Today we're covering a critical mindset shift in AI usage, moving from chasing trends to solving real customer problems, as Josh LaMar suggests. And we'll hear what the community is saying about an innovative tote bag concept and résumé advice when your past roles didn't track outcomes.

Welcome to The Feed & The Thread, brought to you by Chicago Camps. Our next UX Camp event is coming up in February. We're still accepting presentations for the event - submit your talk today!

Here's a few new things worth your attention across the industry. Let's dive in!

Josh LaMar at UX Design.cc argues for a critical mindset shift from using AI as a trendy addition to employing it as a tool that genuinely solves customer problems. He contrasts the hype-driven approach, which often results in unnecessary features and wasted resources, with a value-focused strategy centered on real customer needs over flashy technology.

Over at Web Designer News, "AI-Powered Alumni Management Software: Transforming Alumni Engagement in Higher Education" discusses how AI is revolutionizing alumni engagement. The article highlights the use of machine learning algorithms to personalize communication and track alumni activities while stressing the importance of maintaining a human touch.

Dylan Brouwer's piece at Codrops, "From Design-First to Motion-Driven: Dylan Brouwer’s Journey into the No-Code Frontier," explores his transition from traditional design-first approaches to motion-driven web development. He emphasizes blending visual design with UX through dynamic animations using tools like Webflow and GSAP.

Also publishing recently: Nielsen Norman Group, Smashing Magazine, and LukeW. Be sure to check them out in your feeds!

Alright, what's the community buzzing about this time around?

Over in the Design subreddit, someone came up with this cool tote bag concept that suddenly popped into their head - got ninety-eight upvotes too! It's always amazing how inspiration just strikes like that. Meanwhile, u/bangonthedrums pointed out a silly mistake: "You’ve got Sydney on there twice!" Classic oversight.

And speaking of design oversights, over in the UX Research subreddit, someone’s feeling a bit stuck and looking for résumé advice because they come from an organization that doesn’t track results. It's tough when you feel like your experience isn't translating well to the next step. I mean, that’s no fun for anyone.

In another part of the Design subreddit, folks are pondering why airfryers look so ugly. Twenty-one upvotes on this one, and it's a good question – who wants an appliance that looks like it belongs in a 70s sitcom kitchen?

And finally, over at the UX Design subreddit, there’s some lively discussion about corner radius. u/Outrageous_Duck3227 chimed in with: "Apple's been slipping on design lately... seems like they've lost the plot on consistency." Can't argue with that – it’s a fine line between style and usability.

That's what folks are buzzing about today! Lots to chew on, isn't there?

Chicago Camps is hosting UX Camp Winter on Saturday, February 21st. The event is online, so you can join from anywhere in the world. Catch presentations coming from people delivering UX work - out in the field - where it matters most.

Tickets are only thirteen dollars and fifty cents. Pay-What-You-Can tickets, and free passes available to anyone with a need.

Get tickets now at Chicago Camps dot org. And there's still room for additional speakers - submit your idea today!

Today, Josh LaMar reminded us that using AI isn't just about following trends; it's about solving real customer problems. And u/johanndacosta’s tote bag concept for Korean Air showed how a simple idea can spark meaningful discussions. Something to think about as we design with purpose. Thanks for tuning in — we'll catch you next time.

That's The Feed and The Thread for today. Keep designing with intention!