Should you Become a UX Designer or Front-End Developer? (Career Advice)

[@brianjacobs8839]

I'm teaching myself front-end development. Thereafter I'll be doing UX. My aim is to become a UX developer with some knowledge of front-end web development. I'm 42 and fearing ageism might be a hurdle but I'm pushing through. Thanks for your awesome videos.

[@Santechnikai]

What was your job before?

[@brianjacobs8839]

@@Santechnikai I worked for a major international oil company but was retrenched after 11 years.

[@brianjacobs8839]

@Greg Mario Simileer I got side tracked but I found employment at at an online education company. UXD is one of the courses on our portfolio. Expensive though but I can do it for free. I am starting in May. I have always liked design more than intricate coding. Your FE studies will be useful in UXD.

[@brianjacobs8839]

I know of someone who studied coding but it wasn't for her. She switched to UXD and got a job at Mailchimp. Her life changed for the better in a few months.

[@cassandrasampson23]

@@brianjacobs8839 Interesting. I'm teaching myself to code but am interested in UXD. Where did she learn UX?

[@avaturner5056]

This is a really hard choice for me. I definitely lean creative, but I’m also kind of introverted and anxious and prefer to do self-directed creative work. UX seems like much more social work that requires you to constantly justify what is inherently kind of ambiguous (i.e. aesthetics), even if you’re being supplemented with research. With coding, for the most part, it either works or it doesn’t, and if it doesn’t you just read more-not a lot of bullshitting required. I love being creative, but I wonder if doing so for the purposes of a corporate behemoth whose mission I don’t really care about would be worse than just clocking in, writing the code I’m told to write, and going home. Another concern for me is that I’m not sure I get the impression that UX is as flexible as development. Ultimately, I’d prefer to make a modest living working part-time, leaving me energy to go home and do *real* art and social passion projects. Maybe I’m wrong, but I feel like development is probably more modular and elastic in that regard.

[@alexisrawson6451]

This explains literally everything that I've been feeling and worrying about with trying to make a decision!

[@acestepz]

You've literally voiced everything I've been wondering about... hopefully you (and we) get advice because I'm so confused too!

[@learnperseveresucceedrepea4111]

I think I would advise you to do UX on the side. And take what fits your life best and brings you decent income more seriously.

[@learnperseveresucceedrepea4111]

Though I have yet to even understand the difference between UI/UX, Front end, Back end, and have yet to take the first step to learn any of it.

[@FeelinErie]

Are we twins?? XD (INFJ here). This is EXACTLY my dilemma too! I come from a Fine Art background. recently been trying to build an Illustration portfolio (food), currently temping as a Receptionist for a corporate firm. A few months back, I enrolled on a UX Design course, but have since been thinking about studying Front-End Development for the exact same reasons as you. I just don't really want to be bothered a whole lot. I spend 15yrs in front of house jobs where I had to be "on". It was never fun, the tech industry felt so intimidating, and I didn't know about coding careers until a few years ago.

[@Anonymous-nn4sk]

I got interested in web development (even though i don't like coding) because i realized its a great job for people who don't like dealing with people. I considered UX design for a long time but dropped the idea when i told that you need to be dealing with people constantly.

[@sukhoijetfighter7634]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 My soulmate!!!!

[@luumaven]

This is where I’m stuck at. Because i love the idea of UX design but I prefer to not deal with people lol

[@torimonet8402]

@@luumaven LMFAOO literally same. I’m introverted and have social anxiety

[@torimonet8402]

I heard by someone else that UI’s don’t present as much, but I’m pretty sure you still have to deal with people constantly. Also a lot of companies seem to not understand the difference and combine the two

[@luumaven]

@@torimonet8402 i understand, i think I’m going to just stick with front end dev

[@busyrand]

I'm a Full Stack Developer with a deep appreciation for good UX Design... I love the minutia of the problem-solving aspect of Coding. Great video!

[@annemiya3856]

Hey how is being full stack developer? I am clueless bout this all and want a real advice on career! I am creative and hates stress. I also like coding...

[@HilariousHeavenn]

​@@annemiya3856 bro what are you doing in your life right now?

[@JuanSidberry]

Mike, this is a big question we all struggle with. I have to say both careers require creativity and problem-solving skills. You have said: if you are REALLY GOOD at what you do, and demonstrate it, you get PAID for it. You give great advice!

[@ckernest]

I struggled with this issue too. a lot of digital designers have both design as well as coding skill but it is almost impossible to be great in both areas.

[@Mattheus94]

Great video Mike. TLDW: Don't become a Unicorn. Pick one and perfect those skills.

[@BlackTarzanDME]

This helped me choose front end development definitively. Thank you. I don't really possess the visual artistic skill to be a great UI designer as a career choice. I looked into it because it kept coming up in my developer job searches so I wanted to clearly define the differences in the careers

[@sauravrastogi8349]

You're spot on! I also think coding helps a lot if you're a UX Designer too. I do both and I know the value coding brings inside design.

[@jeaniek4980]

I am a creative soul so I feel that UX design would be more fulfilling for me. Although I do love code.

[@ДарьяЮдина-б3щ]

Hey! What did you decide to choose in the end?

