As UX designers, we know our work goes far beyond just making things look pretty. We’re solving problems, making things easier for users, and ultimately trying to create experiences that people enjoy. But let’s be real — getting others to understand that can feel like an uphill battle sometimes. Whether it’s clients, stakeholders, or even team members, not everyone sees the full scope of what we do.
Over the years, I’ve run into a few common challenges that keep popping up in my work as a UX designer. These are the things that can slow down a project, cause frustration, or make me question whether anyone actually “gets” UX. But I’ve picked up some tricks along the way, and I want to share my personal tips on how to deal with them.
We’ve all been there: you’re eager to dive into research or usability testing, only to be met with resistance. Stakeholders might ask, “Can’t we skip that part?” It’s frustrating because, to us, this is essential — it’s the foundation of good design.
What’s worked for me is speaking their language. Show how skipping research affects the bottom line or how usability testing can prevent costly redesigns. I focus on outcomes — improved user satisfaction and fewer future headaches. For instance, in a past project, a usability test revealed a major flaw that saved us from a costly redesign. Sharing such stories can make a compelling case.
Collaboration with developers can be tricky. We want pixel-perfect designs, but they need something buildable within constraints. I’ve faced frustration when designs don’t translate well into the final product.
To tackle this, I focus on fostering a good relationship with the dev team from the start. Aligning on technical limitations and priorities early on helps. Compromise is key. It’s not about getting everything exactly as designed; it’s about creating a functional solution. Mutual respect and open communication go a long way in making the process smoother.
We all dread the moment when clients say, “I’ll know it when I see it.” Vague requirements can turn any project into a guessing game.
The solution? Overcommunication. Ask for specifics — what they like, what they don’t, and what their goals are. Using prototypes or sketches early on helps gather feedback and steer the conversation. The clearer the picture you paint, the better you can manage expectations and avoid endless revisions.
These are just a few of the hurdles I’ve faced in my UX design journey, and I’m sure many fellow designers can relate. Each challenge is an opportunity to grow, improve communication, and create better experiences — not just for users but for everyone involved in the project. Let’s continue to tackle these challenges and elevate our practice every day.