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The Hands vs. the Brains » UIE Brain Sparks

by | Mar 13, 2012 | Web Design

Home / Web Design / The Hands vs. the Brains » UIE Brain Sparks
Handwork and Brainwork

Innies and outies have a lot in common. They share the need to distinguish whether a project is a handwork or brainwork.

Handwork occurs when the hiring team knows what they want but lacks the correct number of hands to complete it. Let’s say the team needs new screens designed. They know what the screens are and how they should work. They’ve built many screens successfully before, so knowing what to do is not a problem.

The problem is that they don’t have enough hands to do the job. All of their internal resources are otherwise occupied, thereby stalling the screen-production piece of the project. In this case, they hire a contractor who will come in and help them crank out more screens. This is handwork.

But there’s another way the project could go wrong. What if our hypothetical team doesn’t know what the screens are or how they should work? What if they lack experience building screens and lack the confidence and skills to get started efficiently?

In this case, they need someone to help them devise a strategy for identifying which screens need work and how to tackle them. Once that strategy is set and they understand what the project needs to be finished, they may have all the necessary resources internal to the team.

This is when they hire an outside consultant who will bring in expertise and skills the team doesn’t otherwise have. This we call brainwork.

Via The Hands vs. the Brains » UIE Brain Sparks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “The Hands vs. The Brains” mean in the context of web design?
It refers to the contrast between execution (the hands—designers/developers who build) and strategy (the brains—those who define the purpose, goals, and user experience).
Why is strategy important before starting a design or development project?
Without strategy, web projects often lack direction and fail to align with business goals. A well-defined strategy ensures that every element serves a purpose.
Who are the “brains” in a web project team?
The “brains” typically include UX designers, strategists, marketing leads, and stakeholders who define goals, user needs, and the overall direction of the project.
Can designers and developers also be strategic thinkers?
Absolutely. While traditionally seen as “hands,” many modern designers and developers contribute strategic insights based on user behavior, data, and past experience.
What is UIE Brain Sparks?
UIE Brain Sparks is a thought-leadership series or concept focused on igniting deeper thinking about usability, user experience, and strategic design decisions.
How can web teams ensure a balance between strategy and execution?
Start projects with clear goals, involve both strategists and builders early on, maintain open communication, and align design decisions with measurable outcomes.
What happens when teams focus only on execution?
Without strategy, teams may build attractive but ineffective websites that don’t support user needs or business objectives, leading to poor ROI.
Is strategic planning only necessary for large web projects?
No. Even small websites benefit from clear goals and user-centered thinking. Strategic planning helps ensure every project is purposeful and efficient.
How can agencies foster better collaboration between “hands” and “brains”?
Encourage cross-functional meetings, align KPIs, invite feedback early, and create workflows where strategic and creative insights are shared continuously.
What’s the main takeaway from the “hands vs. brains” concept?
Successful websites require both execution and intention. A balance between building and thinking ensures that design serves both users and business goals effectively.

Douglas Goddard* (134)

Douglas is the visionary behind “PX Media,” a beacon of creativity and excellence in marketing for over two decades. Within his illustrious career, Douglas has not only mastered the art of web design, online marketing, and photography. Still, he has also become a pivotal figure in transforming visions into digital realities. His educational journey through renowned institutions, where he delved into fine art and design, laid the foundation for his exceptional skill set. Beyond his technical prowess, Douglas is celebrated for his unwavering honesty, trustworthiness, and educational approach that empowers clients and peers alike.