How do you build a brand-new UX team at a time when the demands being leveled at designers are changing? There are some basic principles that you should always follow.

First hire a leader, a director of UX. This key hire can be a hands-on designer, but they should have the experience to set the strategy and build the team.

Second, build a workplace culture that acknowledges and supports a best-in-class user experience.  Create the expectation that development and marketing align with incorporating UX  as an equal partner.

Finally, build the team. UX is not a one person show. The director you hire will know what skills will be needed immediately and create a longterm hiring plan that will meet the company’s user experience objectives.