Design Gist

We had big plans to break down analysis paralysis from the Laws of UX deck, but Enny's mic had other ideas. What you're getting instead: our intro (which slaps), and a social media listening session where we gist about Google Stitch's new features, Anthropic's survey about what people actually want from AI, and a spicy take about discovery on the internet being dead (due to hyperpersonalisation).

We're looking at AI-assisted design today. We talked about how the 'designer' title has evolved and how to design with AI without losing your creative voice. Plus, we're breaking down the brand designer vs. product designer debate that blew up on Naija design Twitter few weeks ago. We're also giving you a free design system template to start designing with AI today.👍 Product Thumbs Up:Dayo Cyrus on Instagram@wearegst and their influence on graphic designers making infographics relating to Nigerian corruption👎 Product Thumbs Down:Microsoft Excel redesigniOS Photos collectionApple Magic mouse (yes, still)The Evolution of Design ToolsMini history lesson: how the term "designer" came to beHow fast new tools are being shipped right nowTools We're Watching:Claude CodeFigma's Vectorise toolRemotionChatGPT's Atlas2026 Design Process & Toolkit with AIHow it differs from the traditional design processWorking with AI on side projects vs. in big teamsThe hidden costs and trade-offs nobody talks aboutBypassing developers: building real apps, not just prototypesWhy you need to pass your design philosophy to AI before anything elseIs AI-Assisted Design Anti-Creative?We tackle this question head-on with personal experiences and honest takes.Brand Designers vs. Product DesignersWe break down the debate that took over Naija design Twitter a few weeks ago. Hot takes included.🎁 Free Template: Design Philosophy for AI ToolsWe're sharing our framework for feeding your design philosophy to AI so you can actually build things that match your vision. Download it here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uCvDScQATh6JAFtBWgYD-Z3Z51HI2BK_2rAelzamusM/edit?usp=sharingFollow us on Instagram: @designgistpod© 2026 Design Gist Podcast

In what is actually the 31st episode of the Design Gist podcast, we yap about the user experience and customer experience of flying, particularly with Air Peace, a Nigerian airline. We discuss the various phases of air travel, from pre-booking to post-flight, highlighting the importance of design in each of those stages. And the conversation opens up the frustrations and challenges faced by travellers, especially when dealing with third-party booking sites like Trip.com, which can complicate the experience due to misinformation. We share personal anecdotes about our travel experiences, emphasising the need for better communication and user-centred design in the airline industry. We recounted a series of frustrating events, including a lack of clear signage at inaccessible airports, the chaotic atmosphere during baggage claim, unending in-flight delays....Chapters(00:00) Intro(02:19) Discussing User Experience in Air Travel(14:34) Exploring the Phases of Air Travel(20:18) The Importance of Design in Travel(24:07) Traveling Troubles: A Personal Experience(25:39) How important is Information in Air Travel(30:37) Misinformation from Online Travel Agencies(36:00) The Importance of Transparency in Booking(48:15) Dark UX Patterns in the Travel Industry(51:02) Frustrations with Ticketing and Travel Apps(54:16) Navigating Airport Signage and Wayfinding(01:01:08) Cultural Differences in Customer Service(01:12:45) In-Flight Experiences and Service Quality(01:13:53) Understanding Customer Service Expectations(01:17:05) Anecdotes from the Airline Experience(01:20:05) Critique of Air Peace and Service Failures(01:29:59) The Need for Design Overhaul in Nigerian Air Travel(01:37:51) Innovations in Travel Tech(01:39:10) Customer Experience in Nigeria(01:40:33) Social media gist01:55:00) In closing

Quick heads up: we had some audio gremlins in this one (ironic for our first episode of the year, we know!). The content's solid though, so stick with us. Better sound coming in the next ep!

This episode explores the Law of Uniform Connectedness, a UX principle where elements that share a visual treatment (such as the same background color, border, or container) are perceived as related, even when separated by distance.

