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Interview with Jiayi Chen |
Home > Designer Interviews > Jiayi Chen |
Editor Frank Scott (FS) from DesignPRWire has interviewed designer Jiayi Chen (JC) for A’ Design Award and Competition. You can access the full profile of Jiayi Chen by clicking here.
FS: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
JC: Certainly, I'd be delighted to provide more insight into my background in art and design. My fascination with automobiles dates back to my childhood, where I developed a keen interest in cars. I practically knew every car model on the road, and encountering unfamiliar brands would fill me with excitement. As early as middle school, I started subscribing to automotive magazines monthly, immersing myself in the world of automotive design. During my formative years, I aspired to become an automotive stylist, fueled by my passion for shaping the future of automobiles. However, my perspective began to shift during my undergraduate studies when I was introduced to the realm of digital media. It was then that I realized the evolving trajectory of the automotive industry, moving beyond mere aesthetics to embrace trends in intelligence, automation, and multimodal interaction. This realization ignited a profound interest in automotive interior interaction and user experience design. Throughout my graduate studies, I witnessed the proliferation of smart devices, from wearable tech to mixed reality headsets, and the integration of various interactive interfaces within vehicle interiors. Exploring the challenges posed by designing for different-sized, intelligent surfaces further solidified my desire to pursue a career as an automotive UI/UX designer. My journey has been a fusion of childhood passion, academic exploration, and professional growth, all converging towards a singular goal: to craft immersive and user-centric experiences within the automotive realm.
FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
JC: I am currently employed at Toyota Motor North America HQ, located in Plano, Texas. Within this dynamic environment, I contribute my expertise as an automotive UI/UX designer to Toyota's next-generation Multimedia systems team. At Toyota, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology and innovation, striving to enhance the driving experience for our customers. Overall, our company is driven by a shared vision of shaping the future of mobility through cutting-edge design solutions. We are proud to be part of Toyota's legacy of innovation and look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of automotive design.
FS: What is "design" for you?
JC: Design, to me, is the art and science of problem-solving through creativity and innovation. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines and approaches, all aimed at creating solutions that improve the way we live, work, and interact with the world around us. At its core, design is about understanding people's needs, desires, and behaviors, and translating them into tangible products, services, or experiences. It involves empathizing with users, identifying pain points, and envisioning solutions that address those challenges effectively and elegantly. In everyday life, design is about exploration and research, diving into the endless possibilities of emerging interactive devices like Vision Pro and envisioning how they can revolutionize the user experience. For instance, in my award-winning project, design was about leveraging Vision Pro to create an unprecedented, immersive, and sensory-rich experience for visitors exploring historical sites turned museums. In my professional role as an automotive UI/UX designer, design embodies empathy and safety. It's about representing Toyota's commitment to designing seamless and secure in-car systems for users across over a hundred countries worldwide. The greatest challenge and joy lie in envisioning and designing for the future, ensuring that our solutions not only meet current needs but also anticipate and adapt to evolving user expectations and technological advancements.
FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
JC: I particularly enjoy designing intelligent surfaces across various sizes and mediums. The challenges posed by different-sized interfaces, whether it's a small wearable device or a large automotive display, fascinate me. Each presents unique opportunities to explore innovative interaction paradigms and push the boundaries of user experience design. Whether it's optimizing for touch interactions on a handheld device or crafting immersive experiences for augmented reality heads-up displays in vehicles, I find great satisfaction in tackling the complexities of designing for intelligent surfaces. These projects not only demand creativity and technical expertise but also require a deep understanding of user behavior and context to deliver seamless and intuitive interactions. Overall, I find the diversity and complexity of designing for intelligent surfaces incredibly rewarding and inspiring.
FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
JC: One of my favorite design concepts is emotional design, a concept pioneered by Don Norman. Emotional design focuses on creating products or experiences that evoke positive emotional responses from users, enhancing their overall satisfaction and engagement.Nest Learning Thermostat. A specific example of emotional design: the Nest Learning Thermostat.The Nest Learning Thermostat, created by Tony Fadell, is a prime example of emotional design in the realm of smart home technology. Rather than being just a utilitarian device for controlling indoor temperature, the Nest Thermostat is designed to engage users on an emotional level, fostering a deeper connection with their home environment. One of the key features of the Nest Thermostat is its ability to learn and adapt to users' preferences over time. Through machine learning algorithms, the thermostat analyzes users' behavior patterns, such as temperature adjustments and schedule changes, to automatically optimize heating and cooling settings for maximum comfort and energy efficiency. What truly sets the Nest Thermostat apart, however, is its ability to evoke emotional responses from users. By providing real-time feedback on energy usage and savings, the thermostat empowers users to make informed decisions about their energy consumption, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment in reducing their environmental footprint. In essence, the Nest Learning Thermostat transcends its functional purpose to become a trusted companion that enhances users' daily lives. Through its intelligent features, elegant design, and ability to evoke positive emotions, it exemplifies the power of emotional design in creating meaningful and engaging experiences for users.
FS: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
JC: The first project I had the privilege to work on before joining Toyota was the redesign of the digital instrument cluster for the Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport models. This project was a groundbreaking endeavor that allowed me to be involved in every aspect of the design process, from conducting research on the target audience and ethnographic studies to exploring various color palettes, optical renderings, and mood boards. I am particularly proud of this project because it was a true zero-to-one design initiative. We started from scratch and built something entirely new and innovative. Our focus was on creating a digital instrument cluster that not only provided essential vehicle information but also enhanced the overall driving experience for Bronco owners. One of the key highlights of the project was our attention to detail in rendering different off-road terrain modes within the instrument cluster. For example, we meticulously recreated the visuals of grass, mud, gravel, and other terrain elements in high fidelity, ensuring that users could experience unparalleled immersion and realism when engaging with the off-road modes of the Bronco. By integrating these hyper-realistic elements into the user interface, we were able to elevate the driving experience and provide Bronco users with a truly immersive and visually captivating interface. This project not only showcased my design skills but also instilled in me a deep sense of pride and accomplishment in contributing to the creation of a groundbreaking automotive feature.
FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
JC: Figma has truly revolutionized the lives of designers, enabling remote collaboration, interaction, and rapid prototyping with unprecedented efficiency. It's hard for me not to say that I absolutely love Figma for the convenience and productivity it brings to me and countless UI/UX designers worldwide. Figma has provided us with the flexibility to collaborate seamlessly across distances and iterate on designs in real-time, empowering us to explore the infinite possibilities of design with greater freedom and creativity. What excites me the most is the potential for artificial intelligence to enhance Figma even further. While AI in Figma primarily assists us in tasks like organizing research and facilitating brainstorming sessions, I eagerly anticipate seeing AI capabilities expanded to optimize design standards, streamline design documentation, assist with typography, and more. These advancements would not only save designers and teams significant time but also enable us to focus more on the creative aspects of design, ultimately leading to more innovative and impactful outcomes.
FS: When do you feel the most creative?
JC: I feel most creative when I'm on a road trip. As an automotive UI/UX designer, this is when I can truly empathize with my target audience and think from the perspective of the user. It allows me to envision and design a safer driving experience for users. Traveling by car provides me with a unique opportunity to immerse myself in the user's environment and observe firsthand how they interact with the vehicle's interface. Whether it's navigating through unfamiliar terrain, adjusting settings while on the move, or simply enjoying the journey, I gain valuable insights into the user experience that inform my design decisions. Being on the road sparks my imagination and stimulates my creativity. It's a time when I can brainstorm new ideas, envision innovative features, and think outside the box to create intuitive and user-friendly interfaces that enhance the driving experience. Ultimately, road trips fuel my passion for automotive design and inspire me to push the boundaries of creativity to deliver solutions that truly resonate with users.
FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
JC: During the entire design process, I primarily focus on two aspects. Firstly, in the initial stages, I dedicate significant attention to defining the problem through extensive research and data visualization. It's crucial for me to articulate a problem statement grounded in reality, rather than relying on conjecture. I aim to address genuine user needs and pain points, ensuring that my design solutions are rooted in real-world insights. Secondly, usability testing is an aspect that I prioritize greatly. Interaction design relies heavily on usability testing, and I place a strong emphasis on gathering authentic user feedback. Utilizing wireframes, mid-fidelity prototypes, and simulated user testing, I seek feedback from users and stakeholders to inform iteration and refinement. This iterative process of testing and updating is essential for ensuring that the final design meets user expectations and effectively addresses their needs.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
JC: When I design, I experience a variety of emotions that are integral to the creative process. Excitement: There's a natural thrill that comes with exploring new ideas and possibilities. During the initial stages of a project, I feel a sense of excitement as I brainstorm concepts and envision potential solutions. Empathy: As a user-centered designer, empathy plays a significant role in my work. Understanding the needs, desires, and challenges of users often evokes feelings of compassion and empathy towards their experiences. Satisfaction: There's immense satisfaction and a sense of responsibility that comes from knowing that my designs will impact users in the real world. Designing for Toyota vehicles, which are used in over a hundred countries worldwide, fills me with a deep sense of fulfillment and pride. Knowing that my work contributes to enhancing the driving experience for people globally is incredibly rewarding. Overall, designing is a deeply emotional journey that encompasses a range of feelings, from excitement and empathy to inspiration and profound satisfaction. These emotions serve as both motivators and guides, shaping my creative process and influencing the impact of my designs on the world.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
JC: When my designs are realized, I experience a mix of emotions that reflect both the culmination of my efforts and the beginning of a new phase in the design process. Satisfaction: There's a profound sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing my designs come to life. Knowing that my ideas have been transformed into tangible products or experiences brings a deep sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. Responsibility: With the realization of my designs comes a heightened sense of responsibility. I recognize the impact that my designs can have on users' lives, and I feel a strong obligation to ensure that they meet their needs effectively and responsibly. Determination: Realizing my designs also fuels my determination to continue gathering user feedback and iterating on the design. I'm committed to refining and improving my designs based on real-world usage and evolving user needs, ensuring that they remain relevant and impactful over time. Overall, seeing my designs realized elicits feelings of satisfaction, responsibility, and determination. It's a moment of validation for all the hard work and creativity invested in the design process, while also marking the beginning of a continuous journey of refinement and improvement.
FS: What makes a design successful?
JC: When my designs are realized, I experience a mix of emotions that reflect both the culmination of my efforts and the beginning of a new phase in the design process. With the realization of my designs comes a heightened sense of responsibility. I recognize the impact that my designs can have on users' lives, and I feel a strong obligation to ensure that they meet their needs effectively and responsibly. Realizing my designs also fuels my determination to continue gathering user feedback and iterating on the design. I'm committed to refining and improving my designs based on real-world usage and evolving user needs, ensuring that they remain relevant and impactful over time. Overall, seeing my designs realized elicits feelings of satisfaction, responsibility, and determination. It's a moment of validation for all the hard work and creativity invested in the design process, while also marking the beginning of a continuous journey of refinement and improvement.
FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
JC: When judging a design as good or bad, particularly in the realm of interaction design, I place significant emphasis on the user experience, drawing inspiration from my own perspective and experiences. Good design, especially in interaction design, doesn't necessarily aim to dazzle users with flashy elements or immediate visual impact. Instead, I believe that the power of interaction design lies in its ability to feel seamless, logical, and almost subconscious in operation. A good interaction design should be subtle, unobtrusive, and require minimal cognitive effort to navigate. In my work, I'm mindful of Toyota's reputation for reliability and the sizable market share it commands in the rental car industry. Viewing design through the lens of rental car users, who may not necessarily be Toyota owners, underscores the importance of considerations such as low learning curves, usability, and ease of use. When these users first interact with Toyota's in-car systems, it's crucial that they can intuitively navigate the interface with minimal effort, almost instinctively finding the functions they're seeking. This emphasis on low learning curves, usability, and subconscious interaction is particularly noteworthy and guides my evaluation of designs in terms of their effectiveness and impact on users.
FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
JC: From my perspective, designers bear significant responsibilities towards both society and the environment, reflecting a commitment to ethical and sustainable design practices. Creating Inclusive Solutions: Designers have a responsibility to create solutions that are inclusive and accessible to all members of society, regardless of their background, abilities, or circumstances. This includes designing products, services, and experiences that cater to diverse user needs and promote social equity and inclusion. Promoting Sustainability: Designers play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and minimizing environmental impact throughout the design process. This involves considering the lifecycle of products, materials, and resources, and prioritizing eco-friendly practices such as recyclability, energy efficiency, and waste reduction. By incorporating sustainable principles into their designs, designers can help mitigate the environmental impact of consumer products and contribute to a more sustainable future. Advocating for Ethical Practices: Designers should advocate for ethical practices and uphold ethical standards in their work. This includes ensuring transparency, honesty, and integrity in all design processes, as well as respecting user privacy and data security. By prioritizing ethical considerations, designers can build trust with users and contribute to a culture of responsible design practice. Fostering Innovation for Social Good: Designers have the opportunity to leverage their skills and creativity to address pressing social and environmental challenges. By focusing on design solutions that address issues such as healthcare access, education, poverty alleviation, and environmental conservation, designers can make meaningful contributions to society and drive positive change. Engaging in Continuous Learning and Improvement: Designers should commit to ongoing learning and professional development to stay informed about emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in the field. This includes staying updated on advancements in sustainable design, social impact initiatives, and ethical frameworks, and integrating this knowledge into their design processes. Overall, designers have a multifaceted responsibility to contribute positively to society and the environment through their work. By embracing inclusive, sustainable, and ethical design practices, designers can help create a more equitable, environmentally conscious, and socially responsible world.
FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
JC: I believe the future of design is the direction all designers are actively exploring. From a technological standpoint, artificial intelligence is increasingly aiding designers in completing more foundational tasks, affording us more time and space to contemplate and delve into future designs. Technologies like Apple Vision Pro and other mixed reality devices continue to prompt us to rethink information display and user interfaces in the era of spatial computing, adding a whole new dimension to design. These trends led by technology are undeniably significant. Additionally, considering my experience in automotive UI/UX design, I see a particular relevance in these technological advancements. The integration of AI and mixed reality technologies opens up new avenues for creating seamless and immersive user experiences within automotive interfaces. As vehicles become more connected and autonomous, the role of design in shaping the user's interaction with these systems becomes increasingly crucial. Therefore, embracing these technological advancements allows us to envision and realize innovative solutions that enhance safety, convenience, and overall user satisfaction in automotive design. Moreover, from an environmental perspective, there's a growing emphasis on sustainability and inclusive design. These design trends are guiding us toward a brighter future. With a heightened awareness of environmental issues and the need for responsible consumption, designers are increasingly incorporating sustainable practices and materials into their designs. Inclusive design principles are also gaining traction, promoting solutions that cater to diverse user needs and abilities. By prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity, designers can create solutions that not only meet the needs of the present but also contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.
FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
JC: The design inspiration for my works often stems from the release of innovative technologies like Apple Vision Pro. I'm particularly inspired by the encouragement and inclusivity within Apple's ecosystem for software development, which I haven't seen to the same extent with previous devices like Quest and HoloLens. As a result, my design projects revolve around exploring applications for Apple Vision Pro. I believe the seamless integration between Apple Vision Pro and other Apple ecosystem devices like the iPhone opens up exciting possibilities for designers. I'm eager to see more designers delve into the possibilities of the spatial computing era. For me, the emergence of new technologies and devices serves as crucial inspiration and motivation to explore the field of interaction design further.
