Design Agencies

Your constantly-updated definition of Design Agencies and collection of videos and articles
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What are Design Agencies?

UX (user experience) design agencies are specialized firms that focus on creating user-centered digital experiences for websites, applications and products. These agencies employ a team of skilled professionals—including UX designers, researchers and strategists—who work collaboratively to boost user satisfaction and engagement. Among their activities, agencies conduct user research, create wireframes and prototypes, perform usability testing and develop intuitive user interfaces (UIs) for clients.

Design Director at Societe Generale CIB, Morgane Peng explains important points about UX portfolios—a principal means for a designer to get an agency position:

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Why Are UX Design Agencies Popular?

A successful UX design agency is a valuable resource for many clients who wish to reach their target users and customers with the best design solutions for digital products and services. UX design agencies can offer a variety of services, unlike—for example—graphic design agencies that only offer graphic designers’ skills. UX agencies are specialized firms that bring together talented professionals who create user-friendly interfaces and seamless experiences for website designs and mobile apps. From startups to global corporations, UX design agencies help businesses connect with their audiences through intuitive designs and effective user journeys—all under a strong brand identity.

CEO of Experience Dynamics, Frank Spillers explains important points about user journeys:

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The goal of both the agency and the client who hires them is often to optimize the interaction between real users and a proposed digital product. So, the best UX design agencies can make sure that the dream of seamless navigation, accessibility and overall positive user experiences that align with client objectives and end-user needs does become a reality.

A top agency can be one of the wisest investments for a brand that seeks a high conversion rate. In a competitive marketplace, brands’ websites, apps and other products and services enter a kind of real-world arena to win and retain user and customer loyalty. So, a brand has much to consider before consulting—or outsourcing to—a design agency. That includes how its digital strategy and marketing strategy, including social media marketing, can contribute to making the most impact.

Some brands build their own in-house UX/UI teams. The benefits of that include the point that the teams will be more aligned with company goals and long-term vision, partly since they’re within the company and its culture. In-house teams can also be cost-effective for consistent workloads—if there's a steady stream of work. However, there also comes the challenge of resource management—from a financial and human resource (HR) standpoint. What’s more, there’s the risk of tunnel vision, where in-house teams may lack the external perspective that agencies can provide.

A screenshot of Clay's landing page.

Clay is a UX design agency in San Francisco that focuses on creating transformative digital experiences for brands.

© Clay, Fair Use

What Are Types of UX Design Agencies?

UX design agencies come in various forms. Each has its own strengths and specialties. The choice between these options depends on factors such as project scope, budget and long-term design needs. The main types of UX/UI design agencies include these ones:

1. Full-Service Digital Agencies

Full-service digital agencies offer a comprehensive range of services—from UX/UI design to development and marketing. These agencies have the equipment to handle all aspects of a digital project, which makes them a one-stop solution for businesses.

Key characteristics of full-service digital agencies include:

  1. Diverse expertise: They employ professionals with skills in UX research, UI design, development and digital marketing.

  1. End-to-end solutions: These agencies can take a project from concept to launch—and beyond.

  1. Holistic approach: They consider all aspects of a digital product. They make sure of consistency across user experience, branding and functionality.

Examples of full-service digital agencies include—in no particular order:

  • Beyond: This agency combines design thinking with cutting-edge technology to offer a wide range of services, including UX/UI design, product design and digital transformation.

  • Frog: With over 50 years of experience, Frog has worked with major brands like Volvo, Ikea and Coca-Cola.

A screenshot from Frog's landing page.

© Frog, Fair Use

2. Specialized UX Firms

Specialized UX firms focus exclusively on user experience and user interface design. These agencies often have deep expertise in specific industries or types of digital products.

Key characteristics of specialized UX firms include:

  1. Focused expertise: They excel in UX research, user testing and creating intuitive interfaces.

  1. Industry-specific knowledge: Many specialize in particular sectors like healthcare, finance or e-commerce.

  1. Innovative approaches: They often have cutting-edge design methodologies and tools to assist them.

Examples of specialized UX/UI firms include—again, in no particular order:

  • Ramotion: Based in San Francisco, Ramotion focuses on web and mobile development, as well as UI/UX design.