In This EpisodePart of our ongoing series testing whether AI can actually handle UX jobs.Why Writesonic and Copy.ai didn't make the cutWhat makes Frontitude stand out for UX writingThe real limitations we found even in the best toolsOur honest take on the future of UX writing as a specialtyWe're back with our AI tools testing series! After hitting some technical snags with the first one - UX research episode - we jumped straight into testing AI tools for UX writing, and the results were eye-opening.What We TestedWe started with 4 tools—Claude, Writesonic, Frontitude, and Copy.ai—but quickly narrowed it down when two proved unusable for serious UX writing work.The VerdictThe Frontitude plugin came out on top for UX writing tasks, showing real promise for the field. But here's the catch: even the best tool still needs human oversight and fine-tuning. The Big QuestionsWhere does UX writing actually belong: product teams or marketing?What's the career risk of being "just a UX writer" as AI capabilities grow?Are we looking at augmentation or replacement?Chapters(00:00) Intro and catch-up(07:38) Product thumbs up/down(24:59) Onboarding the 4 AI tools (40:51) Understanding marketing and UX writing(42:08) Copy.ai's confusing onboarding flow(50:05) Testing error scenarios with Claude(1:00:41) Testing error scenarios with Frontitude(1:07:12) Comparing both on the error scenario(1:12:41) Testing navigation labels with Claude (1:15:35) Why AI cannot replace human designers just yet(1:20:43) Testing navigation labels with Frontitude (1:23:00) Comparing both on the navigation label scenario (1:24:17) Ranking the AI tools for UX writing(1:27:00) The role of UX writers in the industry(1:30:34) Adapting to AI as a UX Writer (1:36:36) The future

In this episode, we unpack our experience at Talk UX 2025. We spotlighted the talks and workshop sessions that impacted us, plus our favourite little things from both days.This links to a Notion page with some references from this episode.

Enny and Elsy demystify Agile methodologies, covering Scrum, sprint planning, user stories, and product owner roles. They share real experiences implementing Agile in different contexts, including challenges with hierarchy, remote work, and interpersonal dynamics. Practical insights for anyone working in or curious about product teams.Chapters(00:00) Intro and Icebreakers(02:43) Understanding Agile methodology(05:08) Personal Experiences with Agile(07:57) Literature and cultural references(23:18) Agile versus Waterfall (26:09) Principles and practices of Agile(32:01) Scrum: The most popular Agile framework(40:43) Challenges and limitations of Agile (49:30) Agile in Africa: Unique challenges and opportunities(01:00:02) Product Manager vs Project Manager(01:02:28) Collaboration tools for remote teams(01:08:24) Infrastructure limitations and remote work(01:11:08) Navigating hierarchies in Agile Teams

In this episode of the Design Gist Podcast, we discuss Hick's Law, a fundamental principle in UX design that states the time it takes to make a decision increases with the number and complexity of choices. We explore its relevance in today's content/app-saturated world, share personal updates, discuss product reviews, and reflect on the challenges designers face in creating user-friendly experiences. The conversation also highlights the importance of simplifying choices while also considering user familiarity and expectations in design.

The conversation explores the theme of convenience in design, discussing its evolution and impact on culture, particularly in the context of streaming services and social media. We reflect on how the pursuit of convenience can lead to decision fatigue, shallow content, and a loss of creativity, while also considering the broader implications of AI. We also discuss the need for a balance between convenience and meaningfulness, questioning whether the current trajectory of design is truly beneficial for society, especially the African one. The dialogue also touches on cultural differences and the responsibilities of users in navigating an increasingly convenient world.TakeawaysConvenience is often seen as the highest virtue in design.The evolution of design has led to a culture that prioritises convenience over depth.Streaming services have changed how we consume media, often leading to decision fatigue.Social media algorithms leads to shallow content and affect user engagement negatively.Convenience can lead to a loss of cultural richness and creativity.The push for seamless user experiences can sometimes result in manipulative design practices.The future of design may require a reevaluation of what convenience truly means. Convenience in delivery services is reshaping consumer behaviour.The shift in social media dynamics has altered user engagement.Design should not prioritise convenience at the expense of user experience.Users have a responsibility to navigate convenience mindfully.Proposed solutions include reintroducing friction in design to enhance meaningful user experience.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Convenience in Design(21:55) The Evolution of Convenience Culture(24:50) Critique of Convenience and Its Impact(25:19) The Complexity of Modern Design(27:58) The Duality of Convenience and Control(33:26) Streaming Services: A Shift in Anticipation(38:10) The Algorithm's Influence on Content Creation(50:20) The Evolving Nature of Social Media Connections(56:28) The Convenience Dilemma(59:51) Cultural Reflections on Convenience(01:02:00) The Impact of AI(01:07:40) Proposed Solutions for Digital Well-being(01:11:14) The Ethics of Design and User Responsibility(01:18:51) Concluding Thoughts

In this episode of the Design Gist podcast, we explore the Card Sorting as a design principle. We discuss its importance in understanding how users group information, the different types of card sorting (open and closed). We also engage in practical exercises exploring a music app and a budgeting app. Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Card Sorting(13:12) Understanding Card Sorting as a Design Principle(22:51 )Types of Card Sorting and Their Applications(34:43) A Practical Card Sorting Exercise - Music (35:42) Organising Content for User Experience(37:24) User Preferences and Expectations(39:40) The Importance of User Feedback(41:11) Grouping Features for Clarity - Budgeting (45:17) Collaborative Design and Group Dynamics(47:53) Naming and Categorising Features(50:56) Designing for User Interaction(55:16) Analysing User Behaviour and Preferences(59:56) Finalising Design Decisions(01:04:59) Reflections on User-Centred Design(01:11:54) The Future of AI in User Experience

