UI/UX Articles and Interesting Tidbits of the Week
April//28//2023
Here are some interesting finds on UI/UX of the week!
1.
AI and Verification Processes. Really interesting case study of how the application Tinder, is leveraging AI to build a more robust process of user verification. The article from Sarah Perez describes how the AI engine couples with the previously existing photos of the user, leveraging the video capture in the process which is then matched with a 3D mapping to make sure the user is who he or she says they actually are. Interestingly enough, this is also a way to capture the veracity of images that can also be generated by AI. It’s an interesting approach to this problem, and hints and how AI can simplify certain processes in product experiences. Highlight of the article includes:
“However, it explains that the new model will first require the user to complete a series of video prompts, which the AI then uses to match that the person in the video also matches the person in the profile photo the user wants to verify. The integration works by matching a 3D mapping of someone’s likeness (their facial geometry) to their still photo. As the updates roll out, starting on Wednesday, users who aim to be Photo Verified or who want to maintain their existing verification will have to take a video selfie. The feature will fully replace the prior option to upload photos.”
2.
Design Ops. Though this article is dated from 2021, it’s well worth revisiting since it gives a great view into what Design Ops actually are and how they can impact different groups within an organization. The article written by Eliza Martin captures and synthesizes different sources who have documented this topic thoroughly, including the Nielsen Norman Group (they’re quoted with their definition and approach summarized in the questions: How We Work Together/How We Get Work Done/How Our Work Creates Impact), and also the work of Dave Malouf and Meredith Black who are quoted throughout the article. The article also sheds light on the evolution of the perception of Design Ops itself. It’s well worth reading through. Highlight of the article includes:
“DesignOps is the umbrella term for creating effective workflows that help teams build digital products. It’s the operational management of designers and the optimization of design processes in order to maximize the value of design.
Usually, the organizations that implement DesignOps are large tech companies, but they don’t have to be. DesignOps is loosely based on the successful model of DevOps — the agile, iterative practice that combines software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) to enable continuous product deployment.”
3.
Job Negotiations and Remote Positions. This article from Sarah Geraghty for The Next Web is an interesting view on where we collectively currently stand in the job market, and simultaneously a harsh realization of how rapidly the world has changed. Only last year remote positions were a highlight, and a way for Organizations to get access to more talent, and in the process bring more inclusivity to teams. With the mandates to get back into the office, there’s been an attempt to turn the clock backwards (which truth be told, can never really be done because people have changed as a result of a world that has changed), but the author provides some interesting suggestions on how to negotiate and eventually procure for an aspect of remoteness on a job/position that is being pursued. Worth reading through and reflecting upon. Highlight of the article includes:
“Don’t turn down an attractive role if you’re not allowed to work remotely at first; instead plan to build up trust and a track record of achievement that can then be used in six months as the basis of seeking what you want. If this is agreed, get it in writing. WFH or remote working can mean anything from never turning up at the office, to being at Zalando with the option — in some cases — to work from abroad up to 30 working days a year. It could mean a company like Bolt supporting your relocation to Estonia. Or Immersive Labs’ offering might appeal with flexible start and finish times and job share options. It depends on the role and the nature of the work required which will in turn inform the company’s working patterns.”