FS: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
JC: I would describe my design style as pragmatic. I prioritize functionality and usability, focusing on whether a solution addresses real problems, adds value, and has been validated through usability testing, among other criteria. My exploration of this style is driven by a desire to create designs that genuinely meet user needs and enhance their experiences. The main characteristics of my style include a strong emphasis on user-centricity, attention to detail, and a rigorous testing and validation process. My approach to design is rooted in thorough research and analysis to identify user needs and pain points. I believe in taking a holistic view of the design process, from problem definition to solution implementation, ensuring that every decision is informed by user insights and testing feedback. Collaboration and iteration are key aspects of my approach, as I work closely with multidisciplinary teams to refine and optimize designs based on continuous feedback and evaluation. Ultimately, my goal is to create solutions that are not only functional and usable but also intuitive and impactful for users.
FS: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
JC: I currently reside in Detroit, Michigan, in the United States, and I frequently spend time in Dallas, Texas. My hometown is Shenyang, China. Undoubtedly, the cultural heritage of both China and the United States influences my designs in various ways. Living in the United States exposes me to a diverse range of cultural perspectives and design philosophies. I'm immersed in a society that values innovation, practicality, and user-centered design. This environment encourages me to explore new ideas, adopt modern technologies, and prioritize usability in my designs. Additionally, being in Detroit, a city known for its automotive industry, further fuels my passion for automotive design and technology. On the other hand, my Chinese heritage instills in me a deep appreciation for tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural symbolism. This influences my design aesthetic and approach, infusing my work with elements that reflect Chinese cultural values and aesthetics. There are both pros and cons to designing as a result of living in my country. On the positive side, the United States offers access to cutting-edge technologies, diverse talent pools, and robust design communities. This fosters innovation and collaboration, allowing me to push the boundaries of design and create impactful solutions. However, navigating cultural differences and preferences can sometimes present challenges, especially when designing for global markets. It requires sensitivity to cultural nuances and an understanding of diverse user behaviors and preferences. Overall, my experiences living in both China and the United States have enriched my design perspective and influenced the way I approach and conceptualize designs, ultimately contributing to more thoughtful and culturally resonant solutions.
FS: How do you work with companies?
JC: I work at Toyota Motor North America, I adhere to a user-centric design approach, ensuring solutions align closely with brand objectives while prioritizing outstanding user experiences. This involves extensive user research to understand diverse needs and preferences. At Toyota, I collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including 3D and animation designers, and human-machine interface engineers, fostering exceptional automotive multimedia systems. Continuous improvement is key, with prompt feedback gathering and adjustments to remain aligned with development goals. I'm dedicated to integrating the latest technology, like advanced interaction and augmented reality, into designs, enhancing competitiveness and user experience. In embodying Toyota's values, I convey innovation, reliability, and user care through design language and interaction methods. Moreover, Toyota's in-house frontend developers significantly boost design delivery efficiency. Our collaboration ensures seamless communication, translating concepts into polished interfaces efficiently, facilitating rapid iteration, and reducing the risk of misinterpretation. In summary, this integrated approach maximizes efficiency, accelerates time to market, and ensures the successful realization of our design vision at Toyota.
FS: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
JC: When working with designers, companies should prioritize clear communication, mutual respect, and a collaborative mindset. Here are some suggestions for companies: Clear Communication: Establish open and transparent communication channels to ensure that both parties understand project goals, expectations, timelines, and deliverables. Collaborative Approach: Foster a collaborative environment where designers can freely share ideas, provide feedback, and contribute to the creative process. Encourage cross-functional collaboration to leverage diverse perspectives and expertise. Respect for Expertise: Recognize and respect the expertise of designers in their respective fields. Trust their creative judgment and allow them the autonomy to explore innovative solutions. Feedback Mechanism: Implement a feedback mechanism that allows for constructive feedback throughout the design process. Regular check-ins and reviews can help ensure that the project stays on track and meets stakeholders' expectations. Value Alignment: Select designers whose values and design philosophy align with the company's mission and objectives. Look for designers who demonstrate a passion for their craft and a commitment to delivering high-quality work. To select a good designer, companies can consider the following factors: Portfolio: Review the designer's portfolio to assess the quality and diversity of their work. Look for projects that demonstrate creativity, problem-solving skills, and a strong understanding of user needs. Experience: Evaluate the designer's experience in relevant industries or projects. Consider their track record of successful collaborations and their ability to adapt to different design challenges. Collaboration Skills: Assess the designer's ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Look for strong communication skills, adaptability, and a collaborative mindset. References and Recommendations: Seek out references and recommendations from previous clients or colleagues who have worked with the designer. Feedback from trusted sources can provide valuable insights into the designer's strengths and work ethic. Cultural Fit: Consider the designer's cultural fit with the company's values, work culture, and team dynamics. Look for designers who share similar values and can integrate seamlessly into the company's workflow. By prioritizing clear communication, collaboration, and alignment of values, companies can establish successful partnerships with designers and achieve their design goals effectively.
