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An interface designer typically works to create interfaces, usually a user interface (UI), for various software programs and Internet sites. This involves understanding different aspects of human behavior, usability, and the ways people tend to view and interact with technology. The designer typically starts with a general concept or design of how an interface should look and function, and then works on developing and creating the interface, either alone or with a team of other UI developers. An interface designer will also often work with others to test an interface during development to ensure proper usability.
The various tasks and duties of an interface designer revolve around the design and development of a user interface for a program or web page. The user interface of a software or website is the way users of that program or visitors to a website interact with and use that software, and this usually involves a graphical user interface (GUI). A UI designer starts with a concept for the UI or GUI, often roughly created on paper or using graphics software to create a mockup on a computer. It is then presented to a client and work is done to create a concept that meets the needs and wants of a software developer or website owner.
Once an idea is approved, the interface designer will typically work alone or with a team to fully develop and update the interface. This usually involves multiple iterations of a concept, often trying out different colors and layouts to find the optimal design for the interface. Many UI designers will also work with various testing methods, including paper prototypes and alpha and beta testing to ensure a user-friendly final product. When this is done as part of a team, a UI designer can also work as a team manager and oversee tasks completed by other team members.
An interface designer may work with a client over the course of a project, receiving feedback and changing the interface as needed, to produce a final product that meets the client’s needs and preferences. This whole process can also vary depending on the work done before hiring an interface designer. If an older interface is being revamped, for example, the designer will typically work with the original interface when creating the final product. A completely new interface will often have different requirements than adding to an older design, although the general process is similar.