  • Work & Co: This agency puts senior designers and engineers on every project, and makes sure there’s a high level of expertise behind the creation of digital products and services.

  • UX Studio: This award-winning European agency specializes in UX research and digital product design.

The choice between these options depends on factors like project scope, budget and long-term design needs.

A screenshot from UX Studio's landing page.

© UX studio, Fair Use

What Benefits Can a UX/UI Designer Enjoy if They Work for a Design Agency?

There are pros and cons to agency work; here are some key benefits:

  1. Diverse project exposure: Design agencies typically work with a variety of clients across different industries. This lets UX/UI designers gain experience in multiple sectors—so they can expand their portfolio and skill set.

  1. Collaborative environment: Agencies often have teams of designers, developers and other creative professionals. This is something that nurtures a collaborative atmosphere—and it’s one where designers can learn from their peers and benefit from diverse perspectives in real time.

  1. Professional growth: Good design agencies usually invest in their employees' growth through training programs, workshops and conference attendance opportunities. This helps designers stay updated with the latest trends and technologies.

  1. Networking opportunities: To work with different clients and attend industry events can help designers build a strong professional network—and it’s something that can be valuable for future career opportunities.

  1. Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies: Reputable agencies often invest in the latest design tools and software. This means that a top UX design agency will give designers access to a massive fund of state-of-the-art resources.

  1. Structured workflow and processes: Agencies typically have established workflows and project management processes. These can help designers improve their efficiency and time management skills.

  1. Client interaction experience: Designers in agencies often get the opportunity to interact directly with clients. That exposure will improve their communication and presentation skills.

  1. Work on high-profile projects: Good agencies often attract well-known clients. That will give designers the chance to work on high-profile, impactful projects that can boost their portfolio and reputation. Naturally, the best design agencies in the world will be likely to have contacts with top-name brands.

  1. Faster skill development: The fast-paced nature of agency work and the variety of projects can accelerate a designer's skill development compared to in-house roles.

  1. Creative freedom: Many agencies encourage creative thinking and innovation—including out-of-the-box thinking. That lets designers explore new ideas and push boundaries in their work.

Author and Human-Computer Interaction Expert, Professor Alan Dix explains important points about how designers think outside the box:

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  1. Career advancement opportunities: As designers build up experience and prove their skills, they may have chances to advance to senior designer roles, creative director positions or even partnership roles within the agency.

  1. Work-life balance: Many modern design agencies recognize how important a work-life balance and offering flexible working hours or remote work options are.

  1. Competitive compensation: Good design agencies often offer competitive salaries and benefits packages to attract and retain top talent.

  1. Recognition and awards: Agencies frequently submit their best work for industry awards. That gives designers the chance to gain recognition for their contributions.

  1. Mentorship opportunities: Junior designers can often benefit from mentorship programs or informal guidance from more experienced colleagues in an agency setting.

It's important to note that the specific benefits can vary depending on the agency, its size, culture and focus. When a UX/UI designer considers joining a design agency, it's best to research the agency's reputation, work culture and growth opportunities. That way, they can make sure the agency aligns with their career goals and expectations.

An image showing a person reviewing one portfolio among many.

Designers need to make sure they stand out to an agency, principally through their UX portfolio.

© Interaction Design Foundation, CC BY-SA 4.0

What Challenges Might a Designer Face When Working for a Design Agency?

Here are some potential downsides of design agency work:

  1. Fast-paced environment: Design agencies often work on multiple projects simultaneously. That can lead to tight deadlines and high-pressure situations.

  1. Client-driven work: Designers may have to compromise their creative vision to meet client demands. It’s something that can be frustrating for those who prefer more creative freedom.

