The unique attributes of UX and UI

The misconception that UX and UI are the same disciplines creates some frustration with UX and UI designers, who are expected to perform tasks they're not always specialized in nor passionate about. Of course, there's always the exception of those who enjoy both UX and UI design and can effortlessly shift between the two. Both UX and UI designers focus on usability and improving the user experience, one more analytical and the other more visual. Here is a more detailed breakdown of each and how they complement each other:

• UX designers are strategic thinkers who have a conceptual approach to solving problems. They enjoy the challenge of diving into data and taking it apart by analyzing every possible element. UX designers understand the importance of every piece of information, even if it seems insignificant to others, it may have an impact on the bigger picture. No stone is left unturned during the research phase. They know that the UX strategy is just as strong as the data and research done. While UX designers are digging in the dirt, UI designers usually prefer not to get mud on their shoes. They usually wait for the UX designers to finish the digging and give guidance on how to convert the findings into an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly website.
• UI designers are creative thinkers. They're skilled artisans with a visionary approach to taking data and using interaction design principles to create a website that's not just aesthetically pleasing but user-friendly as well. While a UI designer's focus is mainly on functional presentation of a website by crafting a smooth user interface, a UX designer's focus is on the interaction of the user with the website.

This preceding visual comparison is only an example to explain the main (not limited to) differences between the two specialties. There are many designers who enjoy both UX and UI design and can execute the tasks from both fields successfully. Also, keep in mind that the tools of the trade change often and the tools you use are purely personal preference or project-specific.

The list provided is merely a guideline of established applications and it's advised to try all the tools available. This will not just improve your overall skill set but give you a broader understanding of executing UX tasks within different environments.