If you were off on a multi-day hike, weren’t sure of the weather and knew this was the one chance you’d have to go, would you head off with a coat from Temu or Patagonia? Quick wins have their place, don’t get us wrong, but in the age of AI we must remember that quality, craftsmanship and authenticity may just get us where we need to go.

For years now, our team at Voyage have been focused on creating the best websites, web platforms and apps we can, and part of that is being up to par with the latest and greatest technology solutions available. This meant that as soon as AI solutions became available we were testing and exploring what they could do, and how they could help us improve outcomes for clients.

Fast forward to 2025 and the tools are more proficient than ever, with the ability to pump out content, prototypes and frameworks in a matter of seconds. And yet, while the sheer abundance of this can be exciting and has certainly democratised creation, it’s a slippery slope to consider it a silver bullet that will hit the target every time.

Behind the scenes at Voyage, we’re honing in on what makes our websites, platforms and apps great, and are leaning into our years’ of experience you can’t buy or fake, and our insatiable appetite for the best work out there.

Quality versus quick wins: The growing divide

With the introduction of AI we’re increasingly seeing two main approaches to digital experiences or content: the quick win and the crafted outcome.

On one side, we have the temptation of instant gratification: AI-generated content, pre-built templates, and cookie-cutter solutions that promise immediate results. On the other, we have the deliberate path of craftsmanship: thoughtful design, intentional user journeys, and carefully curated experiences that take time to build.

While speed has its place (not every project warrants months of custom development), the digital world is becoming saturated with hasty solutions that prioritise rapid outcomes over substance. The result? A sea of sameness where truly exceptional work becomes increasingly rare, and increasingly valuable.

Let’s not forget, quick wins often come with hidden costs:

Lack of differentiation: When everyone uses the same tools and templates, products and experiences begin to blend together.

Shallow user connection: Prefabricated experiences rarely resonate on a deeper level with users.

Technical debt: Solutions built for speed rather than longevity often require more maintenance and overhaul in the long run.

Missed opportunities: The easiest path rarely leads to innovation or meaningful competitive advantage.

The enduring value of intentional, crafted experiences

Craftsmanship in digital experiences isn't about perfection, it's about intention. It is made manifest through thoughtful decision-making that prioritises the user's needs, emotions and overall journey. It's evident in the subtle interactions that make an interface feel intuitive, in the careful curation of content that respects the user's time and intelligence, and in the deliberate design choices that reflect a brand's authentic values.

Consider brands like Apple, where the products feel cohesive and considered across every touchpoint. Or Notion, with workspace that include thoughtfully designed features and interactions. These experiences didn't emerge from quick fixes or automated processes, they were crafted through iteration, reflection and a deep understanding of their users.

What characterises high-quality digital craftsmanship? For us, it consists of:

Intentional design: Every element serves a purpose and contributes to the overall experience.

Attention to detail: Small touches that might go unnoticed individually but collectively create a feeling of quality.

Thoughtful content: Words, images, and interactions that respect the user's intelligence and time.

Cohesive experience: A consistent feel across all touchpoints that builds trust and familiarity.

Human-centered approach: Prioritising real human needs over technical capabilities or trends.

Why we’re vouching for authenticity in an age of replication

It’s increasingly valid and valuable to seek true authenticity, and utilise AI tools aligned with that mission, not relying on these tools to find a unique voice. In fact, AI tools, that are expert in analysing and mimicking styles, urges us to dig deeper and uncover what we want to say, share and invite our users to experience.

True originality isn't about creating something completely novel, it's about bringing a unique perspective, purpose or vision to our work. The extra investment reaps rewards through several key ways, positively impacting the business and users.

In our view authenticity offers value by:

: Users have become increasingly sophisticated in detecting in-authenticity. They can sense when content has been mass-produced or when experiences have been hastily assembled. By contrast, authentic experiences build trust, they signal that real humans with genuine care have crafted something with the user in mind.

