My Journey TO Mastering User Experience Engineering (UXE).

https://www.figma.com/design/Zgm1PcFwQTBnvOGNYCrdil/HNG-TASK1?node-id=51-265&t=AMIishNOwcDzBnis-1

Entering the tech industry in 2023 has been one of my best decisions. My basic knowledge of HTML and CSS sparked an interest in creating outstanding user-centric products. Earlier this year, I came across a post by Joseph Brendan on X, discussing the role of a User Experience Engineer in building user-focused products, and I realized that this was the career for me.

My Two Years Design Career Plan

Year 1

• Quarter 1 (Q1):

  • Market Research: Conduct user surveys, focus groups, and competitive analysis.

  • User Persona Creation: Develop detailed user personas based on research findings.

  • Initial Ideation: Brainstorm and sketch initial concepts and design ideas.

• Quarter 2 (Q2):

  • Concept Development: Refine initial ideas into more concrete design concepts.

  • Low-Fidelity Prototyping: Create wireframes and low-fidelity prototypes using Figma.

  • Stakeholder Review: Present concepts and prototypes to stakeholders for feedback.

• Quarter 3 (Q3):

  • High-Fidelity Prototyping: Develop high-fidelity prototypes incorporating stakeholder feedback.

  • User Testing: Conduct usability testing sessions to gather user feedback on prototypes.

  • Iterate Designs: Make iterative improvements based on user feedback.

• Quarter 4 (Q4):

  • Finalizing Design Specs: Finalize design specifications and prepare detailed design documentation.

  • Development Handoff Preparation: Work on design handoff documents and assets for the development team.

  • Stakeholder Sign-off: Obtain final approval from stakeholders on the designs.

Year 2

• Quarter 1 (Q1):

  • Handoff to Development: Collaborate closely with developers to ensure smooth implementation of designs.

  • Design Support: Provide ongoing support to the development team, addressing any design-related issues.

  • Internal Testing: Conduct internal testing to ensure design accuracy and functionality.

• Quarter 2 (Q2):

  • Beta Testing: Launch beta versions of the product to a limited user base for real-world feedback.

  • Feedback Integration: Gather and analyze beta testing feedback, making necessary design adjustments.

  • Final Tweaks: Implement final design tweaks based on beta feedback.

• Quarter 3 (Q3):

  • Product Launch Preparation: Work with marketing and other teams to prepare for product launch, creating promotional materials and ensuring design consistency.

  • Final Product Adjustments: Address any last-minute changes or issues before the launch.

  • Documentation: Ensure all design documentation is up-to-date and accessible.

• Quarter 4 (Q4):

  • Product Launch: Officially launch the product, ensuring all design elements are in place.

  • Post-Launch Monitoring: Monitor user feedback and product performance post-launch.

  • Post-Launch Analysis: Conduct a thorough analysis of the product’s performance, identifying areas for future improvement.

  • Planning for Future Enhancements: Begin planning the next cycle of design improvements and enhancements based on post-launch feedback.

How HNG Tech Will Help My Career?

This month, I received an email from HNG Tech (as I had signed up for their news letter earlier), a leading tech company in Nigeria renowned for training and mentoring interns into world-class tech professionals who have become industry leaders. After reading several articles about HNG Tech blog and its influence on the Nigerian tech landscape, I eagerly enrolled in the 11th edition of their internship program.

My Goals With HNG Tech

As an intermediate User Experience Designer with limited skills, I joined the HNG internship program to enhance my abilities in User Experience Research, learn to design intuitive User Interfaces that solve real user problems, gain expertise in Frontend Development, learn from their experienced mentors and build strong connections with other interns from various fields. I also aim to collaborate on real-life projects with interns from Marketing, Frontend Development, Backend Development, Product Management, Data Analysis, Mobile Development and other relevant fields. Additionally, I hope to access seasoned mentors for guidance on becoming a successful User Experience Engineer and excel in the HNG11 Internship program.

To succeed in the HNG11 Internship, I realized I will need:

1. An open and positive mindset, as the HNG program emphasizes student-centered learning.

2. A constant power supply and a high speed internet access to keep up with the program.

3. Plenty of garri, groundnuts, and sugar for energy.

4. Friendships with other interns to brainstorm and share ideas.

Conclusion

The opportunity to join HNG Tech's internship program is a significant milestone in my career journey as a User Experience Designer. By participating in the HNG11 Internship, I am confident that I will enhance my skills in User Experience Research, design intuitive and user-centric interfaces, and gain valuable expertise in Frontend Development. The program’s structure, which emphasizes collaboration and mentorship, will allow me to work on real-life projects with peers from various fields, fostering a holistic learning experience.

The guidance from seasoned mentors and the chance to build a strong professional network are invaluable aspects that will contribute to my growth and success as a User Experience Engineer. With the right mindset, reliable resources, and a supportive community, I am ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. I am excited about this journey with HNG Tech and look forward to becoming a part of the next generation of industry leaders.