What to do
Conducting user research
The initial stage in the UX design process is where the research (magic) happens. Generally, a UX designer will get a brief from the client or their manager asking them to do some project research.
User personas
Based on extensive user research, UX designers might then create user personas. This is where you delve deeper into what tasks each persona wants to perform and why. Personas are key in the process.
Information architecture
Next, you’ll start thinking about the kind of content needed and how it will be structured across the website or app. This is what’s known as information architecture; working out the most logical layout and organization of the content.
User flows and wireframes
UX designers use a range of tools to map out the user’s journey through a product, including user flows and wireframes.
User flows are basic flowcharts which visualize the complete path a user takes when using a product, from entry point right through to the final interaction.
Prototyping and user testing
A prototype is simply a scaled-down version of your product; a simulation that enables you to test your designs before they get developed. Prototypes range from the simplest of paper models to the more realistic, high-fidelity interactive prototypes which closely mimic the final product.
Testing your prototypes on real users helps to highlight any design flaws before you create the final product. Several rounds of testing could take place before the design is completely right.
Once you know the design is actually meeting users’ needs, the new product is finally ready to go into development.
Visual design
So, the final imagery, color schemes, icons, and typography.