: The digital experiences that resonate most deeply are those that feel human. They have personality, perspective, and purpose. They don't just solve problems; they create moments of delight, understanding or inspiration. These emotional connections drive loyalty and advocacy in ways that purely functional experiences cannot.

: In markets saturated with similar offerings, authenticity helps brands and products stand out. It's much harder to replicate a genuine point of view or a uniquely crafted experience than it is to copy features or visual styles.

So how do we develop and apply good taste in this new era of web and app development?

Here are a few ways we can attune our attention and focus:

Curate influences: Be selective about what you consume and who you follow. Seek out examples of exceptional work across different fields and disciplines. Study the classics but stay open to emerging voices and perspectives.

Take time to reflect: Good taste requires stepping back from the constant flow of content and trends. Make time to reflect on what resonates with you and why. Which digital experiences have stayed with you, and what made them memorable?

Practice discernment: Not every new tool, trend or technique deserves your attention. Develop the confidence to say "no" to approaches that don't align with your values or vision, even if they promise quick results.

Seek meaningful feedback: Surround yourself with people who will provide honest, thoughtful feedback on your work. Look for those who can articulate why something works or doesn't beyond surface-level reactions.

Embrace iteration: Taste develops through trial and error. Be willing to experiment, learn from mistakes, and continuously refine your approach based on what you discover.

The rise of AI doesn't diminish the value of human taste, it amplifies it. As automation handles more routine tasks, our uniquely human capacities for judgment, empathy and craftsmanship become even more valuable.

The most compelling digital experiences of the future will likely combine AI's efficiency with human taste and sensibility. AI can help us explore possibilities, generate options, and handle repetitive tasks, but human judgment remains essential for determining what feels right, what serves users best and what expresses authentic values.

As we navigate this new phase of technology, I want to remember that the most memorable digital experiences aren't those that utilise the most advanced technology or follow the latest trends. They're the ones crafted with intention, authenticity and a genuine understanding of what resonates with people.

The digital age hasn't changed this fundamental truth: taste matters. It's what transforms functional products into beloved experiences, content into conversations, and transactions into relationships. In the race between quick wins and quality craftsmanship, the tasteful approach may take longer, but it could just be the one that stands the test of time.

The growing imperiative for taste in an AI-driven world

Taste in an AI-driven world: The need and value of craftsmanship and authenticity

Mobile user experiences continue to transform with the latest solutions, immersive technology and intelligent interfaces. While the race for innovation picks up pace, practical fundamentals remain essential, and interactivity reigns supreme. The difference between good and great mobile interfaces isn't about new technology - it's about practical application and solid principles.

Have you thought of the basics? More specifically: understanding real user needs, amping up interactivity, removing barriers and delivering genuine value.

The best personalisation often goes unnoticed by users. Rather than trying to demonstrate how much data we have or predict every possible action (which, let’s be honest, can be more creepy than helpful), good personalisation focuses on making common tasks more accessible and frequent actions more efficient for users.

Think about banking apps, or any consumer app for that matter, the successful ones understand your regular habits and put the most relevant information front and centre. They're not trying to be clever, they're just paying attention to how people actually use their services and adapting accordingly. In addition, these apps integrate natural interactivity and flourishes for an extra enjoyable or memorable experience. If you want to delight your users, design thoughtful and interactive moments. It’s not the way of the future, it’s what people want right now.

Seamless experiences no matter where you're tuning in

When it comes to cross-device experiences, seamlessness is essential. Users regularly start tasks on their mobile and finish them on their laptop, and they expect this transition to be fluid. This isn't just about synchronising data, it's about maintaining context across devices.

The key is understanding that when someone switches devices, they're continuing their journey, not starting a new one. This means preserving their progress, remembering their preferences, and making sure they don't have to repeat any steps.

Social features that have a clear purpose

Many apps include social features that don't serve a clear purpose. The most effective social integrations enhance the core experience in meaningful ways. Of the many consumer apps out there, fitness apps demonstrate this well - sharing achievements provides motivation and accountability that directly supports users' main goals.