  1. Limited involvement in the full product lifecycle: Agency work often focuses on specific stages of a project. So, designers mightn’t see their work through to implementation or have long-term involvement with a product.

  1. Frequent context switching: To work on multiple projects for different clients can make it challenging to keep focus and dive deep into any single project.

  1. Less opportunity for user research: Due to time and budget constraints, agencies mightn’t always have the resources for extensive user research—or UX research—which is crucial for UX design.

UX Strategist and Consultant, William Hudson explains important points about user research:

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  1. Potential for burnout: The fast-paced nature of agency work—combined with tight deadlines and high expectations—can lead to stress and burnout.

  1. Limited specialization: Designers in agencies often need to be generalists who work on various types of projects. That reality may not allow for deep specialization in a particular area.

  1. Less stable work environment: Economic fluctuations can affect agency work—and potentially lead to cutbacks and job losses.

  1. Challenging client relationships: It can be hard to deal with difficult clients or manage their expectations. This aspect of agency work can be stressful and time-consuming, especially when it comes to client feedback.

Design Director at Societe Generale CIB, Morgane Peng explains important points about feedback.

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  1. Limited input on project selection: Designers typically don't have much say in which projects the agency takes on. It’s a lack of control that can—potentially—lead to work on less interesting or fulfilling projects.

  1. Reduced long-term impact: Unlike in-house roles where designers can see the long-term evolution of a product, agency work often involves shorter-term engagements.

  1. Potential for creative burnout: It can be creatively taxing, over time, to constantly have to come up with new ideas for different clients.

  1. Less opportunity for product ownership: Agency designers mightn’t have the chance to truly own a product and see it evolve over time. It’s someone else’s “baby” to see through to “adulthood.”

  1. Limited access to user feedback: Once a project is complete, designers mightn’t have access to user feedback or usage data to inform future iterations.

  1. Pressure to constantly pitch and win new business: Some agencies involve designers in the pitching process. That “sell” side of the coin can add extra pressure and take time away from design work.

It's important to note that these potential downsides can vary greatly depending on the specific agency, its culture and management style. Many designers find agency work exciting and rewarding despite these challenges—as it offers variety, exposure to different industries and opportunities to work on diverse projects. It can therefore be a chance for them to make good on the value proposition they offer the agency and—by association—their clients.

An image representing a value proposition of a designer.

© Interaction Design Foundation, CC BY-SA 4.0

What are Key Skills of UX/UI Design Professionals?

UX/UI design professionals need a diverse set of skills to create effective and user-friendly digital products. These skills span the range of technical expertise, creative abilities and interpersonal qualities. The required skill set will depend on what the agency specifically wants in a designer to join them. Still, key skills that are essential for success in this field include:

1. User Research Methods

To understand user behaviors, needs and challenges forms the foundation of UX/UI design. Professionals in this field need to be adept at various user research methods to collect valuable insights. These methods include:

  1. Quantitative research: This involves collecting numerical data through surveys, polls and systematic observations to identify patterns and trends.

  1. Qualitative research: This method focuses on gathering in-depth insights through interviews, field studies, focus groups and usability tests to understand user attitudes and behaviors.

UX Strategist and Consultant, William Hudson explains the difference between quantitative and qualitative research:

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  1. Card sorting: This technique helps designers organize information in a logical structure—something that’s crucial to make intuitive navigation and information architecture.

  1. Usability testing: This involves observing users as they interact with a product—identifying pain points and areas for improvement.

William Hudson explains essential aspects of user testing:

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  1. Personas: Designers create user personas—representative user profiles based on research data to guide design decisions.

When UX/UI designers master these research methods, they can make data-driven decisions and create products that truly meet user needs.

