“How is AI Transforming the UI/UX Process?"—an opinion article by DXspark Sofia UX/UI Designer, Sofia Nobrega—was originally published on Sapo TeK. Read it below.
The evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly reshaped various sectors, and interface design is no exception. While there are contrasting opinions on the role AI will play in the future of design, it’s clear that this technology brings both challenges and opportunities for us, as designers. The key lies in how AI will be harnessed to enhance, rather than replace, the creative process.
One perspective gaining traction is that while AI may not fully replace designers, those who use AI tools will hold a competitive edge over those who don’t. AI is increasingly proficient at automating certain design aspects, such as creating layouts, color schemes, and even basic website structures. However, many elements of design extend beyond mere visual aesthetics—elements that AI alone cannot fully comprehend or execute.
Like all creative processes, UX/UI design inherently requires a deep understanding of user needs, interpreting client goals, and making informed decisions based on context, trends, and human psychology. Powerful as it may be, AI lacks the capacity for true innovation; it operates through analyzing existing data and replicating patterns found in popular internet designs. While this tool can save designers time, it cannot substitute for the decision-making process and the nuanced touch that define high-quality design work.
I recently read a post on Reddit on this topic, comparing AI to PowerPoint, which has been around since 1987. Despite countless templates, fonts, and tools available in PowerPoint, companies still rely on designers and agencies to create customized presentations and infographics. This example underscores a broader point: while AI can streamline certain aspects of the design process, the demand for skilled designers remains high. Tools can help, but they do not replace the need for creativity, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of user experience (UX).
Additionally, the belief that AI tools could eventually eliminate the need for web designers—much like SquareSpace, which promised easy website creation for non-designers—has proven inaccurate. The continued demand for web design services highlights the complexity of design as a discipline and the value that experienced designers bring to the table.
Even Figma, a widely used platform among designers, began introducing AI features this year to accelerate idea development. Considering that its user base is primarily designers, the company certainly wouldn’t have implemented this feature if it believed it would alienate most of its audience.
In conclusion, AI offers significant benefits to user interface (UI) design, automating repetitive tasks, increasing efficiency, and providing a wide array of design options. However, it’s essential to recognize that AI is a tool—a powerful one, yet still a tool. The true value of design comes from human creativity, insight, and the ability to understand and respond to the unique needs of each project. Designers who embrace AI will have more options to navigate the evolving design landscape, but creativity will never be fully automated.