We've Annouced The First Speaker
We’re thrilled to introduce the first confirmed speaker for the ValueUX Conference — Vitaly Friedman, founder and editor-in-chief of Smashing Magazine. With a global following and a reputation for depth, clarity, and practicality, Vitaly has spent nearly 20 years helping designers and developers craft digital experiences that are not only aesthetically pleasing but deeply usable.
As a renowned speaker, author, and educator, Vitaly has led workshops and keynotes across the globe, addressing some of the most pressing challenges in modern interface design — from accessibility and responsive layouts to performance optimization and ethical design. He is known for his highly practical advice, grounded in research and real-world testing, with a refreshing focus on what actually works.
At ValueUX, Vitaly will explore what it takes to build interfaces that are not only functional but genuinely valuable. His talk will delve into the hidden layers of design thinking — how small decisions affect usability, how performance shapes perception, and how inclusivity isn't a feature but a foundation. Expect to leave with tools you can apply immediately, frameworks to guide your teams, and questions that will push your design practice further.
Vitaly’s session will not shy away from the hard truths of UX work — the trade-offs, the constraints, the client conversations. But it will also offer clarity, optimism, and inspiration for those seeking to do meaningful work in a fast-changing digital world. Whether you're designing products, systems, or services, this is a talk that will challenge your thinking and sharpen your approach.
This is just the beginning of what’s in store. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be unveiling more of our speaker lineup — each one chosen not for celebrity, but for substance. These are practitioners who care deeply about impact and aren’t afraid to dig into the complexity of delivering real value to users.
ValueUX isn’t just about hearing from the best — it’s about learning with them, connecting with peers, and leaving with a clearer sense of purpose in your work. Vitaly sets the tone perfectly, and we can’t wait for you to join the conversation.
