‘User Experience’ Articles at Brandeis GPS Blog

Tag: user experience

Understanding User-Centered Design

People collaborating on a design using markers, paper, and sticky notes.

User-Centered Design — or, as it is more commonly known, User Experience Design (UX) — has risen into prominence within the past decade, becoming one of Brandeis GPS’s most popular graduate degrees.

While one can intuit the focus of user-centered design or UX design from its name, few people know what actually goes into UX design, what educational or professional background is needed to succeed in the field, or what career opportunities are available. This article will unveil these details and more, delving into the ins-and-outs of User-Centered Design.

What is User-Centered Design?

In simple terms, User-Centered Design is the process of creating products that are easy, engaging, and enjoyable to use. Whether the product is an app, website, or physical device, design is crucial to the user’s experience. A product’s concept may be revolutionary, but all potential benefit is lost if the audience cannot easily navigate, interact with, or understand it.

While aesthetics certainly play a role, the real focus of User-Centered Design is the user experience, which is impacted by the product’s function, usability, and value to the user. UX practitioners combine insights from psychology and UX research with creativity and technical skills to improve the efficiency, accessibility, and appeal of products so that they can be fully utilized and enjoyed by the audience.

What kind of background is needed to study User-Centered Design?

There are no specific background requirements for individuals who wish to study User-Centered Design. Although previous knowledge of psychology, design, coding, and programming may be useful, most User-Centered Design programs do not have prerequisites. This, along with the high demand for UX experts, makes User-Centered Design one of the most appealing fields for individuals who are looking to make a career change.

What skills are needed to succeed in User-Centered Design?

In addition to perfecting their knowledge of basic UX design principles, UX practitioners must master a variety of hard skills in order to succeed in the field. These skills include UX research, prototyping, design thinking, information architecture, visual design, and more. Experience with coding can also be useful — both for designing and for collaborating with the software developers on your team. However, new tools have made it possible for UX practitioners to succeed without knowing how to code.

Soft skills are also crucial for success in the UX field. UX design requires a deep understanding of others’ needs, individuals pursuing a career in the field must be empathetic. They must also be highly inquisitive, as UX design requires a constant search for new and better solutions. Lastly, organizational skills are crucial — UX practitioners must compile large amounts of research, feedback, and ideas into one design, and close attention to detail is needed to ensure that all elements are properly incorporated.

What career opportunities are available in User-Centered Design?

As competition in the markets for apps, websites, and devices intensifies, companies in all industries are looking for specialists who can help to differentiate and improve the usability of their products. According to a study on LinkedIn, UX design was the fifth most-needed skill in 2020. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for Web Developers and Digital Designers — a field that may include UX designers — is expected to increase by 23 percent from 2021 to 2031. With our increased use of technology following the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, accessibility and usability are becoming priorities of society — and UX experts are the ones with the skills and tools to meet these needs.

In addition to conducting research and designing products within teams of software engineers and other designers, UX specialists often work on projects related to obtaining and retaining customers, and may even provide insight on how to improve employee satisfaction within their own company. This versatility means that a degree in User-Centered design can open the door to a wide variety of job titles and career opportunities.

Why study User-Centered Design at GPS?

With both part-time and full-time online options, the MS in User-Centered Design at Brandeis GPS offers you the flexibility to learn at your own pace from UX professionals at the top of their field. Rather than focusing solely on design aesthetics, our User-Centered Design program explores the science of human behavior to gain a deeper understanding of user experience (UX) and engagement principles. With areas of focus such as Design, Strategy, or Research and Analytics, you can select an elective path based on your personal interests and career goals. Not only this, but our capstone course and internship options will provide you with the opportunity to put your new knowledge and skills into practice, thus providing you with real experience to support your transition into a UX career. You’ll graduate with a portfolio showcasing your skills, empowering you to advance in your organization or launch a new career improving digital products, websites, and software applications.

For more information about the Brandeis GPS master’s in User-Centered Design, visit the program webpage.