Author and Human-Computer Interaction Expert, Professor Alan Dix explains important points about personas:

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2. Experience with Design Tools and Software

Proficiency in various design tools and software is crucial for UX/UI designers to bring their ideas to life. Some essential tools include:

  1. Prototyping and wireframing tools: To create interactive mockups and prototypes.

  1. Visual design software: To create visual elements and high-fidelity mockups.

  1. Collaboration tools: Especially vital for working with remote teams.

  1. User testing platforms: To conduct usability tests and collect user feedback efficiently.

  1. Project management software: To help manage tasks, timelines and team collaboration.

Designers should stay updated with the latest quality tools and continuously improve their skills to enhance their workflow and productivity.

Professor Alan Dix explains important points about prototyping:

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3. Excellent “Soft Skills” in Collaboration and Communication

Effective collaboration and communication are vital for UX/UI designers to work successfully within teams. Key aspects of this skill include:

  1. Cross-functional teamwork: UX/UI designers have to collaborate with product managers, developers, marketers and other stakeholders to make sure the design goals are in line with the business objectives.

UX Designer and Author of Build Better Products and UX for Lean Startups, Laura Klein explains important points about working with cross-functional teams:

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  1. Presentation skills: Designers need to articulate their ideas clearly and persuasively to gain buy-in from stakeholders and team members.

Author, Speaker and Leadership Coach, Todd Zaki Warfel explains vital aspects of presenting to stakeholders:

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  1. Empathy: It’s crucial for designers to understand and consider the perspectives of users, team members and stakeholders if they’re to create truly user-centered designs. Empathy is also a core part of design thinking, a design process with which designers should be familiar—but, ideally, proficient in it.

Watch our video to see why empathy is vital in design:

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  1. Design handoffs: To ensure smooth transitions from design to development phases is something that calls for clear communication and documentation.

  1. Feedback management: Designers have got to be open to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve their work and nurture a collaborative environment.

  1. Design systems: To create and maintain design systems promotes consistency and makes for better collaboration between designers and developers.

When UX/UI designers hone these collaboration and communication skills, they’ll have a vital asset in that they can prove they can contribute to a more efficient and harmonious work environment—and make themselves more attractive to hiring agencies.

A Venn diagram with three circles of feasible, desirable and viable with the goal in the overlap.

Design thinking is a particularly useful UX design process for agencies to use for their clients—and the design thinking process helps design teams zero in on the goal of a UX project.

© Interaction Design Foundation, CC BY-SA 4.0

What’s the Best Way to Get Work with a Design Agency?

Best practices for UX and UI designers to join a design agency include these important tips:

1. Polish the UX Portfolio

The portfolio is often the first point of contact between prospective new agency designers and the agencies that take them on.

An image of two people with the caption Your portfolio is your most important design project.

This adage will serve designers well—be it to join an agency, work as freelancers or approach brands for in-house positions.

© Interaction Design Foundation, CC BY-SA 4.0

So, it’s important for designers to:

  • Showcase their best and most relevant work.

  • Highlight diverse projects that demonstrate their versatility.

  • Include case studies that explain their design process and problem-solving skills—ideally with storytelling to give each case study a powerful arc.

A diagram showing how a story arc is good for case studies.

© Interaction Design Foundation, CC BY-SA 4.0

  • Make sure the portfolio is easily accessible online and optimized for various devices.

Design Director at Societe Generale CIB, Morgane Peng explains another vital aspect of UX portfolios:

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2. Stay Current with Industry Trends

It’s important to:

  • Keep up-to-date with the latest design tools and software.

  • Follow industry leaders and design agencies on social media.

  • Attend design conferences, workshops and webinars.

  • Regularly read design blogs, books and the like.

3. Develop a Strong Skill Set

Designers should also be sure they have:

  • Mastered core UX/UI design principles.

  • Enhanced prototyping and wireframing skills.

  • Proficiency with tools and be able to collaborate with developers.

  • Cultivated soft skills like communication, teamwork and time management.

4. Network Effectively

It’s always a plus to network, so designers should:

  • Attend industry events and meetups.

  • Engage with design communities online.

  • Reach out to professionals in desired agencies for informational interviews.

  • Use professional sites like LinkedIn to connect with recruiters and agency employees.