[@prabodhjadhav2167]

Hey, that's my description too..😁

[@hajarme21]

which is alot fun

[@erronwhite8771]

This reminds me so much of myself. I have passion for both. I also see many job postings where they ask for not only the design skills, but also the development (HTML, CSS, JS) skills as well. If not all 3, they at least want you to know HTML and CSS along with PS, AI, SKETCH, wire framing, prototyping etc.. Great Video! Im still trying to make a choice.

[@JideLambo]

I've always been in this situation all my career. My current job requires me to do research, design prototypes and code the Front-end development (using angular, typescript). I guess it takes a company that supports specialists instead of a generalist, to support Mike's argument.

[@HilariousHeavenn]

So bro what are you doing right now?

[@erronwhite8771]

@@HilariousHeavenn I do a mixture of both. I'm a web designer who designs and codes. For very company you apply at, the requirements are gonna be different.

[@GuitarsRgood7]

Really helpful info! I'm a graphic designer and I've been studying HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, so I've been applying to web dev jobs. I didn't even really know what UI/UX design was until today. My favorite part is designing the layout of a website, and figuring out how to make it responsive for mobile. I'm more of a creative person and struggle with coding, so I'm going to start applying to UI/UX jobs!

[@GuitarsRgood7]

@Dean I would focus on UI/UX. It pays much more, and I think there are more jobs. But digital graphic design is a big part of UI/UX so it's a good idea to learn both.

[@HilariousHeavenn]

So bro what are you doing right now?

[@GuitarsRgood7]

@@HilariousHeavenn oh wow I must have gotten my UI/UX Dev job shortly after writing this. I didn't even apply to it, a LinkedIn recruiter reached out to me. I've kept this job for the last 3.5 years. I like it because I get to do UI/UX work and coding so I don't get bored of doing either of them. Also I do freelancing on the side. I don't actively search for it anymore but I have a few clients who keep contacting me for more work, and if I shop at a small business with no website, sometimes I'll offer my services.

[@EvanBlack11]

I'm in school for UX/UI Engineering and I loved the UX Design part once we got to the front in development I'm like WTF my brain is hurting. Now I'm stressing that I won't be able to find a job with just my UX design certification if I'm not able to finish my UI Engineering part. But after watching this video you eased my mind alot. I'm still going to press through the UIE part but I love designing screens in figma much more. Thanks

[@soflogator]

I've been teaching myself FE dev for a short while now and have become very proficient in HTML & CSS. I recently spent some time learning about UI design and found it a bit interesting. Now I'm at a point where I'm looking to decide whether I should learn JavaScript and continue down the FE-dev route, or switch gears into UX/UI. It's an interesting situation I'm in because when I first decided to learn FE dev I really didn't even know anything about UI/UX. So I'm here watching your video and learning all that I can about UX/UI so I can decide over the weekend whether to go the UX/UI route or to crack open my JavaScript textbooks on Monday. It's an interesting situation, but I'm glad you reinforced the belief that I was developing - the idea that you have to choose ONE. I don't care about the salary as much as I care about having a career where I can be competent and not burn myself out with stress and insane problems. Thanks for sharing your insight. I'm excited to learn more about UX/UI and see if it's the right choice for me.

[@FreddieMercuryyy]

Hi! You mention that you taught yourself FE Dev. Please I'd like to know how you went about it. I also want to start the journey from level 0 lol. I have no prior knowledge of coding or anything relating to it. Thanks

[@alexf1515]

You know now I find ourselve in the same position and I really don't know which way will be right...

[@Epikht]

@@FreddieMercuryyy I started to learn by my self a few months ago as well, and I think u should start with HTML, CSS and Java script. U will find some interesting videos about them here and one of my favorite teacher is Mike he as a video about HTML that is extremely helpful

[@happysloth91]

it's hard to ditch what I learned in front-end development but the reality is, I'm into UX more because I can see that I'm making the product not just executing "some orders", and also I'm into design. Should I go all the way?

[@johnbalboa8120]

If that's what you're heart tells you, then yes. Don't listen to your head.

[@HilariousHeavenn]

So bro what are you doing right now?

[@andrewillomitzer3711]

Your point at 8 minutes really helped me out. Even though I was self teaching web development for a long while, I am going to attend a local community college for Interaction Design. Whenever I would do a project online or even start my own website planning less of the focus would be on the code, and more about why it was best to do things a certain way. Why is that button there? What purpose does this information section serve? I think I am much better at questioning things than I am at sticking to a design I am given and just coding it up exactly to specification. I think if you find yourself asking "why?" a lot then UX could be a decent career for you.

[@LOL99663]

Great explanation! Thanks for the insights!

[@ciprianghenghea7779]

@@LOL99663 LOL what a name you have 😂😂

[@ypaut]

As an IT student, I thought UX/UI and front end were the same. Nice video sir.

[@eclecticbrowngirl]

All these people with all these critiques of this video, and not even one of them have their own videos that display their perfect solutions....keep up the excellent work Mike, and completely dismiss the haters.

[@thedeveloper4207]

India Represent! I'm a Full Stack Developer and also doing UX!.....Been watching your videos since you had about 5k Subscribers....Thanks Sir...You have come a long way

[@KaNisa_Sharie]

Mike your right. I keep going back and forth with myself. I enjoy doing both but I’ve always been skilled in designing. I even started out as a graphic designer first. However, in my area it seems like there’s more jobs and internships for web developers. I think I need to focused more on being a designer. It’s great you’ve mentioned this in your video.

