Interview with Ziyu Ye for Save Exit Glacier

I am a Product Designer at C3 AI, a global enterprise AI company that delivers machine learning applications to clients around the world.

My daily responsibilities include conducting user interviews to gather requirements, creating low-fidelity wireframes for stakeholder alignment and rapid iteration, and developing high-fidelity workflows for engineers to implement. My role is crucial in ensuring that user needs are addressed through thoughtful and effective design solutions.

Design involves solving real-world problems in the most effective, elegant, and feasible manner. It's not merely about aesthetics or self-expression; it's about assisting others in reaching their goals and improving their experiences.

My preferred type of design is UX design because it lies at the crossroads of design and technology. It enables me to blend creativity with practical problem-solving to develop user-centered solutions that significantly impact people's lives.

A good design is always centered on the user, stemming from a profound understanding of their needs. It is intuitive, functional, and visually appealing, effectively addressing the problem it was created to solve.

My design style is clean, user-centered, and functional. I adhere to a "less is more" philosophy, steering clear of unnecessary complexity. I prioritize understanding user needs and feedback, ensuring my designs are intuitive and easy to use.

My designs address real problems by combining beauty with practicality. I strive for a visually pleasing experience while maintaining simplicity and functionality. Additionally, my designs are adaptable across various contexts and devices, providing a seamless user experience. Overall, my style integrates minimalism, practicality, and elegance to create meaningful user experiences.

My design process starts with extensive research and understanding user needs through interviews and data analysis. I then brainstorm and sketch initial concepts, creating low-fidelity wireframes for rapid iteration and stakeholder feedback.

Once ideas are refined, I develop high-fidelity prototypes and conduct user testing to pinpoint areas for improvement. After launch, I gather feedback and evaluate the design's effectiveness, making necessary adjustments. This iterative, user-centric approach ensures the final product effectively meets user needs and addresses the intended problem.

My cultural background has undoubtedly shaped my understanding of the world and my approach to problem-solving. The values and perspectives from my heritage influence my design process, enabling me to create solutions that are both innovative and culturally sensitive.

Receiving this award is a substantial validation of my work and creativity, bolstering my confidence to continue pursuing my passion projects. It also underscores the importance of our mission to tackle climate change through design.

My award-winning project, "Save Exit Glacier," is a deeply personal initiative focused on raising awareness about climate change and advocating for sustainable living. I entered this project to highlight my work to a wider audience and to stress the urgent need for environmental protection.

The primary challenge was to make the concept of CO2 consumption tangible for users. I addressed this by iteratively brainstorming, developing low-fidelity wireframes, and conducting user testing. This process allowed me to refine the design until it effectively conveyed the impact of everyday actions on carbon emissions.

Firstly, the dynamic and ever-changing market that keeps us always learning. We also got intrigued by user-centered design, which allows us to connect deeply with the users. Additionally, the opportunity to interact with the latest technology, which is always exciting and fun to us.

The collaborative community: Designers are always eager to assist one another, creating a nurturing and cooperative environment.

The challenge of problem-solving: I enjoy addressing complex issues and devising creative solutions.

The chance to make a positive impact: Design holds the potential to enhance lives and address significant issues, which is immensely rewarding.

My design is distinguished by its exceptional quality and creativity. I prioritize developing solutions that are functional, user-centered, innovative, and impactful.

I anticipate that AI will assume many repetitive tasks, enabling designers to concentrate more on strategic design thinking and creativity. The industry will likely witness increased integration of AI and advanced technologies, expanding the possibilities of design.

Engage in projects that truly captivate your interest and address problems you are passionate about. Authenticity and passion frequently result in the most innovative and impactful designs.

I suggest taking online courses on platforms like Coursera and Udemy, joining design communities for networking and feedback, and reading books on design principles and methodologies. Additionally, practicing by working on real projects, including personal ones, is extremely valuable.

This is my first time applying for a design award, and the experience has been both challenging and immensely rewarding.

My greatest inspiration has been my father. As a production line designer and engineer, his dedication and passion for his work inspired me to pursue a career in design. Observing him create and innovate instilled in me a desire to draw, design, and build a career around my creativity.

My success hinges on perseverance and a true passion for design. Always remain curious, continuously seek knowledge, and be open to feedback and collaboration. Trust the process and view every challenge as an opportunity for growth.