FS: Can you talk a little about your design process?
JC: Here's my design process, incorporating relevant design theories and principles: Research and Discovery (Informed by Design Thinking): I start by empathizing with users to understand their needs and pain points, a fundamental principle of Design Thinking. This involves conducting qualitative and quantitative research, such as user interviews and contextual inquiries, to gather insights into user behaviors and preferences. Define Design Goals (Aligned with Human-Centered Design): Drawing from Human-Centered Design principles, I define clear design goals that prioritize the needs and desires of end-users. By focusing on human needs and experiences, I ensure that design solutions are meaningful, usable, and valuable to users. Ideation and Concept Development (Inspired by Divergent Thinking): I employ divergent thinking techniques to generate a wide range of ideas and explore diverse design solutions. This creative process encourages brainstorming, sketching, and rapid prototyping to explore multiple possibilities and uncover innovative solutions. Prototyping and Testing (Based on Usability Principles): Following usability principles, I create low-fidelity and high-fidelity prototypes to simulate user interactions and gather feedback. Usability testing, heuristic evaluations, and cognitive walkthroughs help identify usability issues and refine the user experience. Iteration and Refinement (Driven by Agile Methodology): Inspired by Agile Methodology, I embrace an iterative approach to design, prioritizing flexibility, adaptability, and rapid iteration. Through iterative cycles of design, feedback, and refinement, I continuously improve the design solution to better meet user needs and project requirements. Implementation and Delivery (Informed by Lean UX): In alignment with Lean UX principles, I emphasize collaboration, minimal viable products (MVPs), and iterative delivery. By working closely with development teams and stakeholders, I ensure efficient implementation of design solutions while maintaining focus on user value and business goals. Evaluation and Optimization (Informed by User-Centered Design): Drawing from User-Centered Design principles, I conduct post-launch evaluations to assess the effectiveness of the design solution. User feedback, usability metrics, and A/B testing results inform iterative improvements and optimizations to enhance the user experience over time. By integrating these theoretical frameworks and principles into my design process, I strive to create holistic, user-centric design solutions that address real-world challenges and deliver meaningful value to users and stakeholders alike.
FS: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
JC: Here are some insights into the design elements I have at home: Nest Thermostat: The Nest Thermostat serves as the central control hub for your home's temperature, showcasing a blend of minimalist design and advanced functionality. Its intuitive interface and smart features align with the principles of emotional design, offering both practicality and aesthetic appeal. HomePod: Apple's HomePod seamlessly integrates into your home environment, offering high-fidelity audio and smart home capabilities. Its sleek, cylindrical design and premium materials contribute to its visual appeal, while its immersive sound quality enhances the ambiance of any room. Samsung's "The Frame" TV: Samsung's "The Frame" TV blurs the line between technology and art, seamlessly transforming into a piece of artwork when not in use. Its slim profile and customizable bezels allow it to blend harmoniously with your home decor, while its Art Mode feature displays a curated selection of paintings and photographs, adding a touch of sophistication to your living space. Acrylic Painting Canvas: The acrylic painting canvas serves as a creative outlet, allowing you to express yourself artistically and add a personal touch to your home. Its blank surface invites experimentation and exploration, offering endless possibilities for self-expression and artistic innovation. Nespresso Coffee Machine: The Nespresso coffee machine combines sleek design with gourmet coffee-making capabilities, offering a luxurious and convenient coffee experience. Its compact size and modern aesthetic make it a stylish addition to any kitchen, while its user-friendly interface and customizable settings ensure a perfect cup of coffee every time.