[@MikeLocke]

Appreciate you sharing your insight.

[@jordycg5818]

Thanks for the video. I’ve currently been self teaching myself HTML CSS and Js for the past 5 months and can build responsive functional websites (only dom manipulation) nothing crazy but I LOVE the ui portion of it. Ui/ux seems so much more fun (for someone like me) I’m bored with coding. The salary difference doesn’t matter to me. I did front end because I thought that it was easier to get into (even though it might be) I want to do what I like

[@HilariousHeavenn]

So bro what are you doing right now? You got the job Or not?

[@llyrrian]

Thank you so much! I was really having a hard time deciding, I kept feeling pulled in both directions. The succinct way that you put this really cleared the air for me and helped me decide and feel confident in that decision. I appreciate this video, thank you again!

[@NatureFreak1127]

I find my days were more peaceful, when I was coding front end, as opposed to UX, which I do nowadays. It has something to do with politics, which is a part of it, whether we like it or not. And I find, that as a woman, men take me less seriously too, even if my ideas are better. As a developer, i don't need to burden myself with at times lousy product management and competing product priorities and XY ways I can view and approach a problem. Or even find the right problem. As a dev, I just build it. I am thinking about learning react and going back to development. It was less stress and I enjoyed it more.

[@unknown-kn4uf]

Is it true that you are paid less in ui ux rather than in front/back end or full stack?

[@NatureFreak1127]

@@unknown-kn4ufSorry, if this sounds a bit incoherent, it is 5am and my eyes are closing. :D In my country, it depends.There are variables to consider: years of experience, size of company, how saturated the market is, who you know, how broad and/or deep your skills are, how you are with people... After more than 3 years in UX trenches (1 year of coding) I am paid slightly better than some of my acquaintances, who are backend engineers of 4-6 years of experience + 5 years of uni. I have seen some statistics about UX salaries here and currently I am in the mid-range of what is possible. Market in my country is not too saturated with UXers, much less the good ones and companies are desperate. I am quite versatile, as I can do anything from research to work in Illustrator (with varying results tho); easy to work with, perceptive and quite quick thinking. But consider this - I started from the bottom being ridiculously underpaid (partially my fault too, I was so happy to get my foot in the door, that I undervalued myself), so I'm the long-term, they have more money than me. For now, because I think, that UX is a bit more sustainable for future in terms of staying atop of your game when it comes to skills. That is, if you are in a company, where people are not assholes, because when you're UX, politics can affect your work a lot and you could burn out there - happened to me. While UX principles won't change much due to human psychology, technology is rapidly evolving and frankly, I don't see many old programmers in my vicinity. So if you consider income over years, it might be a tie or even slightly better for UX. I mentioned backend engineers, now I will mention the front-end ones. Most programmers who have CS background frow upon frontend here. People get into frontend by studying in bootcamps. There aren't that many frontend devs and yet again, even fewer good ones. Good react engineers usually earn 40% more, than my backend friends.

[@katec9893]

Hi there can you share how much of your job is presenting and working with others? Is it constant interaction? I'm an introvert former teacher and textile designer wanting to change careers. I'd like something that's not super stressful where I could work remotely, ideally doing something creative. Someone recommended UI design to me which I'd never heard of before.

[@NatureFreak1127]

@@katec9893 Hi! Well, my job as a UX designer is very much about the communication (and my Teams account says I spend 30% of my time doing it however they count it from 9-5 and I don't work 8 hours, but about 6). I talk to people all the time (standups and groomings with developers; meetings with my UX team, research and testing with customers and communication with product team). Developers tend to be rather introverted (the stereotypes are there for a reason lol) and they tend to be more neurotic and disagreeable. My UX colleagues are mostly introverted as well, but more agreeable and less neurotic. I am semi-introverted. The introversion thing is great because we don't waste much time on small talk. 😅 Our product managers are more extroverted, less neurotic and semi-agreeable and it depends with the customers. But when someone is interested in talking to us, they are usually pretty friendly and eager to help (polar opposite of what customer service people have to deal with). But your work is under constant scrutiny from everyone. You need to explain what kind of problem you're solving, why you're solving it this way (show us user flow and use cases) and what's the desired outcome and what metrics you'll use to measure it. This is my experience as UX designer of three years. Maybe UI designers are more on their own but we don't have such highly specialized people, only UX designers and UX researchers. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. :)

[@NatureFreak1127]

@@katec9893 I usually present my work up to 8 people max.

[@enzigenes]

Hi Mike, I've been a fan of your videos for some time now. Often, I will watch two or three of your videos every single morning once I get to work for inspirational purposes. I've been struggling for years trying to decide where to take my next step. I've been a graphic designer/multimedia designer for over eight years. I do have solid knowledge about design, aesthetics, UI, and some web dev experience too. My problem is I struggle with picking a side as to whether I should just be a developer or UI UX. It's really frustrating for me. I'm more of a visual person, but I like to understand how things function, so I try to learn as much as front end stuff as possible. Thanks for all your advice it helps me a lot.