UX is my superpower

May 6, 2022 / angelaself / 1 Comment

Photo of David Lumerman. User experience is all about solving problems, and having a deep understanding of mechanics behind the actions people take gives a UX practitioner more tools to solve these problems.

Like Batman, the world’s greatest detective, you use a combination of the clues found in our surroundings, in user norms like heuristics, and active listening to users, and even the needs and goals of stakeholders to solve the problems, combat evil (or at least bad UX) ands save Gotham City.

This all begins with asking the right question.

As an adjunct professor at Brandeis the “Why” is something I explore with all the students in the program. The “Why” becomes the caped crusader’s utility belt, and all the tools fit into the various compartments. Understanding the “Why” is key to being able to deliver good UX and improvement for the people we are trying to help. Making things better, more efficient and easier to use is the key.

The most successful students in the program can not only relay the information but use this utility belt to extrapolate and apply the lessons to the work they produce.

By building a foundation of heuristics, applying critical thinking and good observation you can successfully tackle any UX task. The tools may evolve, the user’s gulf of understanding may be increased, but the fundamentals of what makes for good UX and good design form the bedrock of the user experience discipline

A good superhero is empathetic.

If you have ever observed participants in a one-on-one usability test you immediately begin to empathize with the people performing the actions. It’s actually one of the hardest things to do when running sessions, to not interject and alleviate the discomfort you are observing. When counseling students it is something I emphasize that you need to be comfortable with their discomfort for the greater good. The greater good of the project, the design and the user experience.

I see this struggle as a good thing. If UX folks are not bothered by the discomfort they are inflicting, maybe they are not empathizing enough.

UX is hard. It’s a relatively new field that fights to gain a seat at the table. I equate it sometimes as running head long into a brick wall, checking the wall for cracks, and shaking it off and doing it again.

The best of us have a passion for running into that wall. If given a choice, be Batman. Always be Batman.

Bio

David Lumerman, M.S., has been an Adjunct Professor at Brandeis University since 2017 conducting courses in including User Interface design, User Experience Design, Cognitive and Social Psychology of User-Centered Design, Design Operation and Leadership, and the Capstone in User-Centered Design. During this time he has redeveloped both the User Interface Design and Design Operation and Leadership courses.

Mr. Lumerman is the Corporate Vice President of User Experience at New York Life Insurance, where he develops engaging interaction for New York Life websites, applications and interactive experiences, and has done so for over 20 years. Previously, David developed online games and game shows with Pearson Television and Uproar! Games, most notably the interactive versions of “Family Feud” and “To Tell the Truth.” He earned his Masters degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and undergraduate degree from the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

An avid outdoorsman, David is proficient in Dutch Oven Cooking and is actively involved in running outdoor programs through the Boy Scouts of America. He has been married for over 30 years to his wife Dvorah, and has two sons, Sam and Henry, who are both Eagle Scouts.

Dave is the recipient of the 2022 “Rabb School Outstanding Teacher Award”.

For more information on the User-Centered Design MS or other online master’s degrees available at GPS, please visit brandeis.edu/gps.

GPS at UXPA Boston 2019

May 10, 2019 / kaplane / 0 Comments

The Boston Chapter of the User Experience Professionals Association will be holding their 18th Annual User Experience Conference on Friday, May 10, at the Sheraton Boston Hotel.

Eva Kaniasty, chair of the User-Centered Design program at Graduate Professional Studies, will participate in the Innovation Fishbowl (9:15 a.m.), a debate-style panel session that will cover several controversial topics around UX and innovation:

What’s the state of UX design for emerging technologies (voice, IoT, etc)?
Are we inventing new processes and methodologies, or just re-branding the old?
When we creatively adapt a method or process to fit project realities, are we losing its core benefits/value?
Are standards and design systems good for UX, or are they forcing us to design to the least common denominator?
Can design collaboration and reliance on user feedback devolve into groupthink and rejection of new ideas?
Does UX foster or kill innovation?
Have we finally found a way to make Agile and UX play well together?

