Governance Models for AI-Driven Design Automation: Ensuring Human-Centered Decision Authority in UX and Product Design

Abstract

The integration of artificial intelligence into user experience (UX) and product design workflows has fundamentally transformed how designers approach layout generation, prototyping, and design system management. While AI-assisted tools promise increased efficiency and novel creative possibilities, they simultaneously raise critical questions about decision authority, creative control, and the preservation of human-centered design principles. This paper examines governance models for AI-driven design automation, proposing frameworks that balance algorithmic efficiency with human oversight. Drawing from design theory, human-computer interaction research, and organizational governance literature, this study articulates structured governance rules that ensure AI serves as an augmentative tool rather than a replacement for human judgment. The proposed models emphasize transparency, accountability, and the maintenance of designer agency while leveraging AI's computational capabilities. Findings suggest that effective governance requires multi-layered decision frameworks, clear delineation of human versus machine responsibilities, and continuous evaluation mechanisms. This research contributes to the growing discourse on responsible AI deployment in creative industries and provides practical guidance for UX practitioners and organizations implementing AI-assisted design tools.