#bidlan

Last Tuesday Girl Develop It and Ladies that UX Durham jointly hosted a fantastic UX Career Panel. Industry professionals, novices and those of us who are intrigued, yet a little intimidated by the world of UX enjoyed an informative discussion led by four very knowledgeable women who are presently doing very exciting work in the in UX space.

The discussion began with each lady introducing herself, explaining her role as a UX professional in her company, how she got there, and what her typical workday looks like.

It was interesting to note that each of these women followed a unique path to their present careers. Susan Tacker started off in journalism and worked as a technical writer for more than a decade before she moved into the UX world. Rachel Daniel and Heather Young both spent time as visual designers. And Wren Lanier is a self-taught web designer. What was evident in all these ladies is their passion for creating better products through the integration of user-centered design. As Tacker stated, “We make a difference…it’s not user centered design if you’re not talking to users”.

The panel answered audience questions ranging from, agile usability testing, A/B testing and the lean UX process, to figuring out who your usability stakeholders are, what project managers can do to better facilitate the UX testing process and how someone who is interested in a career in UX can get started.

Daniel and Lanier both suggested a proactive and hands-on approach for those who are new to UX. That includes learning about the various disciplines (interaction design, content strategy, information architecture, etc) within UX, understanding how they work together, deciding which role is best for you “what floats your boat” as Daniel put it, and formulating your own UX process.

Lanier suggested participating in a startup weekend. The benefits of which include working on a project that involves real world challenges you can add to your portfolio and showcase to prospective employers.

Young encouraged the audience to follow the thought leaders in the industry via blogs, twitter and other social media platforms.

The panel also lent their insights into the challenges women in technology face. The overriding consensus was, women in technology and especially those in a disruptive field like UX have to learn to find their voice and define who they personally and professionally. Sometimes that means realizing that you have a voice and you can speak up when you feel it is necessary. Daniel even left a company, in part, because the cultural fit just wasn’t there.

Friction is inevitable. But, if you know who you are and understand your process you will be better equipped to, according to Young, “articulate your ideas in a meaningful way…and gain the following and respect of your peers.”

Tacker advised the audience to find other women in their field who can be of support and encouragement. Organizations like Girl Develop It and Ladies that UX are doing a great job in this area.

Finally, the panel commented on their thoughts about the future of UX. Put simply, as companies realize the value of user centered design, UX will continue to branch out into every part of an organization.

Did you know that 99% of all businesses in the United States are small businesses? Among them, about 26 million are considered micro businesses, firms with five or fewer employees. Between 2004 and 2010, these businesses created a net of more than 5 million jobs. During the same time period, large companies, firms with 500 or more employees, shed more than 1 million jobs. Micro businesses alone contribute over $1 trillion to the U.S. economy annually.

Put simply, small businesses are the backbone of America’s economy.

Not only that, small businesses help build better communities. The revenue that these businesses generate is funneled directly into the neighborhoods they serve. More than just a side endeavor, 74% of their owners report micro businesses to be their sole source of income. Small businesses often hire other small businesses as providers of goods and services. And small businesses tend to pay higher wages than their larger counterparts.

These business owners usually live and work in the communities they serve. This means that they pay taxes to their local government, which funds public services like schools and hospitals. And they are more likely to hire members of these same communities.

Every day, small businesses help close the income inequality gap.

According to Cheryl Salley, business development manager for Columbia, SC’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), small businesses “are crucial to our local communities…and economy. They stimulate job growth, leading to a better overall quality of life.”

Yet, in spite all that these businesses contribute to our local economies and the nation as a whole, they often have a difficult time obtaining the capital, exposure, and other resources they need to grow. Organizations like the SBDC are doing their part by creating access to funds, training and connections. But, we as consumers also have the power to help. As Mrs. Salley puts it, we need to “make a conscious effort to support our local businesses”.

So, this season, as you shop for your friends and loved ones, don’t forget about your local small businesses. They need and deserve our support.

How can you do it?

Start with who you know; your fabulous hair stylist, go-to mechanic, trusty handyman or independent pest control guy. Think about it, everybody eventually needs an oil change, a fresh hair-do, or repairs around the house. Ask these service providers if they offer gift cards or certificates for their business. If they do, purchase some as alternatives to the gifts you would have bought in a big-box store. If they don’t, why not suggest that they look into offering these kinds of client incentives? They would be marketing their business and guaranteeing a customer at the same time.

Or you could Google artists, artisans, clothing shops and designers, or other creative businesses in your local area. You could commission a unique painting, ornamental artwork, or clothing item.

Then, there’s always the old fashioned way. Simply walk into a local store and look around. You’re bound to find something worth purchasing. Goods produced locally are often of higher quality than mass produced items.

And Let us not forget local farmers markets, craft markets, art fairs and antique shops.