in the evolving landscape of digital design, the lines between ui/ux designers and product designers often blur. while both roles focus on creating user-centric solutions, their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

ui/ux designers: crafting experiences

ui/ux designers primarily focus on:

• user interface aesthetics and interactions
• user research and usability testing
• wireframing and prototyping
• visual design systems

product designers: strategic problem-solving

product designers encompass a broader scope:

• business strategy alignment
• product vision and roadmap
• cross-functional collaboration
• metrics and success measurement
• end-to-end product lifecycle

key differences

the main distinction lies in the scope of responsibility. while ui/ux designers excel in crafting specific interactions and interfaces, product designers take a more holistic approach, considering business goals, technical constraints, and market dynamics.

when to hire which?

• choose a ui/ux designer when focusing on specific user interfaces or experiences
• opt for a product designer when building products from scratch or leading strategic initiatives
• consider both for larger teams where specialized roles can complement each other

originally published in the startup on medium