FS: Can you describe a day in your life?
JC: here's a glimpse into a typical day in my life: Around 8:00 AM, I wake up and start my day with a nutritious breakfast, preparing myself for work. Typically, I engage in remote work from home, although occasionally I may head to the office for UX Kaizen activities, usability testing sessions, or test-driving new and competitor vehicles. The company provides lunch around noon, allowing me to refuel and recharge for the rest of the day. In the afternoon, I focus on individual tasks, attend meetings, or collaborate with colleagues on ongoing projects. After work, I sometimes explore new restaurants with friends, enjoying the opportunity to unwind and socialize. Badminton and swimming are my preferred forms of exercise, and I often indulge in a game or swim after dinner. Upon returning home, I take a refreshing shower before indulging in my passion for acrylic painting, using this creative outlet to unwind and express myself artistically. Finally, I wind down for the evening, reflecting on the day's events before heading to bed, ready to tackle whatever tomorrow may bring.
FS: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
JC: Hey there, young designers! Here are a few nuggets of wisdom to keep in mind: Stay Curious: Dive into the news, especially stuff that tickles your fancy. Whether it's design trends, tech breakthroughs, or just what's happening in the world, staying curious keeps your creative juices flowing. Tech It Up: Don't shy away from new tech! Whether it's AR, AI, or the next big thing, give it a spin. Who knows, it might just revolutionize your design game. Hang Out and Team Up: Designing is cool, but designing with pals is even cooler. Connect with fellow creatives, swap ideas, and watch your designs reach new heights. So, keep those eyes peeled, stay open to new tech, and don't forget to mix and mingle with fellow design enthusiasts. The journey's just as fun as the destination!
FS: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
JC: On the sunny side: Creative Thrills: Kicking off a new project is like diving into an adventure. It's all about exploring new ideas and bringing them to life. Talk about a thrill ride! Decent Dough: Design gigs often come with a sweet paycheck. Plus, if you've got the skills, you can land some pretty cushy gigs. Now, onto the not-so-sunny side: Talent Tango: Climbing the career ladder in design isn't just about skills; it's also about that elusive thing called talent. Plus, you'll need a heap of soft skills to boot. Skill Gap: Designers might not get much schooling in the business, management, or economics realms. But in the corporate world, those skills can be key to climbing the career ladder. So, while design life comes with its fair share of ups and downs, it's all part of the ride!
FS: What is your "golden rule" in design?
JC: My "golden rule" in design? It's simple: empathy. Design isn't just about making things look pretty; it's about understanding the people who'll be using those things. When you put yourself in their shoes, you can create experiences that truly resonate and make a difference. That's the magic of empathy in design.
FS: What skills are most important for a designer?
JC: For a designer, research skills are paramount. Being able to conduct thorough research enables designers to uncover insights, identify problems, and define the challenges they need to address. Moreover, in the context of the Double Diamond model, understanding how to discover the underlying needs and pain points of users is crucial for successful design outcomes. Additionally, skills in problem-solving, ideation, prototyping, and delivery are essential for effectively translating insights into tangible design solutions that meet user needs and expectations.
FS: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
JC: In my design toolbox, I primarily rely on digital tools and software to facilitate the design process. Figma serves as my go-to platform for collaborative design, allowing me to create, prototype, and iterate on designs seamlessly. Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator are essential for graphic design and creating visual assets, while Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects are used for video editing and motion graphics, respectively. Additionally, Sketch and InVision are valuable for interface design and prototyping. Beyond software, I draw inspiration from various sources such as design blogs, industry publications, and online communities. Books on design theory and human-computer interaction also play a significant role in shaping my understanding and approach to design. Moreover, I stay updated on emerging trends and technologies in the automotive and digital design industries, which often inspire new ideas and solutions in my work.