[@karrieporter5281]

Go for both. And become a UX developer because in reality both these fields are closely related to one another.

[@RuthMcDougal]

I’m very much a true ambivert. My BFA is in Fine Art and Masters in UXD. I think I would like UX Research more than design because it seemed like most designers were just on their laptops in Figma or Sketch, creating wireframes, etc but not as much time strategizing or collaborating. Whereas most researchers told me they were actually creating and conducting the studies. As well as talking to different people about their experiences and having to analyze and report the findings (as well as defend them). I know that depends on the company though too. I don’t like visual design as much. In school I always liked conceptualizing or planning the design more than actually creating the design. I really dislike using the design programs. Photoshop is fun when I want to do cute photo stuff for friends, not for work. I love data, science, math, strategy, problem solving, but also understanding why that problem exists and how to mitigate it. I am unsure if developing would be a better fit or design (many of the UXR jobs are a bit harder to get without doctorates and lab experience). I like coding but the minute I have to make wireframes and prototypes I’m bored. So I guess if I have to be on the computer I want to be alone doing my own thing with JS or interviewing to people for UXR but I don’t want to be designing visual elements AT ALL.

[@xzc81]

I love how you used the example of the car. I could care less about engine specs & how fast it goes. I much rather worry about how the design looks and feels. So I think I might try out UI/UX instead of front end dev.

[@octm1]

Just X yeah! that helped realized UI/UX design was for me i don’t give a shit about what kind of engine a car has lmaooo i like the look of it that’s it

[@kaiindigowolf1534]

I'm glad I found your video! These are exactly my dilemmas and concerns. I have a goal to move out of the country in 5-10 years and I'm weighing what I feel more passionate about (design) versus the ease of emigrating with web engineer careers. I really really want there to be a UX/UI engineer type position ha!

[@vineethak2529]

Wooow. Finally doubts are off my mind. Great job Mike

[@shaliah6827]

Wow I really needed to see this video, I had been stalling BOTH journeys because I couldn't decide on one. Front-end development was an obvious starting point in tech for me, but the truth is I love design, and I am alll about the aesthetic (great explanation of the different personalities of each field, btw!). It's UX for me! :)

[@unknown-kn4uf]

Hey! I am also the same like you. I love aesthetics. So how are you doing in your life?

[@abhasgupta354]

So how’s it going for you?

[@shaliah6827]

@@abhasgupta354 I'm an event planner now 😅😂 funny how things shake out

[@abhasgupta354]

@@shaliah6827 oh wow that’s quite a pivot 😆

[@timberchase7772]

Thank you for this video, great insight and layout on how to choose. I'm on this dilemma and not sure which to choose. This is helping me to decide.

[@HalloJochen]

I love UX design but I hate prototyping and visual design. It was also frustrating to never see the product that I imagined. I thought UX design would be a lot more about functionality - so in the end I picked Front-end.

[@hobbiesandhustles]

Doing just design you will ALWAYS be hungry to know how to make things actually work. After switching to development I have to say there is absolutely no comparison for me of making a beautiful engaging design versus making something automated and data moving around. The feeling you get when you figure out a algorithm and get your code working just doesn't compare. Learn C# and you can make everything from Windows Apps, to Web/Mobile apps and oh yeah video games. Design technology moves slow. You have plenty of time to learn to code once you've learned design.

[@missgreenbottles]

Mario Mitchell thanks for this. I’m very creative, but love coding really torn between the two. You hit the nail on the head I’d totally miss fixing things too! Who says a designer/dev can’t continue to be creative :)

[@waltermelo1033]

i want to go to UX design but the part of talking with a lot of people is really hard to me. can you talk more about being UX designer if you're not so "social"?

[@LizzAngelus]

as someone who is a ux designer who doesnt like to talk to many people, there isnt rly a way around it. Ive had to talk and present to countless teammates, managers, VPs, PMs, engineers and its difficult if you are not social or dont like talking much :/

[@itzMarcMan]

Awesome video Mike! This is great stuff, its what I needed. I couldn't get past what actual key elements are different. This is the video I'm been trying to find for weeks! Thank you!

[@JimMiDaxX]

WOOOOOW....broooo its craaazy to see you on this video right now!! i thought i was tripping cause im like isnt that bro from laker talk when i was following the lakers?! hahaa...yooo its so crazy to know that this why you have been gone...its so inspiring because I too started releasing sports videos..and its fun and it is a passion BUT ITS TOO REPETITIVE FOR ME WHICH BECOMES DRAINING AF..PLUS I CANT JUST FOLLOW OTHER PEOPLES LIVES AAAAAALLLLLLLL DAY.......and i know for a fact that u most likely took a break from ur channel as well because of ur other main passions also....so i just wanted to say thanks for inspiring me with this video as im about to start school..and couldnt decide which to do first..but its prolly gonna be UX/UI design since i would basically have a head start since ive already been developing my design skills....ANYWAY GOD BLESS BRO!!! AND NOW I SUBBED TO BOTH UR CHANNELS (already subbed to laker talk)...KEEP GOING MAN!!!

