Harness the Power of AI: Transform Your UX Workflow

Introduction: Embracing AI for UX Productivity

In this episode of the Boagworld Podcast, we delve into the transformative role of AI in UX and web design. From cutting-edge Figma plugins to tools that revolutionize SEO, Paul Boag and Marcus Lillington share insights, tools, and strategies that can elevate your workflow. Whether you're a seasoned designer or new to the field, there's something here to enhance your productivity and effectiveness.

The Challenges of Broadband and Digital Evolution

Paul kicks things off with a good old moan about his broadband woes, lamenting his epic quest for faster internet speeds. It’s the kind of saga every techie can relate to, complete with bureaucratic bungling and dashed hopes. Meanwhile, Marcus jumps in with his usual dose of cheeky humor, poking fun at Paul’s plight while reminding us all to roll with the punches in our ever-evolving digital lives.

Exploring the Potential of Bluesky

Bluesky, a decentralized social platform, captures Paul's attention. Unlike traditional platforms, it allows users to choose algorithms that align with their preferences while maintaining their profiles. This adaptability is akin to email protocols where different clients coexist, offering flexibility and control. Paul’s enthusiasm highlights the importance of platforms designed with user autonomy at their core. Follow Paul on Bluesky to stay updated and chat.

Tools of the Week: Pathway and Baymard’s Figma Plugin

Pathway

Pathway is a user research platform offering robust features such as:

• Card sorting
• Prototype testing
• Surveys
• Five-second tests

Its generous free tier makes it a valuable resource for freelancers and small teams, allowing up to three projects and 250 responses per month.

Baymard Figma Plugin

Baymard’s free plugin brings data-driven insights directly into your Figma designs. Use it to:

• Justify design decisions with evidence-based reasoning.
• Include client-facing explanations for features like carousels or negative space.

This tool bridges the gap between design intuition and client buy-in, making it indispensable for designers.

SEO: From Skepticism to Acceptance

Paul reflects on his evolving perspective on SEO, a topic he once viewed with strong skepticism. In fact, he even wrote a post on Smashing Magazine that captured his cynicism about the field at the time. While that article highlights why many designers have been wary of SEO, Paul’s perspective has evolved significantly. With guidance from Paul Edwards, he’s embraced modern SEO strategies that align with user experience, including:

1. Language Optimization: Crafting content with the phrases users actually search for.
2. User Journey Focus: Understanding informational, navigational, comparative, and transactional keywords.
3. Technical Improvements: Enhancing site performance, fixing broken links, and ensuring accessibility.

The synergy between SEO and UX is undeniable. When done right, SEO not only improves search rankings but also creates a more user-friendly experience.

The AI Revolution in Design

AI is redefining how designers approach their work. Paul shares some standout tools:

Figma AI

Figma’s AI features include:

• Renaming layers for clarity
• Pre-populating content fields
• Auto-generating layouts

While its design-from-scratch capabilities remain underwhelming, these quality-of-life features can save designers significant time.

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