The Fishbowl format is designed to facilitate discussion in large groups, making it ideal for an advanced conference session. First the panelists will discuss a topic while the audience listens. Next, the audience is invited to join the discussion with questions and comments. The fishbowl round continues for 10-15 minutes, at which point a new topic is introduced and the process repeats.

Eva will also be facilitating a lunchtime discussion at the conference. If you’d like to learn more about the event and programs offered, check out the website and follow along with the hashtag: #UXPABOS19.

Marketing skills for journalism and communications

April 24, 2019 / kaplane / 0 Comments

According to a 2018 study conducted by Emsi and the Strada Institute for the Future of Work, 85 percent of the jobs that will exist in 2030 haven’t been invented yet. While technological advancements will continue to lead to the creation of brand new sectors and jobs, existing fields are also becoming increasingly reliant on technology.

Journalism and communications careers in particular are becoming more focused on IT, with job postings requiring more tech-focused skills such as SEO, social and web analytics, and web design. As these fields are evolving, it is important for job candidates to set themselves apart.

Brandeis GPS offers a part-time, fully online MS in Digital Marketing and Design to help journalism and communications professionals stay on top of the digital skills required by an increasing number of jobs. With a curriculum that explores SEO, analytics, web design/user experience, and multichannel marketing, students learn how digital content is consumed, shared and evaluated.

GPS courses include Digital Marketing Strategy, Marketing and Customer Analytics, Writing for Digital Environments, and Multichannel Marketing Campaigns.

Brandeis GPS offers rolling admission to our 12 fully-online master’s degree programs, so you can apply and be accepted at any time. However, we do have recommended deadlines if you are seeking admission for a specific term. The deadline to apply to our Fall 1 session with courses beginning in July is Wednesday, June 19. You can apply here. Those interested in taking a course who do not yet wish to pursue a full master’s degree can still take up to two online courses without officially enrolling.

To learn more about our MS in Digital Marketing and Design, contact the GPS office: 781-736-8787, gps@brandeis.edu, or submit your information.

Upcoming UX webinar: a story-first approach to human-centered design

October 17, 2016 / memiller / 0 Comments

Thursday, Oct. 27, 2016
2-3 p.m. EDT
Hosted by Lou Susi, Program Chair of the MS in User-Centered Design

louis-susi - Brandeis GPS Online Education - Brandeis GPS Blog When we design for experience, subtle and peculiar shifts come into play that demand a uniquely compassionate way of thinking about and guiding our practice. This webinar will explore:

The benefits of putting story concepts at the center of a human-centered design approach to improve the design process
The quality of a total human experience we’re ultimately all creating through our work.
High-level perspectives, philosophies and mindsets pertaining to both design thinking and decision-making

Learn more and register!

Brandeis University to add two online master’s degrees this fall

July 7, 2015 / cchatell / 0 Comments

Programs to address critical need for skilled professionals in expanding digital marketing and design industries

WALTHAM, MA – Brandeis University’s Graduate Professional Studies division (GPS) announced today the launch of two new fully online, part-time master’s degrees: a Master of Science in Digital Marketing and Design and a Master of Science in User-Centered Design.

The programs’ curricula incorporate the rigorous standards of excellence that make Brandeis one of the country’s top universities while capturing the latest applied technologies and industry best practices. Both 30-credit programs are designed so students can complete them in 1.6 to 3 years.

The M.S. in Digital Marketing and Design distinguishes itself from other degrees — particularly traditional marketing degrees — in how it blends together principles of digital marketing design, tactics and analysis. The program concentrates on the technical application of marketing theory in digital environments, equipping students with a rich toolkit for delivering sound, tailored digital marketing campaigns.

“Today’s businesses rely heavily on websites, blogs, social media and other digital content that are created and controlled by the organization,” said Steven Dupree, VP of Marketing at SoFi and the program’s chair. “Students will learn to leverage these assets, implement a sound media strategy, and analyze digital marketing data to make smart decisions that grow companies.”

