites, everything requires a visual structure and logic that is understandable to the end user. This is where a figure that is increasingly talked about in the industry comes into play — the UI/UX designer.

For many aspiring professionals or business owners, it is not entirely clear what a professional in this field does. To understand why UI/UX design is one of the most sought-after professions in the digital economy, it is worth delving deeper: from basic terminology to the real contribution to the success of a digital product.

Who is a UX/UI designer?

Let’s start with the basics: what is UX and UI design in simple terms. UX (User Experience) is the user’s behavior logic in a digital environment.

A UX designer designs the user’s path: where they will click, what they expect to see, where they might get stuck. The goal is to make the path from entry point to desired action as logical and pleasant as possible.

UI (User Interface) is the visual design of the product: buttons, fonts, colors, animations. A UI designer is responsible for how everything looks and how the elements visually interact with each other.

When we say that a UI/UX designer is a sought-after professional, we mean someone who can manage perception, improve user experience, and consequently, impact business metrics.

What does a UX/UI designer do in real projects?

The scope of responsibilities can vary significantly depending on the team structure and product specifics, but there are key areas in which a specialist is almost always involved.

One of the primary tasks is interacting with analysts and product managers. This contact allows for a deeper understanding of the project’s goals, requirements, and priorities, as well as forming a clear vision of the end result and business objectives.

The next step is creating interaction scenarios and maps that visualize the user’s navigation logic through the interface. They help identify potential pain points, optimize the path, and enhance the overall usability of the product.

An integral part of the work is designing the visual part of the interface. It is important to consider the company’s brand guidelines, use UI kit elements, and maintain the visual integrity of the product — this is what the professional does, as a UI/UX designer is responsible for the harmony of the visual appearance and usability.

What skills does a UX/UI designer need to develop?

To be competitive in the profession, it is important not only to understand the basics of interface development but also to be able to apply a flexible set of tools. Here are some key points to focus on:

• knowledge of usability principles and guidelines for mobile/web platforms;
• proficiency in Figma, Adobe XD, Sketch, as well as prototyping;
• experience in testing scenarios;
• ability to analyze research results and make adjustments;
• basic understanding of front-end — at least knowledge of layout constraints.

By developing these competencies, a designer becomes a versatile link between development, business, and end users, making them a key participant in digital transformation.

How to become a UX/UI designer: steps into the profession

The path to the profession can start with self-learning or structured courses. The key is not just to learn the tools but to learn to see solutions from the user’s and business’ perspectives, as a UI/UX designer is a specialist who combines the interests of both sides in one digital product. For those planning to start, it is useful to follow a proven approach:

• learn the basic terminology — user interface, UX research, prototyping;
• master the tools — start with Figma or Adobe XD;
• understand how to become a UX/UI designer through real cases — participate in hackathons and test assignments;
• build a portfolio based on educational or personal projects;
• enhance analysis and critical thinking skills.

The earlier you start practicing, the faster you will see growth. And the demand for UX/UI professionals has long exceeded the boundaries of the IT industry.

A UI/UX designer is not just an artist but a strategist of interaction

A strong expert in the field is not just someone with a good sense of color and composition but an analyst, communicator, and designer all in one. They influence how the product is perceived, how people use it, and how likely it is that the user will return.

The demand for such specialists is growing. Companies increasingly realize the importance of UX/UI design because a poor interface means customer churn and decreased conversions. Today, an interface developer is not the final link but the starting point of any modern development.

What to consider when choosing a career path in UX/UI?

Regardless of whether you are heading to an agency, freelancing, or a product company, it is important to soberly assess the requirements and opportunities. The work can be highly paid but also demanding in terms of thinking, creativity, and attention to detail.

Competition among beginners is high, but with a portfolio, understanding of trends, and the ability to present oneself, the profession becomes accessible to almost anyone. Especially considering that entry is possible without a technical education — a strong visual taste and the ability to see user behavior logic are sufficient.

Additional advantages of the UX/UI specialist profession

Many choose this field not only for the earnings but also for the flexibility and versatility it offers. A UI/UX designer is an employee who can work remotely, participate in international projects, develop in a product or consulting environment, making the profession particularly attractive in modern realities. Let’s look at the main advantages of the job:

• opportunity to work on real websites, applications, and digital services;
• growth prospects in product design, art direction, or project management;
• availability of freelance orders and flexible schedules;
• competitive salary and rapid income growth with experience;
• continuous development — the profession requires staying up to date with new tools and trends.

These benefits make the field attractive not only for young professionals but also for those looking to change careers.

UI/UX designer — a promising direction

If you are looking for a field at the intersection of logic, design, and psychology, then a UI/UX designer is one of the best options. The profession combines analysis, visuals, interaction with people, and working towards results.

The demand for such experts is only growing. In an era where every service competes for user attention, the ability to make interaction comfortable becomes a key competitive advantage. This is what makes a UX/UI specialist an indispensable player in any digital team.