5. Tailor The Application

To fine-tune the approach is a vital part of the application process, so designers should:

  • Research the agency thoroughly before they apply.

  • Understand its policies regarding non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and other matters.

Morgane Peng explains essential aspects of NDAs:

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  • Customize the cover letter and resume for each application.

Morgane Peng explains important points about resumes:

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  • Show genuine interest in the agency's work and culture.

  • Highlight skills and experiences that align with the agency's focus and values, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), and voice user interfaces (VUIs).

Founding Director – Design Lab at University of California, San Diego, and Co-Founder of Nielsen Norman Group, Don Norman explains important points about AR and VR:

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6. Prepare for the Interview

It’s essential to get this aspect into sharp focus, and designers should:

  • Practice explaining their design decisions and process, as well as their value proposition.

  • Be ready to discuss their favorite projects and challenges they've overcome.

  • Prepare thoughtful questions about the agency and the role.

  • Consider bringing a small design challenge or exercise to showcase their skills.

Morgane Peng explains important points about value propositions:

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7. Demonstrate Adaptability

Designers should also:

  • Show willingness to learn new tools and methodologies.

  • Highlight experiences working in cross-functional teams.

  • Emphasize their ability to receive and incorporate feedback.

  • Showcase any experience with agile or other project management methodologies.

Laura Klein explains important points about the agile design approach:

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8. Understand The Business Side

It’s also helpful for designers to:

  • Familiarize themselves with basic business concepts and terminology.

  • Show interest in how design impacts business goals and metrics.

  • Demonstrate their ability to balance user needs with business objectives.

  • Be prepared to discuss the return on investment (ROI) of good design.

CEO of Experience Dynamics, Frank Spillers explains important aspects of ROI:

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9. Embrace Collaboration

Designers can also enhance their employability for an agency if they:

  • Highlight experiences working with diverse teams—such as developers and product managers.

  • Show enthusiasm for brainstorming and ideation sessions.

  • Demonstrate their ability to give and receive constructive criticism.

  • Emphasize skills in presenting and defending design decisions.

UX Strategist and Consultant, William Hudson explains important points about brainstorming:

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10. Experience Continuous Learning and Growth

Last—but not least—it’s helpful for a designer’s chances to:

  • Show commitment to ongoing professional development.

  • Highlight any relevant certifications or courses they've completed.

  • Discuss their design philosophy and how it evolves with new knowledge.

  • Express eagerness to mentor junior designers or learn from senior team members.

A diagram of the 1-10-100 rule and how early prototyping prevents costly errors in advance.

Clients don’t necessarily have to turn to the best UX design company in the world to enjoy wise savings in the investment they make in skilled and insightful UX-UI agency designers who understand rules like this one.

© Interaction Design Foundation, CC BY-SA 4.0

Overall, UX/UI design agencies play a crucial role in shaping digital experiences. These design firms bring together skilled professionals to create user-friendly interfaces and seamless journeys for websites and apps. From startups to global corporations, design agencies help businesses connect with their audience through intuitive design and effective user experiences—and with talented individuals who don’t just have strong design skills but are a good fit for the agency’s culture, too. What’s more, the designers who join agencies can enjoy a range of benefits while they build up experience—including on the cutting edge of technology and design itself—and consider if they should stay on, become freelance UX/UI designers or attach themselves to the most profitable brands directly.

Learn More About UX/UI Design Agencies

Our course Build a Standout UX/UI Portfolio: Land Your Dream Job with Design Director at Societe Generale CIB, Morgane Peng provides a precious cache of details and tips for freelance designers.

Watch our Master Class, Win Clients, Pitches & Approval: Present Your Designs Effectively with Todd Zaki Warfel, Author, Speaker and Leadership Coach for many valuable insights.

Read our piece, How to Write Great Case Studies for Your UX Design Portfolio for valuable additional insights.

Go to our piece, How to Price Your Freelance and B2B Work for further helpful insights.

