Design is not just about aesthetics—it’s about solving the right problems, making informed decisions, and crafting meaningful experiences. My approach is research-informed, human-centered, and adaptable, ensuring that every solution is both functional and impactful. And to be honest, the process is messy and not necessarily a straight line.
I’m naturally curious, drawn to understanding human behavior and the deeper "whys" behind experiences. By embracing root cause analysis, I can uncover some of the invisible connections that shape user interactions. Context provides meaning, bridging insights that drive more empathetic and effective design solutions.
Every project is unique, shaped by countless variables. Designing for the human experience requires flexibility—balancing structure with adaptability. While processes typically follow phases like research, problem identification, ideation, and iteration, they all distill into a core cycle: Research, Plan, Execute. By integrating structured problem-solving with the complex realities of human behavior, I am able to work towards creating intuitive, accessible, and meaningful experiences.
For example, within a research phase: you would need to understand what you are researching or what you are seeking. Next you'll need to figure out or plan how you will gain understanding, then execute your research plan to get to your desired outcome of understanding.
Like many designers, my process follows familiar frameworks. The difference lies in how applied experiences shape our approaches, philosophies, and viewpoints.
My approach prioritizes forward momentum, influenced by my time in the military and the O.O.D.A. Loop—a decision-making framework emphasizing Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act. Originally designed for high-pressure environments, it serves as a reminder to keep moving forward toward the objective, adapting dynamically to changing conditions.In design, this mindset ensures that I continuously assess, adapt, and refine—balancing strategy with execution to drive meaningful outcomes
At its core, the O.O.D.A. Loop can be distilled into three guiding questions:
These questions serve as a foundation for decision-making and adaptability throughout a project. During pre-discovery, they help frame research activities, assess business needs, and outline a tentative project plan—a rolling checklist that evolves as new insights emerge.By consistently revisiting these questions at each phase, I ensure that design decisions are informed, intentional, and responsive to the evolving landscape of a project.
At the start of a project, I bring my experience and initial insights from briefs or discussions. Moving forward requires understanding what I don’t know and charting a path toward clarity.This is where experience meets adaptability—using past knowledge to navigate uncertainty, identify a starting point, and carve the way toward a testable, informed solution.
Not all insights will be valuable in defining a direction—this is where experience is tested and refined. The ability to distinguish between what drives meaningful progress and what is merely interesting is a critical skill.This discernment is where the true value of experience emerges—knowing what to prioritize, when to pivot, and how to stay focused on what truly impacts the outcome.
** Note: These design process graphics are a variation of one posted in Julie Zhuo's Medium article back in 2014, seen below. I wanted to take some time and expand on it a bit on the concept. Possibly apply it to projects that I worked on in the past as an examination. (It's still a WIP but I'll post a more polished version soon.) **
With 12 years in design and 16 years in the military, I’ve worked across diverse design processes, activities, and approaches. Nine years of my military experience involved the Army Design Methodology(ADM) and the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) —frameworks that, while distinct from product design, share core principles of strategic planning and tactical execution.
Both career paths have shaped my ability to adapt design methodologies to complex challenges, balancing big-picture strategy with practical implementation to drive meaningful outcomes.
