The article "Figma and the Enshittification of Product Design" by Jon Upshaw, published on UX Planet, critiques how profit-driven software like Figma has, in the author's view, undermined the design industry. Upshaw argues that while Figma has become synonymous with modern product design due to its ease of use and collaborative features, its rise reflects a broader trend where commercial interests overshadow genuine design innovation. He suggests that the industry's focus on profitability has led to a homogenization of design tools and practices, potentially stifling creativity and diversity in design solutions. citeturn0search0
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This perspective has sparked discussions within the design community about the balance between accessibility, commercial success, and the preservation of design integrity. Some practitioners express concerns that reliance on dominant platforms like Figma may lead to a conformity in design approaches, while others appreciate the efficiencies and collaborative opportunities these tools provide.
The term "enshittification" used in the article is a colloquial expression denoting the degradation of quality or value, often due to commercialization. In this context, it reflects the author's critical stance on the current trajectory of product design influenced by profit-centric software development.
For a more in-depth exploration of these arguments, you can read the full article on UX Planet. citeturn0search0