UX Web Design: Build User-Centric Websites from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to User Experience (UX)

In this comprehensive module, students will explore the essential principles that highlight the importance of User Experience (UX). Through dynamic discussions and practical examples, participants will not only understand the core of UX but also learn to express its critical role in developing innovative designs. This module goes beyond theoretical knowledge, enabling students to apply key UX principles, such as Miller's Law, Jakob's Law, Von Restorff Effect, and more. By the conclusion of this module, students will have a solid understanding of UX's theoretical underpinnings within the digital environment.

Unlocking UX: Strategy, Use Cases, Logo Design

In this module, you'll learn how to align product objectives with user needs, creating not just effective but enjoyable experiences. We'll dive into the art of visual design, examining various logo types, from the simple beauty of Letter Marks to the detailed complexity of Combination Marks, enhancing your understanding of brand identity. Additionally, you'll gain skills in developing comprehensive use cases, which include both broad overviews and in-depth analyses, to fully grasp user interactions. By the end of this module, you'll become adept in logo design nuances and skilled in crafting user-focused use cases.

Introduction to User Research

In this module, you will begin a comprehensive exploration to master the art and science of user research. You will learn to distinguish between qualitative and quantitative research techniques through an in-depth examination of methodological nuances, equipping yourself with a broad range of tools to uncover valuable insights. You will learn how to become proficient in conducting user interviews and designing questions that reveal user needs, motivations, and pain points. Additionally, you will explore the strategic process of persona differentiation, learning how to create vivid user personas that enhance the design process. As a concluding highlight, the module clarifies the challenge of shopping cart abandonment, providing practical strategies to minimize it when developing engaging apps and websites.

Scoping and Balsamiq: Intro to Wireframing

In this module, you will navigate the foundational elements of UX design, focusing on the art of defining the project scope to ensure a clear vision and purpose. You will explore the Scope Plane, a fundamental aspect of the UX design process, which offers a structured method to clarify and refine project goals. This module teaches you how to transform those ideas into low-fidelity blueprints. Through interactive activities and guided lab sessions, you will become proficient in creating clear, functional wireframes with industry-standard tools like Balsamiq. You'll engage in the process of sketching, iterating, and testing your wireframes, thereby gaining valuable hands-on experience. By the end of this module, participants will not only possess the skills to effectively define project scopes but will also be prepared to turn their design concepts into reality with precision and clarity.

Conclusion

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches human-centered design concepts, a foundational skill in UX

Provides practical experience in designing wireframes and prototypes using industry-standard software

Incorporates both theory and practice throughout the course, providing learners with a well-rounded understanding of UX design

Presents a comprehensive overview of UX design, from foundational principles to advanced concepts

Introduces learners to user research methods, enabling them to gather valuable insights for designing user-centered experiences

Requires access to software tools like Balsamiq for hands-on exercises

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in UX Web Design: Build User-Centric Websites with these activities:

Review Fundamental UX Principles

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Strengthen your UX foundation by reviewing fundamental principles, ensuring a solid understanding of the concepts that underpin user experience design.

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Revisit key concepts such as user-centered design and usability.
Review the elements of visual hierarchy, typography, and color theory.
Explore case studies and examples of well-designed user experiences.
Consider how these principles apply to your own projects.

Exercise User Empathy Through Design Exercises

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Develop your empathy for users by engaging in design exercises, enabling you to better understand their needs and perspectives.

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Participate in empathy mapping exercises.
Conduct user interviews and shadowing sessions.
Analyze data from usability testing and user research.
Apply your learnings to refine your UX designs.

Connect with UX Mentors

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Elevate your learning journey by connecting with UX mentors, gaining valuable insights and personalized guidance from experienced professionals.

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Identify potential UX mentors through professional networks and platforms.
Reach out to prospective mentors and express your interest in learning.
Establish clear goals and expectations for the mentorship relationship.

Five other activities

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Explore UX Methodologies through Online Tutorials

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Expand your knowledge and skills by exploring UX methodologies through online tutorials, enhancing your ability to apply these techniques in practical scenarios.

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Identify reputable platforms offering curated UX tutorials.
Focus on tutorials aligned with specific UX design challenges.
Actively engage with the tutorials, taking notes and practicing examples.
Apply the learned methodologies to your own UX projects.

Attend UX Workshops and Seminars

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Gain exposure to industry best practices and emerging trends by attending UX workshops and seminars, enhancing your knowledge and skills.