[@raghibhussain1375]

Your passion takes where you want to go. Be consistent and passionate

[@Rabia_Burak]

love this..i really had a hard time choosing between being a frontend developer and Ui-Ux designerbut now i confidently have choosen to be a ui/ux designer... this video was helpful in making my final decision

[@octm1]

yeah UI/UX designer for me thank you that’s why i don’t like coding to that extent its too specific i rather use SOME code to design stuff as suppose as coding an entire project from scratch

[@raghibhussain1375]

I have been working as a front-end developer for 8 years. I love to design ui ux parts and also love to interact with customers and discuss the projects. Thanks for this video

[@vsion2056]

I like your take on utilizing UX skills as a freelance opportunity. definitely make sense if you’re still trying to get those creative juices flowing. i’m curious if you have any more outlook on how do utilize both skills independently, or if there are opportunities now three years later to where UX/ Front End development can be used in the same job. let me know if that doesn’t makes sense, would love to have a convo bout it.

[@mnajacharibt2430]

Hi Mike! Ur idea of aesthetics.. wooh! gave a much more clearer vision on UX DESIGNING. THANK U

[@johnnymeza5454]

I'm a front-end dev and want to pursue that. I love the logic puzzles. I'm here because I'm considering learning some UI/UX to have that rare combination of skills.

[@kaymeraki]

I'm heavy on the aesthetics side as well, this video was very helpful! Thank you!

[@gdj777]

If you like both do both but be realistic and patient. expertise will come with time and consistency.

[@kawaiiufocafe5399]

I like both but i can't in terms of career like both in the same way. I love code personal design projects to give life to them. Like when it to code an arduino robot that i designed first or to build my own business website from scratch so i can figure out how each part work. But in terms of career i just got the conscience that i would not have what make code fun for me . Is just make it or that and you are almost of time out of the final product decision. Just a maker, not an inventor. So I will continue coding for personal projects, hobby and use it to display for client i have a big image of what happen behind in the final product. The code will be a diferential. It is my decision and it is like put in the ground a heavy bag of javascript frameworks books and how to increase the javascript performance.

[@niyaalex6261]

Thank you very much Mike this video is really helpful. I really value your advice and your effort to explain it in detail.

[@ismailvittal]

I have seen tech companies looking for UX designers having coding background to understand what can be produced technically and what cannot be. This lets the designer to come up with an idea or concept that suites the available technical stack. UX is more of a journey and frontend is a routine 😉

[@sabdaapratama]

Hi mike, thanks for making this video and share your thoughts and experience. Now i know what I'm going to do. Thanks a lot.

[@DaliborSavic]

Ok, this is very, very important video. I'm really thankful for this video becouse my dilema was exactly like you described. I'm more into looks than code, so, design for me. Thanks for this video man!

[@zanzoy]

Thanks Mike! This video helped me decide to into the more competitive UX design field.

[@one-system]

Mike all said in this video i agreed with yo 100% but i have some different problem. I started as a graphic designer then moved to UI/UX Designer and i love to do that. BUT 1 year ago i joined a institute and they said me, that they will make me a super programmer but right now i'm not even a good front-end developer. I'm in lose now because i wasted my 1 year and my money too. it was almost 1500$ to 1800 $. I'm so depressed that I've wasted both and now i listen from you that we can't be best at both. So what advise you'll give me what should i do. I want to be a good front-end developer too because I've pay that money. And because i'm confused now so that's why i'm not getting any job in market. So please tell me what should i do now? :(

[@CastleShield]

That detail/whole image thing you're talking about is a great advice.

[@jjamerican93]

I work in communications, but loved learning how to use Adobe XD earlier this year and am curious to learn HTML & CSS in the future.

[@tellyouwhatttt22]

Same here what did yiu end up doing?

[@quentinlee2342]

Yo this came at the perfect time. Thank you so much for your time

[@designhuddlepodcast]

This is one of my favorite videos yet. Thanks for always dropping awesome content. We'd love to get you on our podcast sometime! 👍👍

[@daniel_rad]

I love that your creating educational content but learn to be more direct and avoid using cliches. 'here are the facts' etc. What you're saying is your opinions. I've been a UX UI developer for 5 years. But again, keep up the great content. :)

[@Somnivers]

Salut, poti sa dai niste sfaturi unui noob care incearca sa invete ?Mi-e frica sa investesc intr-un Mac ca sa invat Sketch ,ma intreb daca am sanse de angajare si altfel .Am background in design grafic dar nu stiu prea multe de web-design.

[@Helen_590]

I'm introverted and shy. But I realised if I let this shyness continue, I'm going to miss out on job opportunities and opportunities in life in general. I like front end designing as I can be by myself.....but its not beneficial for my long term growth! Get out of your comfort zone , conquer your fear of presenting and public speaking and networking and adapt!!

[@joshclements7059]

Thank you so much. I think UX is more of my calling

[@nt_act]

Really nice video! Just what my struggle is at this moment. I only have low experience in both and don't see a way to get a UX/UI job without some years of experience. How do you think about taking a front-end-developer job as step-up for a UX/UI dream job?

[@eclecticbrowngirl]

Right, it seems like employers are more willing to hire self taught front end developers moreso than self-taught UX Designers.

