Darren HoodThe fact that the UX world is overrun with self-proclaimed "design leaders" with very little to no actual experience in the discipline should have been, at its onset, and continue to be a MAJOR RED FLAG!!!
Some people APPEAR to be "on top," but you can tell they're not.... because they NEVER pull anyone "up."
They CAN'T (incapable) and WON'T (unwilling, even if they could).
UX Reminder: Many companies hiring for UX.... don't really want UX talent. But they'll hire ANYONE to fill a seat and play the role.
If you want to impact UX for the better, you have to be willing to stand for global awareness about the discipline's truths, instead of accepting things that are erroneously handed down.
One doesn't need a degree to succeed in UX, but learning without structure OR with faux structure fosters shipwreck. However you decide to proceed, make sure you choose wisely, as it will determine if you become part of UX's problem or its solution.
"Better" portfolio ≠ Better UXer.
Time to stop drinking and spreading the associated Kool-aid mindset.
For many people, valuing debate helps them give "life" to senseless topics.... such as this. Synthetic vs. real users is NOT a debate. It's a conversation for those without skill and no intent on working to obtain it. It makes zero sense.
Another uncomfortable reminder: Beware of UX resources and talking head groups.... where EVERYONE in the group looks alike. In racist and sexist solutions, no matter what they appear to present, the isms and other aspects of corruption are active down to their very core.
Saving salary is not the only reason many companies opt to hire less experienced people for their UX teams. It's a reflection of the lack of leadership skills that plagues our discipline.
Recently heard someone say "a person can achieve domain knowledge just by using AI." THAT IS ABSOLUTELY LUDICROUS!!! AI regurgitates and, itself, does not have domain knowledge. Will somebody tell folks we're not in "The Matrix." You can't just do the equivalent of sitting in a chair for 5 seconds and learn Kung Fu.
