What Does a UX/UI Designer Do in Web Design?

2 Dec

Elwyn briefly introduces the role of UX and UI specialists in the web design industry and why you can apply these tips without becoming a full-time professional.

If you’ve ever wondered what UX/UI designers actually do in web design, you’re not alone.

It’s one of those roles that can sound vague until you dig deeper. So, let’s look closer at the magic behind UX/UI design and how these skills bring websites to life.

What’s the difference between UX and UI?

First, let’s break it down.

UX (User Experience) focuses on how a website feels when someone uses it. It’s all about creating a smooth and intuitive experience, whether a user navigates a menu, completes a contact form, or searches for information. Great UX feels effortless—it removes the friction that makes visitors want to leave.

On the other hand, UI (User Interface) is about how the website looks. The visual layer includes colours, fonts, buttons, and layouts. Essentially, UI is the styling that brings the user experience framework to life.

Think of it like building a house. UX is the structure and layout of the rooms, while UI is the interior design that makes it all feel cohesive and welcoming.

How do UX and UI work together?

The magic happens when UX and UI combine seamlessly and integrate the user’s journey through the site, ensuring each step feels logical and purposeful. Meanwhile, the UI designer layers visuals that are appealing and guide the user’s actions.

Here are some of the questions UX/UI designers ask as they work:

Is the website easy to use, even for first-time visitors?
Are key actions, like buying a product or booking a service, simple and obvious?
Does the visual design highlight what’s important?

When done well, UX and UI work hand-in-hand to make both functional and beautiful websites.

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Why is UX/UI design important?

A poorly designed website frustrates users, and frustrated users don’t stick around. Whether you’re trying to build trust, generate leads, or drive sales, great UX/UI design is essential. It helps visitors achieve their goals quickly, which boosts their confidence in your brand.

It’s worth thinking of UX/UI design as an investment. A site that works for your users will work better for your business.

Tools of the trade

UX/UI designers use a variety of tools, including:

Figma and Adobe XD for wireframing and prototyping.
Squarespace for building simple, beautiful sites quickly.
And most importantly, user testing—because no design is perfect until it’s been put through its paces.

Testing is key. Designers don’t rely on guesses or assumptions. They gather feedback, tweak their designs, and refine them until everything works smoothly.

What can you take away from this?

Even if you’re not a professional designer, there are simple ways to apply UX/UI principles to your own website. If you’re using tools like Squarespace, these tips will help you improve your design:

Think like a visitor: What action do you want your users to take? If not, simplify.
Prioritize your content: Ensure the most important information is front and centre.
Keep it clean: Avoid clutter. Use plenty of white space to keep your site easy on the eyes.
Ask for feedback: Have someone unfamiliar with your site test it. Watch how they navigate and adjust based on their experience.

You don’t need a design degree to make these changes, but they can make a big difference.

Wrapping up

UX/UI design is part art, part science, and entirely focused on the user. When done well, it solves problems you didn’t even notice and makes navigating a website effortless. Whether starting or refining an existing design, taking inspiration from UX/UI principles can set your site apart.

Got any questions or tips about UX/UI design? I’d love to hear them—drop a comment below!

Cheers,
Elwyn