Why I’m grateful to be a UX designer during Coronavirus season
I have never felt more validated in my decision to take this career path than in these past few months as the Coronavirus pandemic has taken over.
As the weeks of the federal stay-at-home order in the United States drag on, more and more of my friends and loved ones are losing their jobs. At first it was the friends that worked in fields like hospitality and tourism. But as the economy buckles under the lack of money spent on anything other than toilet paper and canned beans, I’m seeing many of even my most successful friends endure pay cuts and even complete layoffs.
I’ve been incredibly lucky to work where I do. As a UX designer working for the government, my job isn’t hanging by a thread. I’m able to collaborate with my coworkers via Slack messages and Zoom calls. I can conduct usability tests by sending links to Invision prototypes, and get feedback from stakeholders over email.
My team has transitioned easily into a virtual environment, save for the occasional barking dog or babbling baby during video calls. We’re able to keep creating and testing beautiful products, practically uninterrupted.