FS: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
JC: In a large enterprise like Toyota, managing time efficiently in the design process involves close collaboration with multiple stakeholders. Typically, we work closely with product managers and project managers who oversee budgets and timelines. Exceptional product managers excel at proactive coordination with designers and developers, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle. By anticipating potential challenges and aligning efforts in advance, we strive to meet project timelines effectively. Moreover, if we encounter instances where timelines aren't met, we conduct thorough post-mortems. These sessions allow us to reflect on what went wrong, identify areas for improvement, and establish robust mechanisms or systems to prevent similar issues from arising in the future. This commitment to continuous improvement ensures that we optimize our processes and deliver high-quality results consistently.
FS: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
JC: The duration of designing an object varies significantly depending on the scope and complexity of the project. In my professional experience, larger projects, such as the design and development of a central control system for automobiles, can span anywhere from two to three years. These projects involve extensive research, iterative design processes, and thorough testing to ensure a seamless user experience. On the other hand, for personal creative projects, the timeline is often shorter. These projects typically range from two weeks to two months to complete. The shorter timeline allows for more experimentation and agility in the design process, resulting in quicker iterations and faster realization of ideas. Overall, the duration of designing an object can vary based on the project's requirements, objectives, and resources available.
FS: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
JC: As a designer, the most frequently asked question I receive is often along the lines of "What do you design?" My usual response is that I design automobiles, although in reality, my role involves contributing to specific aspects of the design process rather than overseeing the entire project. It's a common misconception, but I always take the opportunity to clarify and share insights into the particular areas of design I focus on within the automotive industry.
FS: What was your most important job experience?
JC: It's quite challenging to single out one particular experience as the most pivotal, given the diverse nature of each project I've been involved in. However, if pressed to choose, I'd highlight my contribution to the design of the digital dashboards for the Bronco and Bronco Sport models. This endeavor afforded me a profound insight into the intricate design principles and standards within automotive dashboard design, encompassing elements like the placement of warning indicators, Rimblock considerations, and more. This experience significantly deepened my passion for the automotive industry and propelled my career trajectory within this dynamic field.
FS: Who are some of your clients?
JC: My clients primarily include Toyota and Lexus vehicle owners, purchasers, as well as renters, drivers, and passengers, spanning across nearly every country worldwide.
FS: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
JC: I find myself particularly drawn to UX design, which constitutes about 80% of my current workload, compared to the remaining 20% dedicated to UI design. The reason behind my preference lies in the intricate logic and functionality mapping inherent to UX work. For me, optimizing user interactions, especially in the context of driving, holds immense potential for enhancing safety. Streamlining processes and reducing unnecessary steps can make a significant difference in ensuring user safety while on the road. Therefore, I derive great satisfaction from and willingly undertake UX-related tasks.
FS: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
JC: My future aspirations in design include advancing further in my career path to roles such as Design Manager, Design Director, and perhaps even Creative Director. Looking decades ahead, I envision establishing my own brand in the recreational vehicle (RV) industry, designing vehicles that encapsulate my unique vision and design philosophy.
FS: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
JC: In my professional endeavors, teamwork plays a pivotal role. Collaborating with cross-functional teams allows for a diverse range of perspectives and expertise to inform the design process. At Toyota, for instance, we benefit from in-house software developers, facilitating seamless communication and ensuring the feasibility of design concepts. However, outside of work, I also engage in solo design exploration, where I have the freedom to experiment and delve into personal projects autonomously.
FS: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
JC: We're currently engaged in the development of the next-generation Toyota multimedia system, building upon the foundation laid by the 21st-century multimedia platform. Our goal is to deliver a more seamless and immersive user experience for drivers and passengers alike. While I can't divulge further details at this stage, I'm excited about the potential of our design, and I look forward to sharing it with everyone in the coming year or two.
FS: How can people contact you?
JC: charles.chen.jy@gmail.com +1 9123066033 +86 18524491997
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
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