At Key Lime Interactive, we’re constantly scanning the horizon to find the visionaries who are not just adapting to the future of UX, but actively shaping it. We believe the biggest challenges often reveal the most profound opportunities for design leaders. In this new era, where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming every industry, the conversation is shifting from if to how we embed human-centered principles into this powerful technology.
We’re thrilled to introduce our next influential voice, a leader who embodies this proactive, strategic approach to innovation. She’s not just talking about the AI shift—she’s leading the charge to ensure it elevates the work of design teams and, most importantly, keeps the human experience squarely in the driver’s seat.
Meet Tiffany Whitener
As a design leader at the world’s largest automotive services and technology provider, I’m passionate about shaping the future of UX through AI-driven innovation and team empowerment.
Tiffany leads a UX team focused on elevating B2B and enterprise software across platforms. Her leadership extends beyond product design; she is dedicated to driving AI adoption through collaborative AI series, thought leadership, and AI literacy. She is actively exploring UX + AI workflows that enhance productivity, creativity, and cross-team collaboration, positioning her and her team at the cutting edge of technological evolution.
Q&A with Tiffany Whitener
Tiffany’s unique position at the intersection of enterprise software, automotive technology, and advanced AI gives her a powerful perspective on the necessary evolution of the UX craft. We dove into her thoughts on navigating this revolutionary period, the essential skills for modern UX teams, and how to embrace the power of AI responsibly.
What is one emerging trend in UX you’re most interested in right now, and why does it matter?
AI isn’t just emerging — it’s already here. I see it as the most significant technological shift to hit the design industry since the .com boom. Back then, I pivoted from print to digital to future-proof my career. Today, I’m embracing AI with the same urgency — not just to survive, but to help shape the future of AI and UX. AI must be used responsibly, with humans at the center. That’s how we ensure it actually enhances our work.
What is the biggest challenge or pain point you see UX teams face today?
There’s a growing fear that AI will eliminate jobs. But I see it differently. I always say, “AI isn’t here to replace us. It’s here to elevate us.” If we use AI as a tool — as a co-creator — it can help make us more efficient and free us up to be more strategic. Yes, roles will change. That’s why we must expand our skillset, so we will be empowered to work alongside the technology in an upgraded role. AI isn’t replacing jobs. It’s replacing tasks.
How do you see UX evolving over the next few years, and what advice would you give teams to stay ahead?
As AI reshapes workflows and products, UX professionals will be even more in demand. Someone has to guide the technology and hold it accountable. My advice to teams is: take your power back. Don’t assume defeat just because you don’t understand the technology. Instead, learn AI now. Use it in your personal life first — for something you enjoy. Once you feel comfortable, start using it professionally. The more you learn, the more you’ll see AI as a co-creator. You’ll also find your balance in using the technology.
I always say: “You can’t lead AI if you don’t learn AI.” But learning it is a choice. Doing nothing is also a choice. This shift is happening whether teams get on board or not. Some people thought the internet would go away, but it’s still here. AI is no different.
Our Takeaway: The Power of Choice
Tiffany’s message is clear: the future of UX hinges on proactive engagement with AI. The fear of being replaced is a distraction from the reality that our value as UX professionals is about to be amplified. By embracing AI as a co-creator and expanding our skillset, we secure our essential role as the guides who ensure this transformative technology remains human-centered, ethical, and valuable.
The AI-driven future is here, and it requires a new level of research expertise. With over 55% of our 2025 portfolio dedicated to AI Experience Research, Key Lime Interactive (KLI) is the recognized leader in bridging the gap between powerful technology and real human needs.
Don’t just launch an AI product—launch an experience.
Ready to lead the AI experience frontier?
Schedule your strategy call with a KLI expert today to discuss your next-generation research needs.
Contact us at sales@keylimeinteractive.com
Nominate Your Next UX Visionary
Who do you believe is shaping the future of UX? We’re eager to hear from you! Nominate individuals whose perspectives you’d love to see featured in an upcoming post. Please send your nominations, along with a brief explanation of why you think they’d be a great fit, to marketing@keylimeinteractive.com. We look forward to your suggestions!