Hi Viviana, how did you end up working within UX?
I have a background in industrial design, and after several years designing and developing physical products I became aware of how the industry is rapidly evolving and moving towards the development of more digitized and connected products. This awareness motivated me to broader my skills in order to design across disciplines where the industrial design meets digital design.
What methods and tools do you use?
The methods and tools I use vary depending on the design phase and the project scope. But in general, during the early phases where the aim is to empathise with the users and gather data I rely on methods such as interviews, surveys and observations. When it comes to prototyping and wireframing tools, I use Adobe Illustrator, and XD, but lately I have been exploring other tools such as Figma and InVision.
What do you enjoy most about being a UX designer?
I enjoy the interaction with users and stakeholders during the design phase, it is a great learning experience that allows me to create solutions based on people’s real needs. Another aspect that I enjoy about being a UX designer is knowing that at the end of the day the result of my work will somehow positively impact the everyday life of a user and also creates business value for the client.
Tell us about your experience at Avalon?
My journey at Avalon started in September last year, since then,I have collaborated in different in-house projects that match perfectly my professional development goals. One aspect that I value about Avalon’ work culture is that everyone is always willing to share their knowledge and ideas, creating a workplace that fosters creativity and innovation.
Hi Vincent, how did you end up working within UX?
I’ve spent a majority of my career within universities doing graduate research on Human Computer Interaction Design, arriving there via undergraduate degrees in Philosophy and Religious Studies. I see this field as a perfect marriage between my love for creating, art, design, and handcrafts, and my love for critical thinking, theory, technology, and science.
What methods and tools do you use?
I really like doing semi-structured interviews, participant observation studies, and anything that gets me close to the people I’m designing for. Sketching, writing scenarios, rapid prototyping, animating and video editing are always helpful in generating and communicating ideas and concepts based on my insights. As far as software tools are concerned, I frequently use Adobe Illustrator and XD, a mind-mapping software called xmind, and really whatever tool is most appropriate for the job. I also enjoy making use of micro-controllers for physical prototyping when I get the chance.
What do you enjoy most about being a UX designer?
I enjoy how it allows me to explore and design for various aspects of the human experience. Design is a human centered activity, and thus requires a thorough and specific understanding of the human experience. My fascination with and drive to design is supported by my curiosity in understanding the unstated premises, assumptions, and fundamental characteristics that various situations often obscure from view, but that can be key to better design.
Tell us about your experience at Avalon?
Although I’ve only been at Avalon since last April, I’ve already had the opportunity to be involved with many in-house and client projects. I really enjoy the collaborative spirit of the company and feel encouraged to propose new ideas and participate in projects that I feel I can contribute to. It really feels like a team!