What makes social features work is: strong practical benefits, like splitting bills in payment apps or sharing travel itineraries; integration that enhances the primary user experience; community elements that actively help users reach their goals; and simple, purposeful sharing options that add real value.

Performance optimisation isn't just about raw speed, it's about delivering the right experience at the right moment. Leading financial apps put this into play by providing instant access to recent transactions while accepting slightly longer load times for historical data.

: Prioritise key content that the user expects to interact with immediately. For example, if your app is a food tracker, ensure that the latest inputs or alerts load first, so users can access critical information with minimal delay.

Intelligently preload anticipated next steps

: Predict what users are likely to do next and preload relevant screens, content, or actions. To use the same example of financial apps, if someone is viewing their current balance, preload the ‘transaction history’ or ‘bill payment’ section, anticipating their next move. This keeps the app feeling responsive and initiative.

Enhance perceived performance through thoughtful design

: Perception is just as important as reality when it comes to speed. Animations, transitions, and visual cues can mask wait times, making users feel like the app is loading faster than it actually is. For example, loading spinners can be replaced with dynamic progress bars.

Identify and prioritise moments that require instant response

: Not all actions are created equal. Recognise when users expect an instant response, such as when submitting a payment or checking stock prices, and optimise those moments for near-instant feedback. Conversely, less urgent actions, like loading archived messages or older transactions, can afford to be delayed slightly without affecting the overall experience.

AI tools are transforming the design process, particularly in rapid prototyping. Tools like V0, Lovable and Replit are enabling designers to move from concept to testable prototype much faster than before. This isn't about replacing designers - it's about giving them better tools to explore ideas.

Turning written descriptions into initial designs

Generating multiple versions of components quickly

Creating responsive layouts automatically

Learning from patterns in successful interfaces

These tools work best when combined with human insight about user needs, context and meaningful implementation. Get in touch to find out more about how AI can be used to maximise mobile user experience.

To understand whether your efforts to maximise mobile user experience are successful, focus on metrics that indicate real user engagement and are focused implicitly on how the app is used:

Task completion rates: Are users achieving their goals?

Return usage patterns: Do they keep coming back?

Feature adoption: Are new capabilities being used?

Error recovery: Can users fix things when they go wrong?

Cross-device usage: How smoothly do users move between devices?

As the technologies that enable development of mobile apps improves in leaps and bounds, success in user experience remains rooted in understanding and serving user needs effectively. The most successful apps won't be the ones with the most features or the flashiest technology - they'll be the ones that solve real problems in ways that make sense for their users.

The tools we use will keep changing, but the fundamental goal stays the same: creating experiences that work well for users while supporting business objectives.

Understanding core principles of mobile user experience

Mobile user experience: Turning back to core principles that last the distance

Making its debut in 2016 as an open-source project on GitHub, Next.js has quickly become a known solution for front-end development. Today, many huge brands including Nike, OpenAI, Netflix and Spotify are all using Next.js as their JavaScript framework.

With so many options available, what makes Next.js stand out in front of the crowd, and how do we at Voyage use it to create high-performing, efficient and scalable React apps?

Next.js is a React-based JavaScript framework for building server-rendered or statically exported websites and applications. Because of its focus on React, it inherits all of the benefits that come with using React, such as a strong community support and a vast ecosystem of plugins and libraries, however, it moves beyond traditional React apps that can only render their content in the client-side browser, which leads us to the number one unique benefit of the solution.

Arguably the main benefit of Next.js is that it allows users to choose between two different modes of operation: server-side rendering (SSR) or static site generation (SSG).

With SSR, the page is rendered on the server and sent to the client as HTML. This process happens on each request, which means that if you have an e-commerce site, each user will see slightly different content depending on their interaction with the site, such as the items in their shopping cart.

This approach has a few advantages. First, because the content is rendered on the server, search engine crawlers can index content more easily, which can lead to better SEO. Second, SSR generally results in better performance because the HTML is already formed when the browser receives it - there's no need for additional JS to be downloaded and executed before the content is displayed. And third, because the content is rendered on the server, you can use backend data sources, such as databases, to pre-populate your frontend UI - something that's not possible with traditional single page applications (SPAs).

