This week, our lecture introduced our next project, the UX Trend Report, a shift from our previous work on creating our CV and portfolio websites. In this project, we’ll be exploring current trends across various industries, analysing how UX is evolving, and then developing our own report based on a chosen topic. While this task may seem more research and analysis-based and slightly less design-focused compared to our earlier projects, I think it will be incredibly valuable for developing a deeper understanding of UX principles. It will help strengthen my ability to identify, interpret, and apply design trends effectively in future projects.
Our first area of focus in this project was understanding what a trend actually is, particularly within the context of UX design. A trend can be defined as a pattern of change or development that reflects how user needs, technologies, and design practices evolve. In UX, trends often emerge from shifts in user behaviour, advancements in technology, or changing accessibility and design standards, all of which influence how we interact with digital products. By studying trends in the UX industry, we can identify what’s currently shaping user experiences, from visual aesthetics and interaction methods to inclusivity and emotional design. Understanding these patterns allows us as designers not only to follow but also to anticipate future directions, creating products that feel relevant and intuitive. Learning how to apply these trends thoughtfully helps ensure that our designs remain user-centred, engaging, and forward-thinking, rather than simply following what’s popular.
One of our first tasks to kick off the UX Trends project was a collaborative post-it note exercise suggested by Daniel. This activity encouraged everyone to write down different trends they felt were currently seen or emerging within the UX industry. Once we had our individual notes completed, we began to group and organise them collectively on a shared board, connecting similar ideas and forming larger categories of UX trends. I found this exercise really engaging and insightful, as it allowed me to see how others interpreted trends in design and what areas stood out to them. It also helped me broaden my own understanding by discovering patterns and ideas I hadn’t previously considered. Overall, it was a great starting point that helped spark inspiration and gave me a clearer sense of direction for the kinds of trends I might want to explore further in my own project.