What’s the difference between UX and UI? | Web Experiences
What’s the difference between UI and UX?
Good web experience can be catalyzed by a good interface (UI), consequently causing good user experience (UX). But what’s the difference between UX and UI?
User Interface (UI)
User Interface (UI) is a system by which a user interacts with a machine. The term user interface literally means “user between face” – how the user ‘faces’ the system and how the system ‘faces’ the user. User interface is a component that makes up user experience, but not the other way around. Simply put, “user interface is the primary tangible means by which the user experience of a product occurs”.
Best UI design practices for a user friendly interface include:
- Keeping your interface simple and easy to understand: Making it too complicated will make it hard for the user to navigate.
- Repeat motifs in your design to create consistency: Using repetition in your design makes it easier for the user to navigate through the website and to understand the design.
- Use typography to create text hierarchy: Make use of different fonts, font sizes, and font color to create order and organization in your website
- Use color to direct and redirect attention: Control the user’s eye flow by using contrast, light, and texture.
User Experience (UX)
User Experience (UX) is a user’s thoughts and feelings about using a system, product, or service. Common variables that impact user experience include utility, ease of use, and efficiency, all of which impacts a user’s perception of a commodity. Aside from practicality, User experience also stresses on the experiential, meaningful, and affective aspects of the system. Good UX is especially important for companies, brands, and business professionals alike as the user’s experience on your website directly translates to their perception and image of your brand.
Why is it important to distinguish between UI and UX?
It’s common to have UI and UX designers working on the same project. As a result, it is important to understand and be able to properly distinguish the roles and responsibilities of an interaction designer vs a UX designer. Better understanding your team allows you to fully utilize their skills, expertise, and services to create the optimal web experience with a good interface, consequently creating good user experience. Understanding the differences between UI and UX is essential in establishing the foundation of a successful product as you can differentiate what makes great UI vs great UX.
For examples on good user experience websites, check out this article by Trone and this article by CareerFoundry!
