Incorporating AI into the UX Design Process - A Study of Concept Exploration and Ideation

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are becoming a common part of UX design practice and are increasingly being integrated into different stages of the design process. Despite their growing adoption, there is still a limited understanding of how designers experience using these tools, particularly during the early and creative phases of design. This thesis began with exploratory research to investigate the current use of AI throughout the UX design process and to identify key opportunities and challenges. Based on the findings of this initial study, the research focused on how junior and mid-level UX designers use AI during concept exploration and ideation. To investigate this, two workshop sessions were conducted in which participants used AI tools while completing a concept exploration and ideation task. Data was collected through think-aloud observations, mind maps, love and breakup letters, and focus group discussions. The findings show that designers mainly value AI as a warm-up tool that helps them get started, generate initial directions, and stimulate thinking. However, several challenges were identified, including generic outputs, AI sycophancy, difficulties in creating effective prompts, and the limitations of a linear chat interface for visual and exploratory design work. Based on these findings, six recommendations were developed and evaluated with the participants to support a more effective and critical use of AI during concept exploration and ideation. The recommendations address prompting strategies, maintaining critical thinking, managing generic outputs, and structuring the ideation process when collaborating with AI.