3 ways knowing the basics of programming makes me a better UX Architect
I love this clip from Code:Debugging the Gender Gap. Mo Fong of Google speaks about the need for children to learn the basics of programming so they’ll gain an awareness of how the technology their using works.
I’m with her! I also want my children to learn code so they aren’t only consumers. It can open a world of possibilities. I feel this sentiment is also true for UX professionals and visual designers working in the digital space.
There’s so many benefits to having a background in front-end web development and a high level understanding of software engineering in my role as an UX Architect.
3 ways knowing the basics of code has helped me:
- I’m able to create HTML, CSS and JS prototypes with a grid system like bootstrap or foundation instead of using prototyping software. This lets me test out and validate ideas quickly with a prototype that is much closer to what would be seen in the real world. Prototyping software is great, I use it on a daily basis, but it has it’s limitations. Sometimes having a higher-fidelity prototype is what’s needed.
- When designing user flows and UI layout configuration, I have an awareness of what would need to be done in the backend to make what I’m suggesting happen. To a degree, I know if I’m asking for something complicated or if it wouldn’t be as intensive. I’m able to spot the areas that I might need to flag as something complex for the development team so I can bring it up to them and get their opinion.
- I understand what the development team is saying to me when they talk about web components, preprocessors, loading for the database asynchronously, working with APIs, A11y, site performance and load times. If a developer brings up a thing I don’t understand, I’ll research and learn about it. Even though it’s not my main area of focus, it’s a part of the experience so I should have an understanding of it.
There are many ways to get started learning the basics such as free online resources. Depending on where you live, your library may also offer free memberships to services like Lynda.com. Check with your librarian if they do, if they don’t asking might help spark the idea to bring it to your branch! For those living in London, Ontario the London Public Library provides this service.
To circle back to the video from the start of this post, I’m happy to announce to those in the area, that Ladies that UX(LTUX), Ladies Learning Code(LLC) in partnership with the London Public Library are bringing this award-winning documentary Code:Debugging the Gender Gap to London, Ontario. There will be a panel discussion to follow.
MEGA meet up
LTUX and LLC are hosting a Mega meet up before the screening. Sign up here and get all the details. Hope to see you there!
