In UX Design, there are many well-known pioneers. Jesse James Garrett and Steven Krug are among my favorites. Seeing UX Design through their eyes changed my perspective.
A book by Mr. Garrett titled "The Elements of User Experience: A Conceptual Model of User-Centered Design" changed the way I view UX Design. Garrett clearly outlines his methods and procedures for UX projects in this excellent book. I have utilized his methods to structure my process, and I have experienced tremendous time savings and added value as a result. My approach has been transformed subsequently. Mr. Garrett's social media outlets, videos, and publications continue to attract my attention.
In 2002, I discovered Steve Krug. This curious book titled "Don't make me think." caught my eye and I picked it up. I found the book to be very insightful. I found Krug's approach to user testing to be refreshing, and very streamlined. Furthermore, his attention to psychology's role in interaction design was groundbreaking at the time.