The M.S. in User-Centered Design is geared toward professionals with backgrounds in human computer interaction, information technology, computer science, digital marketing, or interaction design. The program focuses on the psychological and other human factors that affect the usability of systems and should influence interface design strategies. Students learn processes for extracting user needs and requirements; developing concepts with wireframes/prototypes; and learning methods to refine and validate their designs through an iterative process. Upon program completion, students will have developed a portfolio of artifacts that apply innovative thinking and a human-centered approach to web, applications or software enterprise system design.

“Design-thinking coupled with leadership skills are the magic bullet that technology companies need to successfully innovate and produce world-class products and services,” said Blade Kotelly, VP of Design at Jibo and a member of the degree program’s professional advisory board. “This program strikes the ideal balance between theory and practice.”

In addition to the new programs, Brandeis GPS offers a post-master’s graduate certificate in Learning Analytics and eight fully online part-time master’s degrees applicable to an array of industries. All Brandeis GPS programs are asynchronous, providing students with a flexible and convenient approach to completing their degrees.

Students interested in applying for either program should complete their applications by Aug. 11, 2015. Students also have the opportunity to take courses prior to applying for admission. Registration for the fall 2015 term opens on August 25, with courses beginning Sept. 16. For more information, please visit www.brandeis.edu/gps.

About Brandeis GPS
Brandeis University’s Graduate Professional Studies division is dedicated to developing innovative programs for motivated professionals. GPS offers 10 fully online, part-time master’s degrees and one online graduate certificate program. With three 10-week terms each year, Brandeis GPS provides exceptional programs with a convenient and flexible online approach. Courses are led by industry experts who deliver individualized support and professional insights.

About Brandeis University

Brandeis University combines the breadth and scope of a world-class research university with the intimacy and accessibility of a small liberal arts college. Consistently ranked among the nation’s best universities, Brandeis is widely recognized for the excellence of its teaching, the quality and diversity of its student body and the outstanding research of its faculty. As a leading research university and member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, Brandeis fosters self-motivated, curious students ready to engage new experiences and equipped for global endeavors.

Adapting Design to the User

June 25, 2015 / cchatell / 0 Comments

Written by: Kelsey Whitaker, A Senior at Brandeis University

The way in which people experience design is a vital factor in the success of any creation. There is currently a growing movement of designers who search to implement technologies that adapt to the user. This is where the newest Master of Science program at Brandeis GPS in User-Centered design comes in. User-centered design covers fields including Human Factors, Human Computer Interaction, and User Experience. Human factors deal with the physical factors of interaction as well as the psychological and social factors of design. Human computer interaction is concerned with the interfaces between humans and computers and how these factors influence user experience. User experience deals with the usability issues of design. In addition to providing students with an advanced understanding of these areas, the program at Brandeis GPS will provide students with the leadership skills necessary to implement and advocate for design thinking.

Currently, the field of User-centered design is in high demand and expected to grow significantly over the next ten years. CNN Money recently voted the profession as the #14 best job in America. It was also featured in Glassdoor’s list of “25 Highest Paying Jobs with the Most Openings Right Now.” “User experience has caught on so much, both as something that people enjoy doing and something that is more and more widely recognized as being valuable to a growing number of companies,” says user experience designer Louisa Armbrust. The applications of user-centered design are broad and specialization can be found in fields such as information architecture, web designing, engineering, interactive media, and technology. Leading organizations that are currently hiring user-centered designers include Amazon, IBM, Disney, Apple, and several more.

The Brandeis GPS user-centered design degree program is geared towards individuals who are currently working in fields such as information technology, computer science, information architecture, web design, and other related areas, who are looking to extend their expertise in human factors of design. The Brandeis GPS program is unique because there are few online master’s degree programs in this field, none of which are geared towards developing leadership. In addition to a focus on leadership development, the available electives will create possibilities for students to graduate with skills in user interface design. This is an altogether different field than user-centered design, however, employers generally search for individuals with skills in both. The 30 credit program consists of 7 required courses and 3 electives.

Interested in the User-centered design program at Brandeis GPS? Apply now! To learn more about the program, contact 781-736-8787 or gps@brandeis.edu.

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