These are my go-to approaches for quality work

These are my go-to approaches for quality work

John Holt

Most all of my projects follow basic design guidelines from WCAG, which covers a lot of issues for all users. Clear text, correct contrast, etc. is key; the interface should not compete with the task flow or the feedback from the system. You will notice in my portfolio that containers/components are modular/expandable/scalable, they are meant to be grouped, change and guide – not to simply decorate. Text and data output should be primary, CTAs are next.

I approach interfaces like tools – at their core apps should prioritize utility that’s delightful in its efficacy and ease, because we have validated our design hypotheses and confirmed usability heuristics have been satisfied.

I follow a standard hierarchy of visual elements – and within the constraints of best practices we can innovate and get real Zen – working within a framework, there is a surprising amount of freedom to be creative.

The tricky parts are covered by standardized heuristics. Or, at least I hope I’m establishing some industry standards – we need them. We don’t want to innovate ourselves into bad usability or rely too heavily on support docs. No training manuals please on how to use an app – even an infotip is pushing it for me.

A good designer builds trust with users by not jerking them around on the site (meaning lots of clicking, squinting and mystery meat). I prefer to engage developers with well researched concise solutions user want, asking them to call APIs and automate as much as possible, so the user is not having to do the work that development teams can easily implement. In return, I’ll verify that we are building the correct application in the most efficient way.

 

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About My Product Design Background

1. What made you go into UX Design?
I transitioned into UX Design from graphic design and editorial work, recognizing the growing demand for digital solutions and user-centered design. My early experience with Greater Diversity News, where I led the transition from print to web, sparked my interest in creating intuitive and impactful digital experiences.2. What is your experience working with developers on a team?
I have extensive experience collaborating with developers, including React and Angular teams, to refine UX flows and features. I’ve facilitated strategic discussions, provided annotated wireframes, and worked iteratively to align designs with technical requirements, significantly boosting design integrity and usability.3. What project are you most proud of and why?
I’m most proud of work at American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), where I led the end-to-end UX design process for two SaaS applications in the maritime industry. I dove deep into strategic user research, developed modular design systems, and created high-fidelity prototypes that improved data insights for faster, more accurate decisions by vessel operators.4. Please explain your years of experience specific to UX/UI Design.
I have over 15 years of experience in UX/UI Design, 10 years as a digital product designer – handling all aspects from UX strategy to refinements with developers. I started as a UX Researcher at AT&T Mobility in 2010.
5. What are your strengths as a designer?
My strengths include conducting strategic user research, creating modular design systems, facilitating design workshops, and collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams. I excel in complex iterative Figma design prototyping, user testing, and aligning designs with business and user requirements.

6. Tell us about a time you did first-party user research to gain insight on a user problem.
At American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), I conducted first-party user research by collaborating with maritime integrity management experts and operators. I performed early discovery research with subject matter experts and surveyors to understand vessel integrity and maintenance challenges, which informed the UX design strategy for SaaS applications. I had no prior maritime experience.

7. What are your career goals?
I aim to continue advancing in UX/UI design and advocate for equal access to technology. Today, most companies over-estimate people’s technical skills; lots are being left behind, lots of revenue is being left there too. I’m focusing on creating impactful digital solutions that improve user experiences digitally and in life as well. I’m currently pursuing an MBA in Information Technology Management to enhance my strategic and technical expertise in product design and development leadership.

 

Soft UI

Center.me Calm UI Theme. Click to enlarge