The design industry's obsession with likes is holding us back
What the f*** is going on and how can we shift our focus and create designs that truly solve problems
Welcome to Learn Primitives!
Here's what you'll learn:
Industry's obsession with likes
What is our true goal in design?
How can we get out of this rut?
and much more…
Let’s dive in…
Obsessed with likes you say? Yes, there is a big difference between likes on social media and truly good design and I'll break it down for you.
It seems like every new website these days is trying to outdo the last in terms of flashy animations and transitions. But is this really what users want? The obsession with making everything move is a symptom of a larger problem in the design industry - a focus on form over function.
The design industry is in a state of flux, and many designers are wondering what the f*** is going on. It seems like every day there's a new trend or fad that everyone is trying to follow. From flashy animations and transitions to bold color schemes and unconventional layouts, it's easy to get caught up in the hype.
Many are now more concerned with creating designs that will get likes on social media than with creating great design that meets the needs of their clients.
This sucks.
This has led to a proliferation of samey designs that prioritize aesthetics over usability and functionality.
When we prioritize visual appeal over usability and accessibility, we create websites that are frustrating to use and alienate our users. Making flashing portfolio sites are cool but…
As designers, our ultimate goal is to solve a problem for our users:
We need to focus on creating websites that are not only visually appealing but also functional and user-friendly.
We need to put the needs of our users first and prioritize usability and accessibility over visual appeal.
As designers, we need to remember that our ultimate goal is not to create something that looks cool, but to solve a problem for our users. We need to prioritize usability and accessibility over visual appeal. When we forget this, we create websites that are frustrating to use and alienate our users.
It's time for a change in the design industry. Let's focus on creating websites that are not only visually appealing but also functional and user-friendly. Let's stop the obsession with making everything move and start putting the needs of our users first.
But first, let's acknowledge the root cause of this habit: Seeing likes as good design.
Please don't fall into the trap of thinking that likes on platforms like Twitter, Dribbble, and Instagram are the ultimate measure of good design.
When we strive for likes, we get caught in a vicious cycle. The solution is not to eliminate likes but to change our response to them.
Truth bomb
If we want to make the design industry a better place for everyone, we need to start by changing our approach.
Focus on the problem: Before diving into design, make sure you truly understand the problem you're trying to solve. What are the pain points for your users, and how can you address them? By focusing on the problem first, you'll create designs that are truly effective and user-centered.
Collaborate with others: Design is often a collaborative process, and working with others can help you create better designs and solve more complex problems. Seek out opportunities to collaborate with other designers, developers, and stakeholders, and be open to feedback and new ideas.
Prioritize usability and accessibility: Flashy animations and eye-catching color schemes might get a lot of likes on social media, but they don't necessarily make for good design. Prioritize usability and accessibility over visual appeal, and focus on creating designs that truly meet the needs of your users.
Keep learning and evolving: The design industry is constantly evolving, and it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques. Attend workshops, read design blogs, and learn from other designers to keep your skills sharp and your designs fresh.
Quality and impact aren't (always) quantified in likes.
So let's stop the madness. Let's stop chasing likes and start creating designs that truly solve problems and meet the needs of our users. Together, we can make the design industry a better, more thoughtful, and more user-centered place.
Good design follows principles and feedback, not likes
Until next time,
Pascal & Mitchell
Hey, Mitchell & Pascal here! Thanks for checking out this week’s free edition of the Shaping Design newsletter. We strive to send you the best tips and our very own unique perspective each week. Subscribe to get each article!
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