Designers invest significant time and thought into their work, striving to balance user needs with business objectives. Despite being in 2021, many clients and even colleagues still misunderstand the role of UX Designers.

This article is a follow-up to my earlier piece titled "19 Things You Shouldn't Say to a UX Researcher (explained with GIFs)."

“I’m not sure if this design is good for our users”

Only users can truly determine if a design meets their needs.

“Let’s keep it minimal; we prefer simplicity”

While minimalism works in home decor, it doesn't always translate to digital products. Minimalism and simplicity are not synonymous.

> “Minimalism is a style, a reaction to complexity, whereas simplicity relies on an understanding of the complex.” — Tim Brown, CEO of IDEO, Source: UXMyth

“As an experienced UX Designer, you don’t need to test your design”

Human behavior is unpredictable. Usability testing and expert reviews are crucial for validating an interface’s usability.

> “Real users often surprise us. They encounter issues we don't foresee and navigate easily where we expect complications.” — Source: UXMyth: Stephanie Rosenbaum

“Our UX Design is complete; now we just need to develop…”

UX Design is an ongoing process that begins with business strategy and continues even after launch.

> “User experience design isn’t a one-time task; it must be integrated into every aspect of your project.” — Source: UXMyth: Liz Danzico

“UX Designers only create wireframes.”

Wireframes are just one aspect of UX design, which encompasses much more than merely sketching layouts.

> The UX design process includes brainstorming, developing user personas, and setting goals. Wireframing is one of many essential components.

A UX/UI Designer considers the complete user journey. Creating a visually appealing product requires thoughtful questioning and reasoning.

“Can you make it look unique?”

Providing detailed feedback with examples will help ensure the designer's interpretation aligns with your vision.

“Our users are everyone; we don’t have a specific target audience.”

Your target audience is never everyone. Even major brands have specific demographics they cater to.

“Your job is all about usability.”

> According to UXMyth and The Battle Between Usability and User Experience: > “User experience transcends usability; it’s about evoking emotions. The goal is to create joy, considering factors like emotional impact, environment, and feedback.”

“This will only take a day to design…”

Designing—whether it’s UX, graphic, or otherwise—requires adequate time. Rushing indicates a lack of understanding of the design process.

“Usability is more important than aesthetics.”

Usability and aesthetics are equally crucial. Research shows that good design enhances functionality.

> “Poor visual design can deter users before they realize the thoughtful navigation choices you've made.” — Jesse James Garrett.

“This is my favorite design; can you create something similar?”

This request often comes from a lack of understanding of UX Design, particularly when clients see a design they like but are aware that it might exceed their budget.

“Include some Lorem Ipsum; our content isn’t ready yet.”

> “Using placeholder text can lead to unrealistic assumptions and significant design flaws.” — Source: UXMyth: Death to Lorem Ipsum

“But that looks fine to me; why iterate?”

It’s important to recognize that what looks good to one person may not work for all users. Designers base their decisions on user feedback.

“Can you design it in a format we can edit later?”

Designers utilize specialized tools for their work; they don’t write personal notes or to-do lists in design software.

“We found some issues with your design, but we fixed them.”

Designers own their creations and support their choices with rationale. Any changes, even minor ones, should be discussed with them beforehand.

“I understand the users; let’s design it this way…”

Clients must remember that designs are for users, not themselves. UX Designers rely on research to inform their design decisions.

“You’re a designer; you should know what to do… I trust you, just proceed.”

While trust is appreciated, sharing your challenges and expectations is essential for effective collaboration.

“This is a simple project; it shouldn’t take long.”

Such statements often imply a reluctance to invest the necessary time or resources for quality work.

“I feel like the CTA button would look better if…”

> While feelings are valuable, UX design is grounded in research and evidence.

“This wasn’t a good design decision.”

To ensure your input is valued, communicate your ideas prior to final decisions.

“I showed it to a representative user, and she didn’t like it; let’s change it.”

UX Designers base their work on user research, not gut feelings.

“Can you make one last change?”

It’s best to consolidate all feedback into a single communication to streamline the revision process.

“I’m not a UX Designer, but here’s how I would do it.”

If you’re not an expert, consider why you hired a designer in the first place.

At the end of the project: “Can you add these additional items to the design?”

While it’s acceptable to make changes, requesting them at the end of the project may be impractical.

As a client, researcher, or stakeholder, it's vital to express concerns throughout the project to facilitate smooth collaboration.

“There’s too much space; let’s fill it in.”

Maintaining a clean design is crucial for professionalism and visitor conversion. Trust the designer's expertise.

> “Empty space is just as significant as filled space; it supports the visual integrity of a layout.” — Source: UXMyth, Jason Santa Maria

“Can you finish this by tomorrow afternoon?”

If time constraints exist, communicate them early so designers can assess feasibility.

“I think I prefer the previous version.”

Designers iterate based on research and experience. Trust their judgment.

“I don’t like it.”

Designers can’t read minds. Be specific about what you dislike and why. Remember, their designs are based on valid reasoning and research.

UX and Humor

> 19 Things You Shouldn't Say to a UX Researcher (explained with GIFs)

> 13 Signs You Are Dating a UX Researcher

UX and Science

> The Scientific Principles Every UXer Needs to Know

UX Knowledge

> 41 Design Terms You Need to Know as a UX Researcher/Writer