[@shawnastephens7021]

I took on a Jr. UI/UX and Developer role just to get my foot in the door. I come from a heavy graphic design background. While in my current role, I do UI, UX and UI Development (html, css, bootstrap), I'm realizing that I won't master one area. Instead, I'll just be good in different areas. Now that I have a little bit of all 3 under my belt, I can now choose my next position more wisely in deciding what field I want to place more focus on. For me, it won't be front-end development as I miss opening Sketch and diving into the aesthetics.

[@lipe6649]

Be a web designer while changing to UX/UI. Its more easy because you have more direct contact with design, and to be a web designer or a front end designer you will learn basically the same tools of UX/UI designer (Adobe CC Tools, prototype apps like XD for example) and a little bit front end (HTML, CSS and JS) maybe a very Basic PHP. It's more easy beacuse, with these skills you can get empathy with programmers, create connections between product and coding and understand some parts of the thecnical aspect of software developing and buisness/User. The principles that web designers and UX/UI designers are the same (Taxonomy, gestalt, and typography for example) So, can be more easy to move between theese positions. In design or programming, a good portfolio and certifications are very valuable.

[@Geomaverick124]

In my experience companies are looking for people who can do both. They almost expect a Front End Dev to 70 or 80% developer and 20 to 30% designer. Eventually these two positions may merge

[@ankitaahuja111]

I am on the same boat, I completed web Development full stack bootcamp and its been more than 4 months and I am looking for job and practicing.. I get so much frustrated when I do not solve the problem. whenever logic becomes complicated (for eg, when we pass the data from front end to back end and then taking the data from APIs to front end using JSON, this is a pretty complex logic and here I get so anxious). I am now feeling that I am not enjoying the hard core logic part of web development. I like HTML, CSS and animation. I am confused that should I go to UI/UX designer role. or stick to front end web development. M so much confused and pissed off.. I am in Canada and I feel there is lots of competition for junior front end development. I have no Idea about UI/UX designer.

[@vaskogood1580]

hey, try to design some pages or apps, look tutorials, follow them. And you will feel what is better choice for you.

[@vinayakagarwal5162]

Send your resume at [e-mail]

[@karimnabil1851]

Hi, Ankita. Hopefully, you're doing well. I'm on the same boat too. Trying to figure out which path I'm going to take and also planning on moving to Canada. Can I connect with you if you don't mind?

[@Gebsequanimity9300]

What did u end up doing

[@shubham_M7777]

What you do now?

[@adamsena100]

Thank you for being so clear!! Really good content

[@AdrianERosales]

So I did a fullstack bootcamp and got work after 3 months of searching after graduating. It was absolutely grueling and, being creative, I found that my passion for making things look appealing was never utilized and my input wasnt valued. Also, I am a professional opera singer and want to be able to leverage my curiosity for how the human mind works with making great experiences. I tend to be a "good enough" developer because reading scores and scores of soon to be obsolete docs makes me want to put a drill to my head. Everytime I sit down to code, after being put on a deathmatch to complete a project, I find myself sighing and then eventually punching walls and crying. That said, I do enjoy coding sometimes, believe it or not, and have a decent level of proficiency with it. I am reading lots of design books and am taking some Udemy courses in UX/UI before putting money down for another bootcamp. If I want to be able to work even less time in UX so I can still focus on music, well...have you ever seen it done? Can someone have a more mentally healthy and sustainable work life balance in UX if you're also trying to do other things? I loved this video though, it makes it feel more resolved in looking into UX. I just wish I hadn't dropped 10k into going the wrong path earlier.

[@azucenabustos1078]

Adrian Rosales what path did you go?

[@ankitaahuja111]

Oh Man!! I am on the same boat, I completed web Development full stack bootcamp and its been more than 4 months and I am looking for job and practicing.. I get so much frustrated when I do not solve the problem. whenever logic becomes complicated (for eg, when we pass the data from front end to back end and then taking the data from APIs to front end using JSON, this is a pretty complex logic and here I get so anxious). I am now feeling that I am not enjoying the hard core logic part of web development. I like HTML, CSS and animation. I am confused that should I go to UI/UX designer role. or stick to front end web development. M so much confused and pissed off.. Please help. what are you doing now a days?

[@kris4117]

Pl suggest a Good Bootcamp for front end and UX Thanks

[@calstate]

@@ankitaahuja111 If you have pretty good design UI/UX sense I would focus on that. I made the mistake of learning everything and it's very difficult. Everything has become so complicated. Stick to one thing and master it.

[@octm1]

ankita ahuja go the UI/UX designer route it’s much more doable i’m in the same boat i got into fullstack but it seems boring to me spending everyday coding i rather use SOME code to do a project than use EVERYTHING code

[@ayushimalviya8846]

This video was really meaningful to me. Thank you so much, Mike.

[@hayatmuzain3681]

very insightful indeed thank you bro!!

[@syntycheredd4802]

I really want to break into tech but my biggest factors are, which one will allow me to work remotely? and which one will I not have to constantly deal with a lot of people? I love aesthetics and design but I also just want to work and not be overwhelmed with constant interaction. I am a people person and very friendly but peopling too much drains me. I dont need to make $100K/yr but at min $60-$80K and option to work part time. I want to work, make a great wage, and go home to my family. Which one do you think will suit me best, Front end Dev, Web design, UX?

