There are two types of design that are very often mentioned. Namely, the UX design and the UI design. And you're probably wondering what the difference is between the two? What are their real specificities?
So we hope that at the end of this article it will seem clearer to you.
Here is a definition of webdesign (source: The Internet user): "Webdesign is an English word meaning literally "conceptio web". Web design is therefore a branch of IT dedicated to web interface design that requires various skills, such as ergonomics, graphics, marketing, etc.".
Then, you must keep in mind that UX design is not UI design... However, UI can sometimes be UX since it plays a role in the user experience.
The two are very strongly linked (but to differentiate) even if IU is the most visible part for Internet users. To illustrate this: UX is an iceberg and IU is the visible part of this iceberg....
1. UX : USER EXPERIENCE :
The UX design includes everything that is implemented to create an interface that can fully meet the needs of users. It makes the user's journey as fluid, functional, natural and intuitive as possible. It therefore has a rather "practical" side, which implies to have a certain logic.
Thus, UX design often requires the analysis of Internet users, your target audience:
- How do they interact with the interface?
- What are their needs?
- What are their expectations?
Note that the UI design still has a role in the UX. It enhances the user experience because if it is appropriate it can be spoilt by a visual design that does not match the brand's personality (or what Internet users appreciate).
For information :
UX design is not only about websites and platforms, mobile applications or any other technology, because on a large scale, UX makes it possible to create a product simple and pleasant to use for its users.
2. UI : USER INTERFACE :
The UI design focuses on the visual experience with the objective of making the website nice.
In other words, the UI design corresponds to the entire visual part of the interfaces with which Internet users interact. It therefore has a rather "aesthetic" side thanks to the graphic design.
Indeed, its the visual aspect that will reinforce the image of your brand through the colors, typography, shapes of the buttons on your site, the layout of the contact form, images, the general layout of the screen, (micro) animations, etc....
To conclude, these two web design disciplines are very different but really complementary!
You can also watch this video to understand both concepts:
If you want to know more about web design, we invite you to read our articles on "Responsive Web Design" and the "Top podcasts".