Tools are Means


If tools are everything, the best writer would be the one who has the best pen. Likewise the best photographer would be the one who has the best camera in the world, and so on.

It’s not the tool that makes the creative man. It’s knowing the subject fundamentals, understanding objectives, researching, deep thinking on problems, exploring ideas and generating distinctive solutions, is what makes a creative person and master of your craft.

The same applies for UX Design. It’s disturbing to see an excessive emphasis on Figma and other tools in our industry. Right from bootcamps to job descriptions, one can notice the Figma hype. Too much importance on tooling and less on thinking leads to hiring dispensable talent, and in turn generates mediocre products and brands. (Not good for talent as well as businesses)

Tools are only a means to an end.

Customers don't pay for the tools. They pay for the value derived from your craft. They don't care what tools you use. All they care about is the end product.

This perspective is absolutely important for creative professionals. One should just work with what you have. If you're a writer, filmmaker, musician, or whatever, you need to focus on leveraging what you have at your disposal and not wait for the best resources to take action and move ahead in your career.

If tools alone can make you skillful, then the tool has more value than what you add. Tools are required and there's no question about it. The point is one should not get obsessed about the tool. (It's easy to get lost in figuring out tools and investing in many as the tool companies are super smart in selling you irrelevant stuff and drowning in your their systems)

After a certain point, it's all diminishing returns. 

For example, if you want to be a filmmaker and want the best camera, then I highly doubt you're passionate about making the film. You're probably a tech enthusiast. Think about it.

Get the basic tools, but focus your creative energy on your craft.

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