I recently completed the SMU User Experience Design certificate program and must say it was one of the best educational experiences I have ever encountered. Brian Sullivan, J. Schuh and Preston McCauley go above and beyond to present user experience design. Their passion for their subject shows in every class.
My experience lies in visual design. I am a medical illustrator, well trained in biomedical communications ranging from traditional illustration to digital to 3D animation (my first love). The breadth of this course is immense. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone into new territory. Learning the principles of UX design and delving deep into user research and usability testing has expanded my horizons. I have always been an advocate for designing for the best user experience but this course has taken those expectations to a new level. The systematic approach guides the process to result in the best product for both the user and the business. It has given me the tools I need to advocate for the best user experience.
I am embracing this new approach to design. The process of refining the design and iteration providing for the best outcome seems intuitive but is so frequently ignored during the typical design process. Ask the right questions, listen fully and test honestly. Respect the opinions and results of the user research and testing.
I remember the time before cell phones and appreciate the changes that have occurred as smart phones have become part of our everyday existence. I stood in line for the first iphone and still have it tucked away in a drawer, remembering the awe of friends when they first laid eyes on it and my daughter’s desire to help me learn about this new toy. Pure joy and realization of childhood fantasies. I am now embracing the power of mobile apps and their ability to transform the world by providing information, convenience and accessibility at our fingertips. The possibilities are never ending and the need for great design follows.
I am so excited to have found User Experience Design and look forward to opportunities to continue learning about this emerging and evolving field. Onward to the next technological advancement. I am extremely interested in AI/AR/VR/MR. I know these technologies are going to revolutionize the world. I can’t wait to see what opportunities arise in these new areas. I hope I can be a part of it and participate in user research, design and testing in these new technologies.
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