Qian Wan

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Qian Wan ("QW") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

QW : After completing my Master's degree in Integrated Product Design from Upenn, I embarked on a rewarding professional journey, working with esteemed global companies such as Penn Medicine, GEICO, and VMware. Each opportunity allowed me to make significant contributions and achieve remarkable milestones in various focused areas. At GEICO, I played a pivotal role in the success and widespread adoption of the GEICO Mobile App. This exceptional endeavor garnered substantial recognition, including the Keynova Group bestowed upon it the distinguished title of the top-ranking application. My contributions significantly impacted GEICO's overall success, bolstering its market reputation and expanding its reach, primarily attributed to the immense triumph of the GEICO Mobile App product. During my time at VMware, I played an important role in the design of the multicloud management platform. This encompassed spearheading initiatives related to vRealize Suites, Aria Hub, Business insights, and other essential components. Through my efforts, I played a vital role in the evolution and advancement of VMware's offerings in this domain. These valuable experiences have not only allowed me to demonstrate my expertise and make significant contributions but have also provided me with a profound understanding of the complex and dynamic landscape of the industry. I continue to seek new opportunities to apply my skills, drive innovation, and contribute to the success of impactful projects that shape the future of design and technology.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

QW : Ever since I was a child, I have nurtured a deep passion for design and art. This fervor led me to pursue a university education in industrial design, with a specific focus on furniture. However, as technology advanced rapidly, I found myself increasingly captivated by the digital world and its boundless possibilities. This growing obsession inspired me to channel my creative energy towards designing and creating solutions that serve the greater good of society. I yearned to harness the power of design and technology to make a positive impact and contribute to the betterment of our world. This newfound aspiration has become a driving force in my journey, propelling me to explore innovative ways to leverage design for the betterment of society and create meaningful experiences that resonate with people's lives.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

QW : When it comes to the types of designs I aspire to work on, my passion lies in designing for accessibility and inclusion. I firmly believe that design and experiences should be equitable and accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. By focusing on accessibility, I aim to create designs that empower individuals and ensure that everyone can engage with products, services, and experiences in a meaningful way. Furthermore, I am deeply committed to leveraging design as a vehicle for social impact. Design has the power to influence perceptions, break down barriers, and foster positive change. Through my work, I aspire to address societal challenges, promote inclusivity, and create solutions that have a lasting and meaningful impact on people's lives.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

QW : There are numerous aspects to consider when evaluating what makes a design truly exceptional. One element that I personally hold in high regard is empathy. It is crucial to deeply understand the purpose and intended audience of a project. A design that reflects a genuine empathy for the users it is designed for demonstrates the true passion and commitment of the designer. Additionally, attention to detail plays a significant role in defining the quality of a design. The meticulous consideration of every aspect, from the overall composition to the smallest elements, can elevate a design to a higher level of excellence. Thoughtful execution and a keen eye for detail contribute to the overall cohesiveness and polish of the final product.

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

QW : 14. What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great? One of my most esteemed design achievements is my renowned project, "Ling." This exceptional endeavor is a mobile-based chatbot meticulously crafted to provide inclusive support. The remarkable success of "Ling" is evidenced by its extensive collection of international design accolades, which include: Gold Winner in the Muse Creative Awards in the App - Diversity and Inclusion catego­ry. Gold-Design for Social Change-Apps Gold-Design for Social Change-Interaction Design Gold-Graphic Design-Interaction Design Gold-Mobile Design-Mobile Interaction & Experience Silver-Design for Social Change-Digital design Arcturus Winner in the Vega Digital Awards Iron Winner in A'Design Awards "Ling" not only represents a remarkable achievement in terms of design excellence but also symbolizes my unwavering dedication to designing for inclusion and making a positive impact through my work.

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

QW : Continuing my work on the award-winning project "Ling" is of utmost importance to me as I am driven by the desire to create a platform that empowers individuals to overcome challenges and fosters inclusivity. Designing with the intention of bringing about social good has always been my lifelong goal as a designer.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

QW : When reflecting on the design projects that have brought me the most satisfaction, I find that it is those professional endeavors that have garnered significant impact which stand out. These are the projects that have resonated on a larger scale, leaving a lasting impression both within the organization and in the wider world. One source of satisfaction comes from projects that have received public recognition, where the CEO has publicly acknowledged their significance during global conferences. The exposure gained through press coverage and social media channels amplifies the impact of the project, allowing it to reach a broader audience and make a lasting impression. The recognition received in the form of awards further validates the efforts put into the project and serves as a testament to its excellence. Additionally, projects that have played a pivotal role in driving business growth for the organization bring immense satisfaction. These are the projects that have contributed to achieving key objectives, generating tangible results, and positioning the company for success. Seeing the positive impact on the bottom line and witnessing the growth and success that ensue from these projects is truly rewarding. Ultimately, the projects that have given me the most satisfaction are those that have made a significant impact, whether through public acclaim, recognition, or contributing to the growth and success of the organization. It is the knowledge that my work has made a meaningful difference, both internally and externally, that brings a sense of fulfillment and motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of design.

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

QW : In addition to utilizing professional digital tools like Figma and Adobe for high-level production, I find great enjoyment and value in utilizing more traditional methods such as a whiteboard and pen to flesh out my ideas. There is a certain simplicity and freedom that comes with these analog tools that allows me to fully explore and express my creativity.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

QW : I find great joy in collaborating with others when it comes to design. I believe that there is no singular "ideal design partner" as each collaboration brings a unique and valuable perspective to the table. I approach collaborations with a flexible and open mindset, always eager to learn from others and contribute my own expertise.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

QW : While receiving numerous awards is undoubtedly an incredible achievement, I find myself equally excited about the new journey ahead. Winning these accolades does not mark the end of my journey; rather, it serves as a reminder of the responsibility I bear to continue making meaningful contributions to the realms of inclusion and accessibility. These awards affirm the impact and value of my work thus far, but they also serve as a catalyst for further growth and exploration. I believe that true success lies not in resting on past accomplishments but in embracing the continuous pursuit of improvement and innovation. It is my passion and commitment to creating inclusive and accessible design solutions that propel me forward.