[@AD-wg8ik]

Going front-end route, but definitely want to learn some UX/UI for my personal projects.

[@JosueJoseph1991]

Sales people are more valued. I do not usually see the sales people being paid that much. I am interested in Design more but I want to be proficient in coding as well. Thank you for your insight

[@zestylemon1662]

Hey mike, nice video. I was sure that I wanted to go into graphic design and ui/Ux, because I just love everything design, but I was advised to add in front end development, that it would make stand firm at any workplace. I can’t really say I’m torn between choices😁. But mike, can I learn to be a graphic designer, ui/ux designer and a front end developer?

[@909victoria]

Thank you so much - your videos are helping me a ton

[@AmericanFluency]

Damn, super useful video, Mike. Thank you.

[@qzqx3047]

The problem with any design role is dealing with people's opinions on work that you've put your blood and sweat in. Stress management is highly needed!

[@jobielindsey6500]

thanks so much for the insight. very helpful.

[@stephf]

very helpful video, thank you!

[@eternalambition]

Thank you so much for this video!!! Are you more of a detail or overall picture kind of person?? part really made my decision to go into UX design, I would not have been able to make this decision if it was not for your video. Love from London!

[@kimcarig714]

Me too brother!

[@marlonwoods4242]

Do both and when you go to clients explain to them that if they have to hire a different designer it most likely won't have the same feel as you, the designer, intentioned it to have.

[@stevebennett8863]

Great video Mike! This is a great question I was wavering on for a long time. I am good at UX design and coding. But I know that I have to make a decision on what path to follow. Thanks for posting.

[@timur7381]

Hi Mike. Been following your videos for a while, very nice content! I have a question - I'm a graphic/digital designer with a lot of experience designing website's. However, I've never tried UX side of things (our studio had a coder off-site, and we didn't work in agile, I was doing all the design work on my own). I am thinking to switch over to UI/UX, but all the positions I see require experience in UX from getgo, I don't see any junior/entry level positions that I can take to learn the process and practices and quickly move up. How do you get the foot in the door?

[@kristenlee18]

This has been SO INCREDIBLY HELPFUL. I watched a lot of videos and did a lot of research... trouble is, the lingo can be difficult to navigate in this area and NO ONE explained things like you. I am currently doing a Web Development Bootcamp course but definitely got lost in all the lingo and ultimately, I have chosen the wrong course and need to pivot to UX design courses. I will make the most of this course because it is relatable to the field and the knowledge isn't a bad thing to have but, I may not get into the Back End coding because I feel that will be a wise use of my time and energy (got the course on sale on Udemy so won't be out too much $ at all). While market demand and pay is important to me, I definitely am drawn towards design. Thank you for all your information and candor.

[@abhasgupta354]

so what did you end up doing?

[@kristenlee18]

@@abhasgupta354 Ended up researching bootcamps (because I had no interest in returning to university/college) and then went with Career Foundry's UI Design program with a specialization in Front End Dev. (which is just a mini 3-5wk course at the end). The UI program had a project that was UX and I ended up liking UX even more than UI, so, if I was doing it again, for me personally, I would choose their UX program. I've since completed everything, have my certificates, and now job searching.

[@abhasgupta354]

@@kristenlee18 good luck for the job hunt!

[@naraku3232]

great video, this help me a lot. Thanks for your advice.

[@hsdev]

100% agree. Almost impossible to be good at both.

[@simbamadungwe]

This is my life I have to choose from UI design, Logo Design and Frontend Web Development

[@ByDaniSimone]

I always want a say in things. My question has been answered! Thank you!

[@ckernest]

yes, UX designer don't code. However, if you are a web designer, you need to design and code. from what I see in the job market, there are jobs out there which are specialized in one area but there are also other design jobs asking for web design and dev skills.

[@Potenti4lz]

I have too much OCD to be a Developer lol, I think Designer would be a breath of fresh air!

[@mariasimz]

how would that affect?

[@anapaulasousa6867]

Thanks for the video!

[@sayednaseem7981]

Watched many of your videos about UX/UI Design. I'm kinda confused if UX/UI is any different than the Graphic design because you kinda mention the aesthetics and, photoshop and visual a lot. Before, I thought UX/UI was only focused on the idea and blueprints of the UI and visual of product, not the sketching and coloring the actual product, that would be done by graphic designer. Then you have that Career Advice video on whether to become a UX/UI designer or Front end Developer. If UI/X Designer is Visuals, Aesthetics and photoshop, that means its Front end by itself, then what do you mean by "UX/UI" or "front End Developer"? Can you make it a little more clear for me pls. I kinda mix all UX, UI, and Graphic Design/front end Developer?

[@abeerasif1362]

Hi Mike , I am in such a fix , I have been a front end developer with HTML, CSS3 , Js and Angular for about 9 years and now I have transitioned to a Product designer as everyone I know is doing a front end job but I loved UX from the very beginning. Interacting with the stakeholders and creating something valuable that can actually be a working product. I love how it feels to render a complete end to end product design rather than coding a part of it and being really invisible. My Visual skills aren't top notch but Can I make a career with both ! Is there a demand for such individuals?

