When you think of a startup founder, you might picture a coding whiz pulling all-nighters or a marketer pitching to anyone who’ll listen. We all watched The Social Network and some of us dreamed of creating something unique that will attract billions of users. But there’s another type of founder that’s quietly making waves: the UX designer. These individuals don’t just know how to make things look pretty — they understand what makes people tick and how to turn a good idea into a product that users genuinely need.
In this article, we’ll dive into why UX designers make incredible startup founders. Spoiler: it’s not just about aesthetics. Let’s get into it!
They Know the Importance of Talking to Users
UX designers are usually involved in user research at different stages of product development. They know that great products don’t just happen — they’re built by understanding users every step of the way. They’re the ones talking to users before a single line of code is written to understand product market fit, during design, after launch, and even just to check in if product and its features are still relevant. They understand how important it is to take a step back, do a reality check, and make sure they’re building something users actually need — before it’s too late and you’ve spent two years writing millions of lines of code for a product that very few people want and even fewer are willing to pay for. 
Illustrations are created via Storyset by Freepik
They Make Sure Your Product Doesn’t Look Like an All-Nighter
Let’s face it: no one wants to use an app or website that looks like it was slapped together in the dead of night by a developer running on coffee and desperation. UX designers get that usability is just as important as aesthetics. They ensure everything not only looks good but also works well, with buttons where they should be — visible and clickable!
Where do your eyes go first?
Your MVP Won’t Scare Users Away
Many early-stage startups skimp on design to save money, leading to MVPs that, while functional, are far from polished. But when a UX designer is on the team, even your MVP looks decent. First impressions matter, and a polished MVP can win users and investors over right from the start.
User-First Decisions
UX designers are committed to putting users first. They won’t compromise on features that make life easier for your users, even when there’s pressure to cut corners. This means users stick around because they love using your product — not just because it’s the only option.
Iterate Like a Pro
UX designers thrive on feedback and are pros at making quick improvements. They’re always testing, tweaking, and refining based on what real users say. This means your startup can adapt and grow fast, making changes that keep users happy and ahead of the competition.
UX designers bring a blend of creativity, empathy, and user-focused strategy to the table, making them exceptional startup founders. They’re not just building products — they’re crafting experiences that resonate with users. So, if you’re looking to launch a startup and searching for a co-founder, don’t just look for technical skills — having a UX designer on your team might be your secret weapon to success.
Why Startups Need UX Designers as Founders was originally published in UX Planet on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.