Static site generation for low-cost projects

The beauty of Next.js is that for websites that don’t rely heavily on dynamic data, SSG is still an option and can help to keep costs low.

With SSG, a website is generated at build time and all of the resulting files are deployed to a CDN (content delivery network). Because the content is generated ahead of time, there's no need for a backend server, making SSG an attractive option for sites that are low-cost or hosted on highly-scalable platforms such as lambda functions or Netlify Functions.

With this option you can also generate static versions of pages that would otherwise require server-side rendering, like an e-commerce product detail page, which can minimise overall build times and improve performance by reducing the amount of work that needs to be done at runtime.

One of the standout pros of Next.js is the potential to improve performance, thanks to built-in optimisations such as automatic code splitting and efficient asset loading. This not only accelerates load times but can also create a more responsive user experience. In addition, the framework's straightforward setup and intuitive file structure simplifies the development process, allowing developers to quickly initiate new projects and easily manage their code.

With its focus on fast loading speeds and search engine optimisation, Next.js can help increase conversion rates and drive sales. It also comes equipped with a variety of tools that to enhance marketing efforts, such as integration capabilities for social media and email campaigns. The extensive documentation available can further supports developers, making it easier to learn and implement the framework effectively.

Despite its advantages, Next.js does come with potential challenges. While the framework is designed for simplicity, it still requires a solid understanding of React, JavaScript, and web development principles, which can pose a learning curve for those new to these technologies. Additionally, Next.js relies on various external packages, like React and Webpack, which can introduce potential compatibility and security issues.

The performance optimisations offered by Next.js can at times lead to unnecessary overheads, particularly for smaller projects where such enhancements aren’t necessary. If opting for a serverless deployment, businesses need to also consider additional infrastructure requirements and associated costs. Finally, Next.js adheres to specific conventions and best practices, which can limit customisation options for certain projects, potentially restricting flexibility in development.

Choosing the right technology for your project can seem daunting, with several options available and each with their own set of benefits and potential challenges. At Voyage we’re passionate about understanding the tech, how it performs for different projects, and how we can get the most out of it.

While some clients come to us knowing what solutions they want to use, our discovery process is an important phase where we can drill down into what your overall aim is, and how we can maximise your tech investment to achieve the best results.

 for more about how we can bring your Next.js project to life.

Choosing Next.js for your next web frontend

Why Next.js could be a good choice for your next web frontend

If current advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are anything to go by, this year AI will fundamentally transform how websites, web applications and mobile apps are developed, deployed and maintained.

To hit the ground running, here’s a guide on what to consider when choosing your AI agency or digital studio for your next project.

The traditional model of working with a digital agency is being fundamentally changed thanks to AI. Previously, building a website or app, or delivering a new feature, might require a team of three engineers, a designer, a quality assurance specialist and a project manager, all working over several weeks. AI compresses both team size and delivery timelines. Various services and solutions can handle repetitive coding tasks, optimise performance and assist with quality assurance.

: AI speeds up processes, allowing teams to deliver faster.

: More efficient workflows and automation reduce the need for large teams.

: AI-enabled systems help streamline testing and enable rapid iteration.

Increased project scope within the same budget

: Thanks to AI automation, more complex features can be added without additional costs.

But this isn't simply about cost reduction, it's about value redistribution.

With AI accelerating the foundational aspects of software development we can now invest more resources in what truly matters: crafting exceptional user experiences and honing in on strategic business outcomes. Instead of the common take that AI will do away with our human experts, we're finding it’s allowing us to enhance our creativity and bring greater value to clients.

One critical decision business leaders face is whether to build AI capabilities in-house or partner with an AI agency. While some organisations may opt to explore internal AI implementation, partnering with a digital agency that has already integrated AI into their workflows offers several advantages:

Immediate access to optimised AI development processes

: You can hit the ground running without the need to build out AI infrastructure.

No learning curve or implementation delays

: Avoid the time-consuming process of learning AI tools and methodologies from scratch.

