In this episode of Edge Cases, we tackle three hot topics in the design world: the crucial importance of accessibility in design, the controversial trend of "design engineers", and the mixed reactions to Figma's major UI overhaul. Join us for an insightful discussion on balancing aesthetics with functionality, the challenges of adapting to software updates, and the evolving role of designers in tech. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to design, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the current state and future of the field. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:13 Understanding Accessibility in Design 05:17 The Challenges of Universal Accessibility 06:59 Balancing Inclusivity and Aesthetics 16:07 Best Practices for Accessibility 25:30 The Complexity of Designing for Accessibility 28:11 Transition to Design Engineering Discussion 30:15 The Role of Designers vs Developers 32:04 The Concept of Design Engineers 34:44 Expectations of Designers in the Industry 36:08 The Pressure to Diversify Skills 39:30 Navigating Trends in Design and Engineering 40:42 The Impact of AI on Design Roles 41:57 Figma's New UI: User Experience Challenges 47:12 Feedback and Adaptation in Design Tools Keywords accessibility, design, user experience, Figma, design engineers, coding, inclusive design, UI updates, best practices, AI in design