UI Design Tools at Google, Facebook, and Amazon: Macs, PCs, and Industry Standards
When it comes to the tools utilized by UI designers at tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Amazon, a myriad of software and devices are employed. This article delves into the specific tools and hardware that these renowned companies use, based on interviews and observations from seasoned professionals in the field.
Google: Flexibility and Innovation
At Google, there is a notable flexibility in the choice of devices and design software. According to a senior designer, employees are free to use whatever works best for them, whether it be a Mac or a PC. However, Sketch and Photoshop/Illustrator are specifically mentioned as the most commonly used tools.
The senior designer highlighted that good quality hardware is the key, with standard issue hardware at Google being a souped-up Macbook Pro. Google also offers Material Design assets for both Adobe Illustrator and Sketch, suggesting a growing preference for Sketch among the design community at Google.
Sketch is known for its growing popularity, with a significant number of designers at Google opting for it. The decision to switch to Sketch may be influenced by its growing presence within the Material Design ecosystem, as well as its user-friendly interface and powerful features.
Facebook: A Mac-dominated Landscape
Facebook's design team predominantly uses Macs, although there is an open option to use PCs. According to designer accounts, the primary tools used at Facebook are Photoshop and Illustrator. Despite these software being the most popular, Facebook also uses a tool called Quartz Composer with an add-on called Origami. This tool is particularly powerful for interaction designs, such as animations and transitions, but it has a steep learning curve.
During the author's tenure at Facebook (until April 2014), Sketch was being explored but had not yet become the norm. It's possible that the adoption of Sketch has increased over time, given the growing popularity of Sketch across various design communities.
Amazon: Unknowns and Industry Standards
For Amazon, the specific tools and hardware used by UI designers are not well-documented. However, it is reasonable to assume that they follow industry standards, as evidenced by the fact that most companies list software such as Photoshop and Illustrator as the industry norm. Hardware choice is less impactful as long as the designers are provided with a good, strong computer of either brand.
Conclusion: The Evolution of UI Design Tools
The landscape of UI design tools at Google, Facebook, and Amazon highlights the evolving nature of the industry. While there has been a growing preference for Sketch at Google, with Macs being the dominant choice, Facebook continues to use Macs with a mix of traditional design tools. For Amazon, the tools and hardware remain largely undetermined.
Regardless of the specific tools and hardware used, it is clear that the key to successful UI design lies in the quality of the device and the proficiency of the designer. Industry standards like Photoshop and Illustrator remain ubiquitous, but tools like Sketch and Macs are gaining prominence among design professionals.