HCD News Roundup - AI Reshapes UX Careers plus Canva acquires Affinity and more

In this episode, we explore the shifting landscape of design, product, and UX through a collection of standout insights, research, and emerging tools. From how AI is reshaping search behaviour to the surprising comeback of the UX generalist, this roundup surfaces the trends every designer and product leader should have on their radar.

We dig into new research from NNGroup, discuss how designer exposure is directly linked to effectiveness, look at the responsibilities that come with systems-level leadership, and highlight how disability-led innovation continues to influence mainstream design. You’ll also hear about fresh tools—like Affinity becoming free and a new one-page site builder—designed to help teams work faster and smarter.

Timestamps

• [00:00] How AI is changing search behaviours — users still defaulting to Google
• [02:15] The return of the UX generalist — broad skills becoming more valuable
• [03:45] New tools spotlight: Affinity Suite now free, Ordinary site builder
• [05:30] Designer exposure and its connection to effectiveness
• [06:45] Systems thinking and leadership responsibilities
• [07:30] Interface patterns: Hamburger menu recognition study
• [08:15] Disability tech innovations driving broader design solutions

Key Resources

• AI Search Behaviour Research — Nielsen Norman Group study on changing user patterns
• Return of the Generalist — NNGroup video on AI’s impact on UX careers
• Affinity Suite — Free creative tools via Canva acquisition (via Dense Discovery)
• Ordinary — One-page site builder for rapid concepts
• Hamburger Menu Study — Updated NNGroup research on icon recognition
• Disability Tech Innovations — Mashable roundup of breakthrough startups

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