When I decided to pivot my career to UX design, I realized how many transferrable skills I had obtained from my past experiences. However, when I was brainstorming these transferrable skills, I was only considering those obtained from my work experiences. Recently, I had a bit of a lightbulb moment when I realized I had been practicing UX design in some shape or form since I was 8 years old! Let me explain.
As a dedicated pianist, I learned how to meet the needs of the stakeholders (music instructors, conductors, other musicians) and create an enjoyable experience for the end-user (performing for an audience).
As a musician, I consistently asked for feedback from my teachers, fellow musicians, and other listeners on my performance and then used that feedback to create the best musical experience that I could. This is very similar to gathering user insights from user research and testing methodologies to ensure your product is meeting the needs and goals of the end-user as well as the business.
As a musician, my goal comes in two forms.
Learning the technicality and musicianship necessary to accomplish a song in the way it should be performed.
Creating a lasting and enjoyable performance for the audience.
As a designer, my goals are the following:
Designing a product that includes accessibility, usability, and visual enhancement.
Creating a product that is easy-to-use and enjoyable for the user.
These goals for both professions are incredibly relatable. This is why I say that I have been practicing UX design since I was 8 years old! Who knew the empathetic mindset required in design and the ability to balance the needs and goals of stakeholders and users could be taught to a dedicated and passionate young musician.
I challenge you to think about your experience, hobbies, and passions and see how you can relate them to your design journey!
- Kaity