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Identify relevant UX workshops and seminars.
Attend workshops aligned with specific UX topics or challenges.
Actively participate and engage with workshop facilitators and attendees.
Apply the learnings from workshops to your UX projects.

Develop a Comprehensive UX Wireframe

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Empower yourself by developing a comprehensive UX wireframe, solidifying your understanding of the UX design process and usability principles.

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Define clear design objectives and user goals.
Analyze user flow and information architecture.
Create low-fidelity sketches to visualize the layout.
Refine and iterate designs using industry-standard tools like Balsamiq.
Present and discuss your wireframe with peers for feedback.

Engage in Peer Review and Critique

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Enhance your learning by engaging in peer review and critique, fostering a collaborative environment and refining your UX designs through constructive feedback.

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Join or form a peer review group.
Present your UX designs for feedback and insights.
Provide constructive criticism and feedback to peers.
Incorporate feedback to improve your designs and broaden your perspectives.

Design and Prototype a User Experience

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Solidify your knowledge by designing and prototyping a user experience, demonstrating your comprehension of UX principles and ability to create user-centric solutions.

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Identify a user problem or opportunity.
Conduct user research and gather insights.
Develop and refine your UX design solution.
Create a prototype to demonstrate the functionality and user flow.
Test and iterate your prototype based on user feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete UX Web Design: Build User-Centric Websites will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Web Designer

Web Designers are in charge of conceiving, planning, and implementing the visual and functional elements of a website. The course will equip you with principles like Miller's Law when designing a website so that it is intuitive and effectively conveys information. You will also be able to create wireframes and prototypes that are highly functional.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Designer

UX Designer

UX Designers enhance the user experience of a website by ensuring that the interface is user-friendly, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. This course will equip you with the essential UX principles, such as Jakob's Law and the Von Restorff Effect, providing you with a solid foundation for creating exceptional user experiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer

UI Designer

UI Designers focus on the visual elements of a website, ensuring that it is aesthetically pleasing and visually engaging. This course will teach you how to implement visual design principles through activities and lab sessions, providing you with hands-on experience in creating visually appealing designs.

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Web Developer

Web Developers are responsible for building and maintaining the technical aspects of a website. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in UX principles, enabling you to effectively communicate with UX designers and ensure that the website meets both user and technical requirements.

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Front-End Developer

Front-End Developers focus on the user-facing elements of a website, including the layout, design, and functionality. This course will teach you how to create wireframes and prototypes using industry-standard tools like Balsamiq, providing you with valuable experience in designing and implementing user interfaces.

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Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for overseeing the development and launch of a product, including defining the product vision, roadmap, and marketing strategy. This course will help you understand the importance of aligning product objectives with user needs, ensuring that the product meets the expectations of the target audience.

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UX Researcher

UX Researchers conduct research to understand user needs, behaviors, and motivations. This course will provide you with a comprehensive exploration of user research techniques, enabling you to effectively gather and analyze user data to improve the user experience of a website.

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Information Architect

Information Architects design and organize the content and structure of a website to ensure that it is easy to find and navigate. This course will teach you how to create comprehensive use cases and develop personas, enabling you to effectively understand and meet the needs of different user groups.

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Content Strategist

Content Strategists develop and manage the content of a website, ensuring that it is clear, concise, and engaging. This course will provide you with a solid understanding of UX principles and user research techniques, enabling you to create content that meets the needs and expectations of users.

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Digital Marketing Manager

Digital Marketing Managers plan and execute digital marketing campaigns to promote a website or product. This course will help you understand the importance of user experience in digital marketing, enabling you to effectively target and engage your audience.

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E-commerce Manager

E-commerce Managers oversee the development and management of an online store. This course will provide you with a solid understanding of UX principles and user research techniques, enabling you to create an online shopping experience that is both user-friendly and profitable.

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Customer Experience Manager

Customer Experience Managers are responsible for managing the customer experience across all touchpoints. This course will help you understand the importance of user experience in customer satisfaction, enabling you to develop and implement strategies that enhance the overall customer experience.

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Graphic designer

Graphic Designers create visual content, such as logos, brochures, and websites. This course will teach you the principles of visual design and provide you with hands-on experience in creating design concepts, enabling you to effectively contribute to the visual appeal of a website.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation, such as user manuals and help guides. This course will provide you with a solid understanding of UX principles and user research techniques, enabling you to create documentation that is clear, concise, and user-friendly.

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Instructional Designer

Instructional Designers create and develop educational materials, such as online courses and training programs. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in UX principles and user research techniques, enabling you to create learning experiences that are engaging and effective.

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