Background

I started being interested in design during my freshman year of high school when I started taking design classes that then turned into me taking them every semester all four years. I then studied Computer Graphics at Purdue University with a minor in Psychology where I focused on animation and motion graphics. With psychology I learned a lot about human development and limitations that we all have.

I started my career as a 3D artist, but that was quickly followed by me transitioning into design, starting in edTech, because I wanted to make things that people found useful, beyond just for entertainment.

Design Philosophy

I believe design is finding the common ground between the user goals and the business objectives with a holistic view that looks at as much information as possible. A designers goal is to make as informed of a decision as possible within the contraints(time and/or budget) given. I very much believe in the scientific method where doing research before forming a hypothesis is important so that the research isn't just validating bias. I also believe it's important to be creative and experiment to learn as much as possible, otherwise we run the risk of everything looking the same and losing their beauty.

I approach every project with the understanding that each will be unique but believe there are fundamental guidelines that can provide better outcomes and efficiency. I always begin by investigating the problem to gain context of who the users are, what their goals and needs might be, and how they're currently accomplishing those goals. I also work with stakeholders to understand the business goals and have a clear understanding of how success will be measured. After that I use that information to strategize an approach to come up with various solutions where each can be properly tested to validate the assumptions made prior.

CliftonStrengths

1. Futuristic

People with strong Futuristic talents love to peer over the horizon. They are fascinated by the future. They anticipate and imagine in detail what tomorrow could or should be. They usually see the future positively. While the details of the picture will depend on their other strengths and interests — a better product, a better team, a better life, or a better world — it will always be inspirational to them. This vision energizes themselves and others. They can paint a picture of the future that raises the sights and spirits of others.

2. Focus

People with strong Focus talents prioritize and then take action. They set goals. These goals serve as their compass, helping them determine priorities and make alterations when needed to get back on course. Their Focus is powerful because it forces them to filter; they instinctively evaluate each action before taking it to determine whether it will help them reach their goal. In the end, strong Focus talents push them to be efficient. They are extremely valuable team members because their single-mindedness enhances the speed and quality of their performance and keeps the team on track.

3. Command

People with strong Command talents naturally take charge. They see what needs to be done, and they are willing to speak up. They are not frightened by confrontation; rather, they understand that confrontation is the first step toward resolution. They need things to be clear among people and will challenge others to be realistic and honest. Their talent pushes them to take risks. At times, those with strong Command talents may intimidate others. And while some may resent this talent, others often willingly hand them the reins. People are drawn toward those who take a stand and are willing to lead.

4. Strategic

People with strong Strategic talents have the ability to sort through the clutter and find the best route. This is not a skill that can be taught. It is a distinct way of thinking — a special perspective on the world at large. This outlook allows them to see patterns where others simply see complexity. Mindful of these patterns, they are able to envision alternative scenarios, always asking, “What if this happened?” This recurring question helps them see, plan, and prepare for future situations. They see a way when others assume there is no way. Armed with this strategy, they strike forward.

5. Learner

People with strong Learner talents constantly strive to learn and improve. The process of learning is as important to them as the knowledge they gain. Learners are energized by the steady and deliberate journey from ignorance to competence. They are excited by the thrill of learning new facts, beginning a new subject, and mastering an important skill. Learning builds their confidence. Having Learner as a dominant theme does not necessarily motivate someone to become a subject matter expert or strive for the respect that accompanies earning a professional or academic credential. The outcome of learning is less significant than “getting there.”