[@blueandbanana]

Frontend developers are in higher demand and it pays more than a backend developers however choose a career that will NOT make you miserable. No amount of money will give you true contentment. Which do you like more or hate less? Either way you still need to learn backend development so start there then try front end and see if you like it. (Do you like dealing with specifics (details) - Backend or the aesthetics/colors/layout/pretty - Frontend)

[@ObserverOfThisWorld]

Can we become ux / ui designer and ui developer as well ? Or coz of project time constraints we need to pick either design or dev n not both.

[@ericaly1123]

This helped me so much, thank you!

[@morganman2015]

Hi Mike. Just wanted to know what you thought about being a Visual Designer instead of a UI/UX Designer? The skill set seems to be a combination of html/css and traditional UI/UX design skills (at least that's what the job descriptions give the impression of). Could that be the sweat spot in terms of the perfect job for someone who still feels he/she is interested in both fields? To be perfectly honest I've been on the fence about this same topic for over ten years. But ultimately you are right, at some point you need to make a decision and choose a career path. If someone was to choose UI/UX as a career path,, how does one do freelance as a UI/UX designer? How do you find front and back-end devs willing to partner with you on projects? If you've already done a video on this subject just reply back with a link.

[@MikeLocke]

In freelance, the average small business owner doesn't understand what UX is so you always want to play up the Design (service) more so. In the job market (industry) that's when UX becomes more of a focus. At the end of the day, Visual UI Design is the essential skills everyone needs in order to design a product. In freelance, you can leverage tools like WordPress or Webflow give you what a Front-End Dev would offer. If you're working on more custom work, you'll have to leverage sites like Upwork.com for front-end dev talent.

[@oooweebaby4483]

Unemployed? Create/update the online portfolio. Polish the personal portfolio, even when they don't ask for it. Many jobs may not ask for one now in the Apprenticeship and Junior level but the solid portfolio blows away the CV / Resume. Portfolio should be sharp and your best work and even better than that, your benchmark peak of performance you are proud of with great meaning and sense of purpose.

[@alkenkeso2362]

Hi Mike, I really like your videos. One of main reasons is because you are not biased, you give your best opinions. Anyway, i have questions. I really want to be web developer so i looked up web developer vs UX/UI. I also i agree with you that UX/UI is easier. And so my question is which field will get me job sooner? do they pay about same figures? and if i was UI designer do i need to be able draw or be artistic, cuz i dont know how to draw, but if it is about creativity , i am all for it. And finally, what job outlook in next decade or beyond?

[@Saasou]

Thank you for sharing! very informative video :)

[@scoobie8amg]

If a company isn't large enough to have a UX designer than can't you take over that role as a developer? My background is in marketing so maybe I can build the website but also have a lot of creative input.

[@JadeW11]

I chose UX over Front End because it better suits my interpersonal, communication, research and artistic interests but in the back of my head I know that in my area (Atlanta) there are MANY more job openings for Jr. Developers than there are for Jr. UX Designers. Sometimes I wonder if I made the right decision when it comes to what is going to land me a job but I start my UX immersive class in a couple weeks so there’s no going back and I just have to work hard and do everything I can to prove myself worthy of a job.

[@ckernest]

I am just like you who have a hard time to decide UX/UI or front end. I live in New York and there are just more jobs for developers than designers. since I am interested in both of them, I decide to choose front end for making a living.

[@miatanksley1403]

Chanell Elizabeth Hey I have been looking into changing my career to UX/Ui designer recently. I stay in Atl and have been researching courses and classes provided. What immerse class do you take and how is it so far ?

[@ashleydowning3837]

How are things working out for you? I am at the start of my journey.

[@ashleydowning3837]

Mia Tanksley I am in ATL as well. How long have you been studying coding?

[@thechiccave9744]

Ashley Downing check out General Assembly! They have a great UX and FEWD program

[@Anonymous-bc6zl]

Do you have to know coding for UX Designer? I hate coding but I like designing

[@shontaefranklin5610]

I know this is an older video, if you see this would be cool to get your opinion. I am in school, law enforcement is my love, but I want a change, and and want something I can do as a father. I own 2 websites. To have the programs I needed in my opinion for my sites to bring in users are not available as a plugin. I need something like IG or TikTok where users can record or upload videos to my sites. I spoke with Directors from my school. The one in charge of UX program told me her program would be a great start. Looking at the CS program it will take a lot longer, and a bit harder to do while working full time. Do you think for my goal of learning front end and building a program and running a server the UX program will put me on the road? Or should I find a way with CS (Computer Science) I truly love having my websites, but not so much interested in computers period. Only doing it to gain experience where my businesses are. If you have an opinion would be cool to hear it.

[@_ankit_]

I had same doubt too but that's how I came to a conclusion. Choose a field which is tough to master bcz that's where you would be able to survive in a long run. Also in my opinion ux and design jobs would almost die in future as AI is pushing everything to the automation side so its possible that in future there would be softwares which even a kid can operate and make awesome ui ux. Coding is something which would evolve with time, there was not concepts of animated ui a few years back and now it's everywhere and it's done by coding. Similarly in future there would be so many things which would require u to code, even this field completely gets automated still your coding skills would matter in other fields.

[@isaacmijangos]

Can you do an update on this video for 2020 ?

[@druryaustin]

Please 🙏🏼