Check out Top 10 UX Design Agencies to Work With – August 2024 by Dávid Pásztor and Zsuzsanna Kőszegi for valuable insights.

See Agency, startup, in-house, freelance; where should I work as a UX designer? by Bas Wallet for further helpful insights.

Read Pros and Cons of Working as a Designer at a UX Design Agency by Adam Fard for additional important details.

Questions related to Design Agency

How do I choose the right UX design agency to work for as a designer?

First, identify what you value in a job. Do you prefer creative freedom, a strong team or opportunities to learn? Some “market research” will help—so look at agencies’ work culture, projects and employee reviews. Check if their design style matches your own and if they have clients or industries you find interesting. Talk to current or former employees—if you can—to get an inside view of things like design processes or development processes, for example.  

During interviews, ask about the team, the design process and chances for growth and advancement. The best UI/UX design agency for you will align with your career goals, offer a supportive environment and let you do work you truly enjoy. 

Read our piece, How to Write Great Case Studies for Your UX Design Portfolio for valuable additional insights. 

Go to our piece, How to Price Your Freelance and B2B Work for further helpful insights. 

How do UX design agencies differ from freelance designers?

UX design agencies and freelance designers differ in a few key ways. Agencies usually have a team of designers—each with different skills, so they can handle bigger projects and offer a range of services. They often follow a set process and have more resources, like research tools and testing labs. 

Meanwhile, freelance designers work alone. That gives them more flexibility and allows for closer collaboration with clients. They might be more affordable and can offer a personalized approach. Even so, they mightn’t have the same level of support as an agency. A client might choose an agency for complex projects with tight deadlines. Or they might choose a freelancer if they want a more tailored experience and direct communication. It depends. 

Read our piece, How to Write Great Case Studies for Your UX Design Portfolio for valuable additional insights. 

Go to our piece, How to Price Your Freelance and B2B Work for further helpful insights. 

Why should I hire a UX design agency instead of doing it in-house?

To hire a UX design agency can offer several advantages over doing the work in-house. Agencies bring a team of experts with diverse skills. So, they can tackle various aspects of UX design—from research to final design. They often have experience with many industries. That means they can offer fresh perspectives and proven solutions.  

Agencies can also work faster since they can focus solely on a client’s project, while an in-house team may have other duties. What’s more, agencies provide access to specialized tools and resources that a company mightn’t have. If a brand’s in-house team lacks UX experience or if they need to complete a project quickly and at a high standard, it’s a smart choice to hire a UX design agency. 

Read our piece, How to Write Great Case Studies for Your UX Design Portfolio for valuable additional insights. 

Go to our piece, How to Price Your Freelance and B2B Work for further helpful insights. 

What services do UX design agencies typically offer?

UX design agencies typically offer a range of services to improve user experience. They start with user research to understand the target audience’s needs and user behaviors. They then create wireframes and prototypes to plan the layout and flow of the client’s product.  

Agencies conduct usability testing to find and fix problems early, too. They design user interfaces (UIs) that are both attractive and easy to use. Some agencies provide additional services. These could be content strategy, information architecture and accessibility audits, for instance. They ensure that every part of the digital product works together to create a smooth and enjoyable experience for users. When they handle everything from research to final design, UX design agencies can more effectively help their clients build products that meet user needs and business goals. 

UX Strategist and Consultant, William Hudson explains important points about user research: 

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Read our piece, How to Write Great Case Studies for Your UX Design Portfolio for valuable additional insights. 

Go to our piece, How to Price Your Freelance and B2B Work for further helpful insights. 

What is the typical process of working with a UX design agency?

When a client works with a UX design agency, the process usually starts with a discovery phase. The agency learns about the client’s business, goals and users. Next, they conduct user research to collect insights and understand—in depth—the client’s target users or audience.  

Based on this research, the agency staff create wireframes and prototypes to map out the design. The client reviews these drafts and gives feedback. After the agency refines the designs, they conduct usability tests to make sure that everything works well for users. Once the design is finalized, they hand over the final files—and they may even help with implementation. Throughout the process, the agency stays in close contact with the client to make sure that the project stays on track and meets their needs. 

