What I Do
I help define the problem space by collecting user stories and business needs. I then use those insights to create compelling solutions that meet people’s needs.
How I Do It
I work with stakeholders to identify the scope of the project and any important business needs. After agreeing on a plan of action, I conduct user research, to learn about who I am designing for. Once I’ve gathered enough information, I then synthesize what I learned using pattern-finding methods, and from the patterns that emerge, I define design constraints. I use those constraints to iteratively design solutions that meet people’s needs, all while gathering feedback from stakeholders and conducting user testing to see how people respond. Once a design has been finalized, I work with visual designers and engineers to bring the project to a successful conclusion.
My Personal Touch
Empathy is a powerful tool for design, and a strong motivator in my work. I strive to build empathy with users early and often, to remain connected to their needs, their struggles, and their desires.
UX design is as much a collaborative effort as it is a personal creative endeavor. As such, I prioritize keeping all parties involved and informed throughout each stage of the design process. I am a strong proponent of collaborative brainstorming, and I try to encourage wild ideas.
A Brief Bio
I am a graduate of the Human-Computer Interaction Institute at Carnegie Mellon University, receiving my Masters in Human-Computer Interaction in 2013. Prior to attending CMU, I graduated from Juniata College with a BS in User-Centered Informatics (a major of my creation) in 2012. My professional career began at FactSet Research Systems, Inc., where I worked as a Junior Interaction Designer from 2013 to 2014. I then pursued a position as a User Experience Designer at Workiva, Inc. from 2015 to 2019. After that, I worked as an Interaction Designer at Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield from 2020 to 2021, and then as a User Experience Designer at CFA Institute for the first half of 2022.
Outside of my business life, I write and produce music, and enjoy traveling to different countries.