How different between UI & Graphics?
Before we begin, let me introduce my background. I have over 6 years of experience in the graphic design industry,
which I truly enjoy and appreciate. However, as we discuss learning and enhancing skills—what I like to refer to as ‘Improvement’—I’d like to share my perspective on the evolution of abilities. We can then move on to a few questions.
What’s a graphic designer?
That’s an insightful question for this job description. In my opinion, it’s just the starting point. The word ‘graphic’ originates from the Greek word ‘Graphikos’ (γραφικός), which means ‘pertaining to writing or drawing.’ It entered English via Latin and French. It’s fascinating to note the emphasis on the words [Write] and [Draw]. Historically, we refer to images crafted through human skill and artistry as ‘graphics.’
Cr: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/45000-year-old-pig-painting-indonesia-may-be-oldest-known-animal-art-180976748/
Cr: https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/article/for-the-first-time-youll-be-able-to-read-ancient-egyptian-literature-in-english/
Based on the example above, That’s the symbol came from human writing or drawing for some reason. What kind of reason do they want? The answer from my intuition is “Communication”. The human would like to express what they think or they see through images that look like their experience. Just like the famous artist named Leonardo Davinci. He creates a masterpiece just like “The Mona Lisa”. The painting shows about Renaissance’s emphasis on humanism, individualism, and naturalism.
The Graphic design shall be the same once but for a variety of purposes or methods. But The first ability of the designer should be “How to create it for communication?”. This is a challenge every time when need to start drawing or die-cut even picking some color for it. Example: When you want to create a poster to present a jazz concert, So, How to communicate to the audience to understand what they looking in this poster? , Music Note?, Cozy color?, Where is the concert location? How to place those elements on it? You can see the overall of it then go next question.
What’s UI Designer?
The Interaction Design Foundation describes this job as follows: “User interface (UI) design is the process designers use to build interfaces in software or computerized devices, focusing on looks or style. Designers aim to create interfaces which users find easy to use and pleasurable. UI design refers to graphical user interfaces and other forms—e.g., voice-controlled interfaces.”
We cannot deny that since the year 2000, technology has advanced rapidly, with touch screens now being widely used. As a result, UI design has gained prominence in the industry. UI designers are skilled in creating unique interfaces for applications and websites. As I mentioned earlier about graphics, communication is paramount. UI design is no exception, but it demands additional skills to enhance this communication. While UI designers still employ artistic abilities, they must also consider the functional aspects of design to ensure effective interaction. What’s the button used for?
How can users determine when to start clicking or dragging in an interface? UI designers also collaborate with UX designers to understand how elements such as shape, color, and overall design affect the user experience. This means they provide not just information, but also how to humans can interact with this.
I want to discuss UI design in the context of a website for a jazz concert, which includes features like ticket reservations and purchases. Beyond the design aspects we’ve discussed previously, how does UI design address specific challenges?
For example:
• How does a UI designer prioritize and structure elements such as titles, subtitles, and buttons?
• What considerations are made for different types of buttons to ensure clarity and usability?
• How should the importance of elements be reflected in their design and placement?
• What strategies are used to help users easily find location information, especially when the screen might be overwhelming?
You see, while UI and graphic design are related, we take different approaches to our work and considerations. Currently, we have separated these career paths to better support each other, referring to the role as a ‘Visual Designer.’ The Visual Designer provides various images and visual elements to enhance the overall UI design.
Concluded
Graphic designers and UI designers share foundational design skills and a common goal of effective communication, which is why their career paths may seem similar. However, their perspectives and skill requirements differ significantly. UI designers must adapt their skills to focus on interactive elements, usability, and user experience, whereas graphic designers often concentrate on visual aesthetics and static content. Both roles require a deep understanding of how to convey messages clearly, but UI design involves additional considerations related to user
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