Read our piece, How to Write Great Case Studies for Your UX Design Portfolio for valuable additional insights. 

Go to our piece, How to Price Your Freelance and B2B Work for further helpful insights. 

UX Strategist and Consultant, William Hudson explains important points about user research: 

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How do UX design agencies handle revisions and feedback?

UX design agencies handle revisions and feedback through a structured process. After presenting their initial designs, they ask the client for feedback. They listen carefully to the client’s suggestions and concerns. Then, they make the necessary changes.  

Most agencies allow several rounds of revisions to ensure the final design meets client expectations. They often set clear timelines for each round of feedback, so the project stays on schedule. Communication remains open and transparent. This lets the client track progress and address any issues quickly. Agencies value their clients’ input throughout the process and work to balance a client’s vision with best practices in UX design. This collaborative approach helps create a final product that aligns with the client’s goals. 

Design Director at Societe Generale CIB, Morgane Peng explains important points about feedback. 

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How do UX design agencies work with startups versus large companies?

UX design agencies approach startups and large companies differently. With startups, agencies often focus on building a strong foundation. They help define the brand, create user-friendly designs and prioritize essential features for a successful launch. Agencies that work with startups usually offer more flexibility—adapting quickly to changes as the startup evolves.  

For large companies, agencies tend to handle more complex projects. They might redesign existing products, improve user experiences or integrate new features into established systems. Agencies that work with large companies follow structured processes and stick to strict timelines. They also collaborate with multiple teams within the company to make sure the design really does fall in line with overall business goals. 

In both cases, agencies tailor their approach to meet the unique needs and challenges of the client, such as extensive user research. 

UX Strategist and Consultant, William Hudson explains important points about user research: 

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How do UX design agencies handle intellectual property?

UX design agencies handle intellectual property (IP) by clearly defining ownership in the contract. Before the start of a project, the agency and client agree on who will own the final designs, research data and other deliverables. Most agencies transfer full ownership of the IP to the client after the project is completed and paid for. This means the client has the right to use, modify or distribute the work as they see fit.  

Some agencies may retain rights to certain tools or templates they used, but these usually aren’t part of the final deliverables. It’s important for clients to discuss IP rights at the beginning to avoid confusion later. This ensures that the client owns the work and can use it without any legal concerns. It’s also wise for the designers within the agency to be aware of such aspects of copyright, such as what a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) contains—and means.  

Design Director at Societe Generale CIB, Morgane Peng explains important points about NDAs. 

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How do UX design agencies help with post-launch support?

UX design agencies offer post-launch support to make sure a product continues to perform well after it goes live. They monitor user feedback and analyze data to spot any issues or areas for improvement. If problems arise, the agency makes adjustments to the design or user flow to fix them. They may also provide updates to keep the product current with user needs or industry trends.  

Agencies often conduct follow-up usability tests to confirm that users are satisfied with the product. Some agencies offer ongoing maintenance services—which makes sure the product stays functional and user-friendly over time. This post-launch support helps the product stay effective and keeps users engaged. 

UX Strategist and Consultant, William Hudson explains important points about usability testing: 

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How do UX design agencies adapt to different industries?

UX design agencies adapt to different industries by first understanding the unique needs and challenges of each sector. To begin, they research industry-specific trends, user behaviors and regulations. This research helps them create designs that meet the specific demands of the industry—whether it’s healthcare, finance, e-commerce or another field.  

Agencies also draw on their experience from past projects to apply best practices that suit each industry. They collaborate closely with clients to make sure the design aligns with industry standards and the client’s goals. From tailoring their approach to the specific requirements of each industry, UX design agencies deliver solutions that resonate with the target audience and address the industry's unique challenges—and get the content just right for the target audience. 

CEO of Experience Dynamics, Frank Spillers explains essential points about content strategy: 

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What are some highly cited articles about UX/UI design agencies?