TakeawaysMobile technology has transformed user experience in Africa.Mobile-first design is essential for businesses in Africa.Service design is crucial for improving government interactions with citizens.Nigerian government services need to adapt to mobile technology.Social media platforms are the primary e-commerce channels today.E-commerce platforms must build user trust through reliable systems.Nigerian designers often favour iOS due to its uniformity, despite Android's larger user base.Designers should focus on practical solutions that can be implemented in local contexts.Small-scale projects can lead to larger systemic changes in service design.The role of service designers needs to be emphasised.Designers should diversify their focus beyond fintech to address broader societal needs.Chapters(00:00) Surviving summer(02:45) At the Rema Concert(05:40) How our weeks went(08:18) Insights from the Design Workshop(11:13) The Impact of Mobile Technology on UX(16:46) Mobile-First Reality in Africa(19:42) E-commerce and Social Media Trends(28:20) The Role of Designers in a Mobile-First World(34:07) Nigerian Government Services and Mobile Technology(59:32) The Concept of a Social Media Designer(01:03:31) E-commerce Platforms and User Trust(01:13:16) Designing for Android vs. iOS in Nigeria(01:17:20) Government Services and Digital Transformation(01:21:52) The Need for Service Design in Nigeria(01:41:24) Empowering Designers to Innovate(01:48:29) Redesigning Nigerian Government Services for Mobile

In this episode, we talked about Jakob's Law, a principle in UX design that emphasizes the importance of familiarity in user interfaces. We discuss how reducing cognitive load through predictable design can enhance UX. The conversation explores the balance between innovation and familiarity, why usability testing matters, and the role of competitor analysis in understanding conventions. Chapters(00:00) Exploring Jacob's Law in UX Design(01:21) Cognitive Load and User Experience(04:07) Design Familiarity and User Expectations(07:03) Innovation vs. Predictability in Design(10:35) The Role of AI in User Experience(14:02) Usability Testing and User Feedback(19:30) Gradual Feature Releases and User Adaptation(20:55) Navigating Noisy Environments(20:55) The Impact of Social Media on User Experience(21:53) Understanding User Expectations in Design(22:54) The Challenges of Elevator Design(27:29 ) The Importance of Predictability in User Interfaces(30:50) Competitor Analysis in Design(32:40) The Misconceptions of UX/UI Design(34:59) Balancing Familiarity and Innovation in DesignTakeawaysUsers prefer familiar interfaces to reduce cognitive load.Feature updates should be gradual.Predictability in design helps users navigate easily.Balancing innovation with familiarity is crucial in UX.Competitor analysis (also) helps understand user expectations.Familiarity does not equate to low quality in design.KeywordsJacob's Law, UX Design, Cognitive Load, User Experience, Design Principles, Predictability, Innovation, Usability Testing, Competitor Analysis, Familiarity

In this episode, we’re counting down 10 products and experiences where aesthetics matched usability. From the crisp simplicity of the Google homepage to WeTransfer's seamless user flow and carefully curated ads, we nerd out over the times the appeal of a thing meets its ease of use.We also chat about planning to see Rema at the O2, our weekend plans, and a few spicy segues. Enjoy!(00:00) Catching up: Rema tickets, weekend plans, and podcasting struggles(04:32) Revisiting Aesthetics vs Usability episode(08:59) Our countdown begins: 10 aesthetic & usable experiences(11:59) Digital vs physical: How UX changes across formats(14:59) Ads in UX(27:43) The illusion of content creation success(30:49) Task management tools(41:56) Enny’s Doha Airport experience(53:56) Public facilities and poor design(1:02:59) Figma vs Adobe XD

This week, we’re asking the big one - Should design be pretty or just work well? We kick things off with some personal updates, content creation struggles, and a hiking trip to the Seven Sisters that took an unexpected UX turn - inclusive tourism. Then we go into the aesthetics vs. usability debate. We also talk the weird ways social media affects our taste, how accessibility demands a visual compromise, and whether Nigerians even care about world class design.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro0:45 – Content creation challenges1:44 – Weekly reflections & life updates4:48 – Hiking at Seven Sisters12:25 – Accessibility in tourism14:18 – Aesthetics vs. Usability in Design16:07 – How social media trends shape visual taste27:09 – Personal anecdotes31:54 – The fine line between pretty & practical34:28 – Why aesthetic appeal still matters35:36 – Visual quality in content creation39:30 – UX vs UI explained (again)42:12 – When accessibility demands a visual compromise46:46 – Who decides what’s “usable” or “beautiful”?50:41 – Real-world examples we love and hate59:14 – User types & their preferences1:04:22 – The value of Design in Nigeria1:06:30 – The Headies website controversy1:12:53 – Perception of value in Design

In this episode, we warm up with some personal updates — preferred communication styles and the harsh realities of living arrangements (mould). And then we discuss today's issues: AI’s impact on creativity, literature, UX design, and the broader digital world. We also talk about the perceived extinction and evolution of UX into PX (product experience), and debate whether gatekeeping might actually save the UX industry.

