Human-centered

Empathy

Psychology

Emphasizing empathy allows design strategists to uncover unmet needs and test for desirability to ensure that businesses are solving for the right pain-points and creating solutions that consumers will pay for (or more for)

Systems thinking

Problem solving is not a linear process. The problem doesn’t start at point A and turn into a solution at point B - it’s just not that simple and treating it as such only creates small band-aids that cover up the problem and fail to address the actual cause. Instead, I frame my process more cyclically, acknowledge that everything works within a system, and I incorporate new information, testing, and feedback to instill resiliency and prepare for pivots at every step of my process.

incorporate a broader view of the systems we are a part of

Futures thinking

Traditionally, when a problem is identified today, the problem-solving process starts tomorrow. After ideation, prototyping, and testing, the problem has either evolved, already been solved by someone else, or has been replaced by a new problem. I incorporate principles of strategic foresight and speculative design to help eliminate this cycle and aim to create opportunities for more preferable futures.

sustain value in order to obtain long-term survival and growth

I prioritize optimism.

I bring a framework of optimism to every project. Pessimism and fear only spark momentary energy and in the long run, lead to denial and guilt; resulting in apathy. In comparison, working with optimism provokes longterm momentum. The creation of experiences that simulate a positive present or visualize an optimistic future have a longer lasting effect in a user’s mind and a higher likelihood to produce engagement, motivation, specific behaviors, or a desired change.