As designers to serve people well, we must anticipate change and adapt quickly.
I learned this lesson early in my career, transitioning from demanding agency work to leading large design teams in a supportive tech environment.
The tech landscape is shifting again, faster than ever.
And, it's driven by AI.
Don't panic. Designers who anticipate this shift will lead it.
Let's look at where your value truly lies in this new era.
Shift: From busywork to strategy
AI isn't going to plateau.
Tools like Cursor, Lovable, Figma Make and Galileo AI are already reducing the time from "idea" to "prototype" from days to minutes.
This doesn't eliminate the designer; it eliminates the busywork around design.
Designers who refuse to integrate AI into their workflow risk being outpaced by those who use it to amplify their craft.
When execution becomes automated the value shifts from being a great executor to being a great problem-solver, synthesizer and strategist.
The new design skill set
As AI takes over iteration and production, your competitive advantage becomes deeply human and strategic.
Invest in these three core skills:
- Problem framing: AI can generate endless solutions but it can’t identify the right problem to solve. That requires empathy and vision.
- Listening and synthesis: The best designers are the best listeners. You connect dots, understand people, and synthesize insights that AI can only process as data.
- Taste and judgment: AI produces volume; you provide the discernment, ethical framework and the storytelling necessary to create the right direction and impact.
Start adapting now
You don't need to master everything, you just need to become AI-curious.
- Choose one tool: Pick a single AI design tool (like Cursor or Figma Make) and dedicate 15 minutes each week to exploring its potential.
- Remove friction: Use AI for your first draft. Whether it’s copy, code, or a quick wireframe. Then step in and edit like the human designer you are.
- Stay curious: Your mindset is what future-proofs your career. Remember, consistency beats perfection every time.
Thanks for reading, see you next week!
Anthony Faria
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