In this episode, we discuss usability testing in the context of African countries. We also break down the differences between user testing, usability testing, and QA testing—because no, they’re not the same thing. Another thing we explored was the rise of African UX freelancers Upwork offering usability testing services. We also talked about how cultural factors should be taken into consideration while gathering feedback, as well as some 'Product Thumbs-Downs' (user experience flows that just didn’t sit right with us)

In this episode, we discuss how hierarchy organises elements to create meaning and usability. From street furniture to digital interfaces, we discuss real-world examples and some moments when breaking hierarchy actually works.

In this 30-minute episode, we scratched the surface of Core Design Principles—a topic we’ll circle back to all year. From UX to graphic design to engineering, we explored why design principles vary so much across fields and why they all matter.

In this episode, we reflect on 2024 through our Spotify Wrapped insights, discussing its evolution and how our music habits have shaped the year. We also explore Dr. Ola Brown's 10 annual review questions to unpack the lessons, challenges, and growth we’ve experienced. A lighthearted yet meaningful wrap-up to close out the year!

In this episode, we’re talking about NewComma, the platform for African creatives to get gigs, grants or exposure. Why pick NewComma over platforms like Upwork or Fiverr? What’s up with its name? And who’s really hiring — local freelance hunters, international full-time recruiters?. Tune in for fun, insights, and a few surprises!

In this episode, we dive into a fascinating UX case study with our cohost Elsy, who takes us behind the scenes of Calmscapes, a stress-relief app she designed to help users find their calm in the chaos of everyday life. What started as an ambitious AR/VR project evolved into a practical MVP featuring real videos of serene natural environments—think peaceful beaches and tranquil mountain sides. Join us as we explore her journey, the challenges of designing for mental wellness, and the creative pivots that shaped Calmscapes into a tool for mindfulness and escape.

In this episode, we dive into a fascinating UX case study with our cohost, who takes us behind the scenes of Calmscapes, a stress-relief app she designed to help users find their calm in the chaos of everyday life. What started as an ambitious AR/VR project evolved into a practical MVP featuring real videos of serene natural environments—think peaceful beaches and tranquil mountain sides. Join us as we explore her journey, the challenges of designing for mental wellness, and the creative pivots that shaped Calmscapes into a tool for mindfulness and escape.

Building a Cultural Playground: Inside the design of an interactive mobile archive for user driven access to cultural exploration

Building a Cultural Playground: Inside the design of an interactive mobile archive for user driven access to cultural exploration

Our recent episode goes straight into the messy world of recent AI assistant mishaps!  We looked into the case of the Rabbit r1, an AI assistant whose performance left users scratching their heads. We also explore the ethical quandaries surrounding the "Humane AI Pin" and its usability.  Lastly, we tackle the controversial issue of Adobe allegedly forcing users to surrender their content for AI training. 

Enny and Elsy take a critical look at social media ethics, examining responsible app design and its impact on creating a positive online environment. They also consider the responsibility of co-designers (users) in cultivating and maintaining a healthy and sane social media environment.

Elsy and Enny speak on the evolution of social media from their personal experiences from 2go and Facebook to X and TikTok. They discuss the decadence, factors and the role of designers, stakeholders and users (co-designers) in designing a more ethical place for social media.

Feeling Uninspired? This episode tackles creative roadblocks & decision paralysis we face as designers. We also discuss the culture of posting design work on social media Designing for the World We dive into cultural considerations for design, exploring how major brands have approached different markets in the past. We also talk about a few things designers can keep in mind while designing for different cultures.

On this episode, social media opinions are selected and dissected by the dynamic duo. Which is a better on a landing page, an illustrator or a photo? What in-demand skill would you learn in 2024? Find out on Hot Takes in 30 mins

Enny and Elsy break down research methods in user experience design. They discuss the traditional methods of usability testing and user research and also explore the recent trends design teams currently follow and how it might translate in a Nigerian context.

Welcome to the debut episode of "Design Gist", where Enny and Elsy delve into UX design and research to explore how cultural factors influence the design process, particularly in the context of designing for African users. In this episode, they introduce the subject of User Experience Research, exploring how user experiences can be tailored to meet the needs of the users.