Brown, T. (2008). Design thinking. Harvard Business Review, 86(6), 84-92.   

This seminal article by Tim Brown, CEO of IDEO, introduced the concept of design thinking to a broader business audience. It has been highly influential in shaping how design agencies approach problem-solving and innovation. Brown argues that design thinking—a human-centered approach to innovation—is applicable to various business challenges beyond traditional product design. The article outlines the key principles of design thinking, including empathy, ideation and experimentation; plus, it provides examples of how this approach has been successfully applied in different industries. This publication has been instrumental in elevating the role of design agencies from mere aesthetic service providers to strategic partners in business innovation. 

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Literature on Design Agencies

Here’s the entire UX literature on Design Agencies by the Interaction Design Foundation, collated in one place:

Learn more about Design Agencies

Take a deep dive into Design Agencies with our course Build a Standout UX/UI Portfolio: Land Your Dream Job .

“Your portfolio is your best advocate in showing your work, your skills and your personality. It also shows not only the final outcomes but the process you took to get there and how you aligned your design decisions with the business and user needs.” 

— Morgane Peng, Design Director, Societe Generale CIB 

In many industries, your education, certifications and previous job roles help you get a foot in the door in the hiring process. However, in the design world, this is often not the case. Potential employers and clients want to see evidence of your skills and work and assess if they fit the job or design project in question. This is where portfolios come in.  

Your portfolio is your first impression, your foot in the door—it must engage your audience and stand out against the hundreds of others they might be reviewing. Join us as we equip you with the skills and knowledge to create a portfolio that takes you one step closer to your dream career. 

Build Your Portfolio is taught by Morgane Peng, a designer, speaker, mentor and writer who serves as Director of Experience Design at  Societe Generale CIB. With over 12 years of experience in management roles, she has reviewed thousands of design portfolios and conducted hundreds of interviews with designers. She has collated her extensive real-world knowledge into this course to teach you how to build a compelling portfolio that hiring managers will want to explore. 

In lesson 1, you’ll learn the importance of portfolios and which type of portfolio you should create based on your career stage and background. You’ll discover the most significant mistakes designers make in their portfolios, the importance of content over aesthetics and why today is the best day to start documenting your design processes. This knowledge will serve as your foundation as you build your portfolio. 

In lesson 2, you’ll grasp the importance of hooks in your portfolio, how to write them, and the best practices based on your career stage and target audience. You’ll learn how and why to balance your professional and personal biographies in your about me section, how to talk about your life before design and how to use tools and resources in conjunction with your creativity to create a unique and distinctive portfolio. 

In lesson 3, you’ll dive into case studies—the backbone of your portfolio. You’ll learn how to plan your case studies for success and hook your reader in to learn more about your design research, sketches, prototypes and outcomes. An attractive and attention-grabbing portfolio is nothing without solid and engaging case studies that effectively communicate who you are as a designer and why employers and clients should hire you. 

In lesson 4, you’ll understand the industry expectations for your portfolio and how to apply the finishing touches that illustrate your attention to detail. You’ll explore how visual design, menus and structure, landing pages, visualizations and interactive elements make your portfolio accessible, engaging and compelling. Finally, you’ll learn the tips and best practices to follow when you convert your portfolio into a presentation for interviews and pitches. 

Throughout the course, you'll get practical tips to apply to your portfolio. In the "Build Your Portfolio" project, you'll create your portfolio strategy, write and test your hook, build a case study and prepare your portfolio presentation. You’ll be able to share your progress, tips and reflections with your coursemates, gain insights from the community and elevate each other’s portfolios. 

All open-source articles on Design Agencies

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Cite according to academic standards

Simply copy and paste the text below into your bibliographic reference list, onto your blog, or anywhere else. You can also just hyperlink to this page.

Interaction Design Foundation - IxDF. (2016, October 19). What are Design Agencies?. Interaction Design Foundation - IxDF.

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