: Established agencies have refined their processes over time, reducing the risk of costly errors.

Scalable expertise without internal hiring

: Instead of hiring and training an internal team, you gain access to top-tier talent with the right expertise.

Working with an agency means you can focus on your core business while leaving the AI-powered development to experts who already have the tools and knowledge to execute it efficiently.

At first glance, AI’s efficiency gains might suggest a focus on speed over quality. However, in the hands of the right agency this won't be the case. With AI handling many of the routine and repetitive tasks in web and app development, there can be more time and energy to devote to the finer details of the project.

While this differs for each project, it can include:

: With less time spent on manual tasks, designers can focus on creating visually stunning, high-quality experiences.

: AI allows for faster performance analysis and optimisation, ensuring the app or website runs smoothly and quickly.

: AI tools can help identify accessibility issues and automatically suggest improvements, making your digital products more inclusive.

: With AI-powered insights into user behaviour, agencies can refine the UX for maximum impact.

: AI can also continuously scan for security vulnerabilities, ensuring that your digital product is always secure.

In essence, AI doesn’t just accelerate development, it also elevates it by allowing more focus on the craft of the product.

Making projects smarter: The rise of AI Agents

AI’s influence extends beyond the development process itself. AI agents are now an integral part of the entire project lifecycle, changing how digital transformation projects are planned, executed and maintained.

The discovery phase, once reliant on long meetings and documentation, can now be enhanced with AI agents. During this phase these tools can:

Analyse existing digital assets and competitor landscapes

: AI can assess your current website or app, along with your competitors, to provide valuable insights.

Generate comprehensive technical specifications

: Instead of waiting for a human team to draft documents, AI can automatically generate technical specifications based on requirements.

: AI can detect potential bottlenecks before development even begins, allowing for better preparation.

: With AI’s ability to analyse past projects and workflows, it can suggest more accurate timelines and resource allocations.

Once development begins, AI agents can act as collaborators, helping to:

: AI tools can automate code generation and even optimise existing code for better performance.

Conduct real-time code reviews and quality assurance

: AI-powered tools can review code for errors, improving the quality and reducing human oversight.

: Continuous testing and automated bug tracking help ensure a smooth development process.

: AI can automate the creation and updating of documentation, ensuring it's always current and accurate.

One of the often forgotten but very exciting potential implementations of AI comes post-launch, as these systems enable continuous optimisation and maintenance:

Continuous performance monitoring and optimisation

: AI can monitor performance in real-time and suggest improvements based on data.

Automated security vulnerability detection

: AI can automatically identify and patch security vulnerabilities, ensuring your site or app remains safe.

: AI can track user behaviour, offering insights into how to improve features or content based on actual usage.

: AI can dynamically adjust content based on user preferences, providing a more personalised experience.

AI is redefining what it means to partner with a web and app development company or digital agency. Rather than simply outsourcing development hours, you’re investing in a hybrid team - one that combines human expertise with AI capabilities.

When done right, this partnership can offer several key benefits:

: AI-driven processes ensure a smoother workflow and fewer surprises.

: With AI tools speeding up development and testing, you can launch products quicker.

: AI helps maintain consistency and quality, reducing the likelihood of bugs and errors.

: With repetitive tasks automated, there’s more room for creative and innovative solutions.

As we move further into 2025, without a doubt AI's role in software development and digital transformation will continue to develop.

 will see AI systems capable of co-managing entire development workflows, including self-optimising websites that evolve based on user interactions and automated content generation for faster, more flexible updates.

 will enable AI-powered user experience customisation, delivering tailored experiences in real-time, along with predictive user journey optimisation to ensure an easy path for each visitor.

, allowing seamless connectivity with enterprise systems to enable real-time data syncing and more powerful, data-driven reporting.

Choosing the right AI agency or digital studio for your project is a critical decision.

Here are some essential questions to ask:

Does the agency have proven AI integration in their workflow?

 Look for agencies that have successfully implemented AI in their previous projects.

Can they demonstrate tangible efficiency gains?

