UI/UX Articles and Interesting Tidbits of the Week

June//14//2019

Here are some interesting finds on UI/UX of the week!

1.https://www.fastcompany.com/90362225/the-latest-leap-forward-in-visual-ai-is-downright-mesmerizing
Visual AI. An interesting case study hailing from The Fast Company, focused on an application named Photo Wake Up. It’s an algorithm that enhances the experience surrounding static images, allowing for this augmented reality experience, to become multi-dimensional. Really compelling case study and potential that comes from this concept. Highlight of the article includes:

“The researchers will present their algorithm later this month at the Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition in Long Beach, California, but the software begins by analyzing a still image to detect a human form and fits a morphable body on it. From there it creates a body map, labeling each of the parts. Once the map is done, the software uses it to construct the three-dimensional mesh of the character, estimating the weight of their body so it can later apply realistic motion. Finally, it takes the original image and uses it to build a texture around the 3D body. The final step is to reconstruct the background that is occluded by the person’s form so they don’t leave a white hole behind.”

2.https://blog.dropbox.com/topics/product-tips/new-dropbox
DropBox, New Features & Showcase. Not something I usually highlight, but Dropbox has managed to build a product that is efficient and impeccable in execution. The product further refines and establishes their brand, while with a succinct and specific UI Copy, informs the users of their features, updates and how the product is pairing/connecting with other applications. It’s a lesson on effective branding, product design and feature communication. Highlight of the article includes:

“It isn’t just about content and tools. The heart of all that work is the people making it happen, so we’ve also built new features to help your team stay in sync. We’ve transformed shared folders into rich workspaces where teams can: Get coordinated by adding descriptions to folders to help the team understand more about the work they’re doing. Key content can be highlighted by pinning it to the top of a workspace, and you can even @mention people and assign to-dos so everyone knows what happens next.”

3.https://www.fastcompany.com/90364553/5-things-that-resilient-teams-do-differently?
Resilient Teams. Another interesting article from The Fast Company, this one focused on Teams. The Design Thinking experience and methodology is anchored on effective teamwork, and this article sheds important light on what truly defines a good team. From aspects such as motivation, to participative approaches, it’s an article that illustrates how dynamic teams truly impact the success of an organization and of the individuals who comprise these groupings. Highlight of the article includes:

“It’s crucial for teams to identify areas where they are struggling, but it’s also important to identify (and celebrate) their strengths on an ongoing basis. Teams who are spread around the globe, for example, need a strong “why” to stay motivated. They need to discuss what matters most to them, what they want the team to look like, and what changes they are willing to make to achieve this vision. Participative team leaders involve team members before they introduce an initiative, so that team members understand the purpose of the work.”