Should designers learn to code? | Figma Blog (opens in new tab)
The article argues that learning to code is not a universal requirement for designers. Alex Cornell chose filmmaking and motion graphics instead because his engineering-heavy startup already had strong coding expertise, and that specialization later helped him launch Facebook Live. While coding can improve collaboration with engineers, designers should choose skills based on their interests, team needs, and career goals. ## Coding Is a Personal Choice - In 2007, deciding whether to code was viewed as an individual career choice rather than an expected designer milestone. - Cornell worked alongside highly experienced engineers, so learning to code would have duplicated an existing team strength. - He chose filmmaking, After Effects, and Premiere because he found motion graphics more engaging and useful. - Without modern prototyping tools, he used After Effects to demonstrate animated interface ideas. ## The Value of Learning Adjacent Skills - Cornell sometimes wonders what learning to code might have enabled, but does not fundamentally regret his decision. - His design career benefited from understanding how engineers think and how to translate design concepts into technical language. - At Facebook, coding is helpful but not essential to his role. - Specializing in a complementary discipline can make a team stronger than having everyone develop the same skills. ## The Boundary Between Design and Code Is Blurring - Modern tools such as Framer and Origami combine visual design with logic and interaction. - Designers increasingly work with systems that sit between traditional design and programming. - Because roles and tools overlap, the question is no longer a simple choice between coding and not coding. - There is no universally correct answer; the best path depends on the individual. ## Writing and Communication Matter - Cornell recommends writing and communication or presentation as especially valuable alternatives to coding. - Strong design or technical execution may have little impact if the designer cannot persuade others to support the idea. - Communication can take many forms: - Speaking in meetings - Presentations and slide decks - Films or demonstrations - Clear written explanations - These skills combine practical communication with emotional intelligence, helping designers influence decisions and move projects forward. - Cornell also cautions against leaving school too early because writing, communication, and interpersonal skills are harder to acquire independently than technical skills. Designers should learn to code when they are genuinely interested in it or when it serves their goals—not because it has become an expected rite of passage. Building complementary strengths, particularly in writing and communication, can be just as valuable.