 Ask for examples of how AI has reduced development time and costs in past projects.

Do they strike the right balance between automation and human expertise?

 Ensure they don’t rely solely on AI but combine it with skilled professionals.

 Make sure they have strong processes in place for ensuring the quality and security of your product.

The future of web and app development is increasingly driven by AI. It’s not just about faster development, it's about reimagining what's possible in creating digital experiences on the web and apps. The most successful companies in 2025 will be those that understand AI not as a replacement for human talent, but as an amplifier of it.

The AI revolution in website development for New Zealand leaders

The AI revolution in website development: What New Zealand leaders need to know

As competition in the digital world heats up and AI solutions empower seeming quick wins, it’s important to ask the right questions up front. If not, what may seem like a huge saving could only end up costing more in the long run.

When a digital agency or studio promises to deliver a fully functional, lead-generating website in a matter of weeks using AI tools, it's natural to feel excited. And it’s true that the emergence of AI tools including drag-and-drop builders, AI-generated content and template-based design systems, can, technically speaking, condense months of strategic work into much shorter time frames. And yet, in our view, this excitement should be tempered with careful consideration.

Just as you would question a fitness trainer promising to get you your dream body in a month, you should approach ultra-quick website promises with healthy skepticism. The foundation of your digital presence deserves the same level of scrutiny as the foundation of physical health. While AI innovations have their place, as the old adage goes, if something sounds too good to be true it probably is.

Here are 10 questions to help uncover hidden costs that might be lurking beneath the surface of big promises and attractive offers.

Top 10 questions to ask before committing to an accelerated website redesign

1. What level of strategic thinking can I expect in the timeline?

In the traditional website development process the discovery phase can take weeks. Agency teams conduct user research, analyse competitors, map customer journeys and develop content strategies. While AI can reduce the manual labour of these tasks, there's only so much you can reduce without cutting corners.

More specific questions or talking points could include:

How will you understand my business, customers and industry well enough in the reduced timeline?

What specific strategic deliverables will I receive?

How much of the strategy will be AI-generated versus human-crafted?

Will we conduct genuine user research, or use AI to consider industry trends?

How will you incorporate my business goals into the strategy?

 A website built without proper discovery sessions may look good but fail to perform. You might end up with a site that doesn't convert visitors, doesn't align with your sales process, or doesn't effectively communicate your unique value proposition.

2. How customised will my website truly be?

AI excels at creating variations on established patterns. What it cannot easily do is understand the nuances that make your business unique, and translate those into completely custom designs and experiences.

Are you using templates that are customised, or building custom designs?

How many unique page templates will be designed specifically for my business?

Can you show me examples of AI-assisted designs you've created that don't look like templates?

What parts of the design process will involve human designers, and what parts will be AI-generated?

How will you ensure my brand identity is properly reflected in the design?

 Template-based websites often struggle to differentiate businesses from their competitors. You might save time upfront but lose opportunities to stand out in your market.

3. Who will create the content, and how will it reflect my brand voice?

AI content generation tools such as ChatGPT can produce serviceable copy quickly and may be useful for the likes of SEO. However, this content lacks the nuanced understanding of your brand voice, industry-specific knowledge and emotional intelligence needed to be compelling.

When it comes to site content, you can ask:

How much of my website content will be AI-generated?

What processes are in place to ensure AI-generated content accurately reflects our brand voice?

Will human writers review and refine AI-generated content?

How will you incorporate my company's unique expertise and perspectives?

What happens if the AI-generated content misses the mark?

 Generic, AI-generated content can undermine your brand's credibility and fail to connect with your audience. The cost of rewriting low-quality content after launch typically exceeds the cost of doing it right the first time.

4. How maintainable will the website be for my team?

AI-accelerated builds sometimes sacrifice backend usability for frontend speed. The best websites are fully functional for both visitors to the site and the management team behind the scenes.

To ensure the site is easy to maintain, you may ask:

What CMS will power the website, and how user-friendly is it?

Latest updates, thinking and insights from the team at Voyage

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