‘UX Design’ Articles at Brandeis GPS Blog

Tag: UX design

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.

Brandeis GPS Sponsors UXPA Boston Annual Conference

October 19, 2022 / epulizzi / 0 Comments

Three people stand behind a table with tall Brandeis University signs on either side

From left to right: Director of Admissions Christie Barone, Brandeis GPS Alumni Craig Cailler, and Assistant Director of Partnership Engagement Michaela Henry

Last week, Brandeis GPS sponsored UXPA Boston’s annual conference. The event was a day-long, in person conference featuring networking opportunities, professional development sessions, and several panels and keynote speakers about different topics in the industry.

Our own User-Centered Design (UCD) faculty and board members were integral to the success of the day. UCD faculty member Bob Thomas is President of UXPA Boston. He kicked off the day with a welcome address, and later hosted a group mentoring session. The chair of the UCD program, Eva Kaniasty, was featured on the panel “Design of Design Education,” along with program board members Chris Hass and Lou Susi.

Four people sit in a row of chairs on a stage, one speaking into a microphone

“Design of Design Education” Panel at UXPA Boston | From left to right: Jason Reynolds, Amy Heymans, Eva Kaniasty, and Chris Hass

Chris Hass is on the board of UXPA Boston as well.

Lou Cimaglia, a Brandeis GPS Lunch and Learn speaker, also gave a talk titled “Content Isn’t A Word: A Team Approach to UX Writing.” His Lunch and Learn – register here! – will be this Thursday, October 20 at 12pm.

For more information on the User-Centered Design program or any other GPS programs, visit our website.

User-Centered-Design-Brandeis-GPS-Masters-Program

Users are in control. Find out how to reach them.

December 11, 2017 / cchatell / 0 Comments

First comes product or service, then comes user. Right? Unfortunately, this simple method no longer holds true in our user-driven society. In today’s world, the user always comes first.

In order to create a product or service with staying power, you need to first find out who your user is. Then, you need to find out what they want, how they behave, and their likes and dislikes. User-Centered Design has become an integral element in the creation of just about any product or service.

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Analytics and tech dominate 2017 top jobs list

January 26, 2017 / memiller / 0 Comments

If you’re a data scientist, you’re lucky enough to possess what Glassdoor calls the best job of 2017.

The online recruiting site released its annual top jobs list earlier this week, and it’s no surprise that data analytics dominated the majority of the positions in the top 10.

“We suddenly have a new and abundant resource that previously didn’t exist on such a scale: data — big data,” said Ellen Murphy, director of program development at Brandeis University’s division of Graduate Professional Studies (GPS). “Individuals with the skills and knowledge on how to mine this resource, refine this resource and use it strategically, are what industries are demanding. The need for data specialists will only continue to grow and expand.”

According to EAB, Glassdoor researchers examined user data and member profiles and assigned job ratings based on three primary criteria: median annual base salaries, overall job satisfaction and the number of openings for each position. Here’s Glassdoor’s top 10 jobs with median base salary and job score:

Data Scientist, $110,000, 4.8/5
DevOps Engineer, $110,000, 4.7/5
Data Engineer, $106,000, 4.7/5
Tax Manager, $110,000, 4.7/5
Analytics Manager, $112,000, 4.6/5
HR Manager, $85,000, 4.6/5
Database Administrator, $93,000, 4.5/5
Strategy Manager, $130,000, 4.5/5
UX Designer, $92,500, 4.4/5
Solutions Architect, $125,000, 4.4/5

View Glassdoor’s full list of the 50 best jobs in America here.

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How psychology can change user behavior

November 14, 2016 / croldan / 0 Comments

In a world where websites and digital ad networks serve us nearly one million marketing messages each year, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to capture the attention of web users going about their daily business. As content consumers, we tend to be task-oriented and ignore the things around us. “Banner blindness” occurs when users automatically ignore the ad-heavy right side of web pages.

As most of us tend to skim web content quickly, bulleted lists and short paragraphs to break up text are considerably effective at keeping users engaged. When it comes to online marketing, understanding the psychology behind web user activity is crucial to successfully promoting a product or running a business.

These topics are furthered explored in Brandeis University’s Cognitive and Social Psychology of User-Centered Design spring 2017 course. As part of the MS in User-Centered Design graduate program, this part-time, fully online course will examine the psychological and social aspects that impact human interface interaction in both physical and virtual environments. Topics will include:

Signal Detection Theory, Gestalt Theory, Cognitive Load Theory and various motivational theories
The cultural and social implications of design
Cognitive and social psychology principles that will impact the use of a particular design

By the end of the course, students will be able to make reasonable predictions of human behavior with regards to a user interface and/or design and offer design solutions that will ensure effective user experience based on these principles.

Those interested in the course who do not yet wish to pursue a full master’s degree can still participate. At Brandeis GPS, you can take up to two online courses without officially enrolling in a program. This is a great opportunity to get to know our programs and approach to online learning. View our full course catalog here, and preview our spring 2017 courses here.

Questions? Questions? Contact our enrollment team at gps@brandeis.edu or 781-736-8787.

Brandeis University’s Graduate Professional Studies division (GPS) is dedicated to developing innovative programs for working professionals. GPS offers 11 fully online, part-time master’s degrees and one online graduate certificate. With three 10-week terms each year, Brandeis GPS provides exceptional programs with a convenient and flexible online approach. Courses are small by design and led by industry experts who deliver individualized support and professional insights. For more information on our programs visit the Brandeis GPS website.

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.

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