Breaking Down UI vs. UX

If you’re looking to get into web design or cultivate a better understanding of the digital landscape, the buzzwords UI and UX are likely to be in the forefront of your mind. But what do they really mean and how do they differ? In this article, we’ll break down the concepts of UI and UX and explore the impact they can have on design and user experience.

What is UI?

UI stands for “user interface.” Essentially, UI is the means by which an application or website allows its users to interact and navigate its features. It involves everything from the layout and color scheme of a webpage, to the positions of buttons, banner ads and other interactive elements. Good UI design should make an application simple and intuitive to use, while still being visually appealing.

What is UX?

UX, or “user experience,” is more holistic than UI, encompassing the entire experience a user has with a product. It involves touch points between the user and the product—everything from the initial impression upon encountering a website, to the program’s ease of use and overall satisfaction. A good user experience should make a user feel good about the product.

Comparing and Contrasting UI and UX

Finding the Right Balance

An Example

Imagine you’re designing a website for an e-commerce store. You could use flashy graphics and an elaborate layout to make your site seem more visually appealing—this would be good for UI. However, if your UX were negative, with long load times, confusing navigation and a difficult checkout process, you would likely lose customers. It’s important to pay attention to the interaction between the two designs in order to create a memorable and engaging user experience.

Conclusion