Mingjia Yu, Yuanyuan Song and Xiyan Wang

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Mingjia Yu, Yuanyuan Song and Xiyan Wang ("MYYSAXW") 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?

MYYSAXW : I am Mingjia. I have a background in software engineering and UX design, which has provided me with a strong foundation in both the artistic and technical aspects of design. I pursued my education at the University of Washington, where I specialized in Human Centered Design & Engineering. This blend of disciplines has allowed me to create user-centric designs that are both visually appealing and highly functional. I am Xiyan(Christine) Wang, I have a background in UX design and creative technology (AR/VR, wearables). I was graduated in New York University. I enjoy learning and interviewing stakeholders (from different countries, industries and walks of life) and untangling complex systems, weaving creativity and data-driven insights to create beautiful, empowering experiences. I am Yuanyuan (Nicole) Song, a UX designer with a background in interior design. My passion lies in helping users navigate and resolve complex problems while simplifying their learning experience with new tools. I leverage my design expertise to create intuitive and user-friendly interfaces.

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

MYYSAXW : Our motivation to design comes from a desire to solve problems creatively and improve people's lives. We became a designer because we are passionate about creating intuitive and impactful solutions that make everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable. Seeing how design can transform experiences and drive positive change keeps us inspired and motivated.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

MYYSAXW : We chose to become designers because it was a natural progression of my interests and skills. From a young age, we were drawn to both art and technology, and design was the perfect field where we could merge these passions and make a meaningful impact.

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

MYYSAXW : We design digital tools and applications that enhance user experience and productivity. We particularly enjoy working on projects that involve information management and AI integration. In the future, we hope to design more innovative solutions that leverage emerging technologies to solve complex problems and improve daily life.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

MYYSAXW : Young designers should focus on continuously learning and evolving their skills. They should seek out challenging projects, stay curious, and be open to feedback. Building a strong portfolio that showcases a variety of work, understanding user needs, and staying updated with industry trends are crucial steps. Persistence and a passion for solving problems creatively will set them on the path to becoming design legends.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

MYYSAXW : A good designer creates visually appealing and functional designs, while a great designer goes beyond that to deeply understand user needs and create innovative solutions that resonate on a deeper level. Great designers are also excellent communicators, team players, and are always learning and adapting to new challenges and technologies.

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

MYYSAXW : A really good design effectively solves the problem it was intended to address, provides an intuitive and seamless user experience, and is aesthetically pleasing. I evaluate good design based on usability, user feedback, and how well it meets the project's goals. A design that delights users and achieves its purpose is considered excellent.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

MYYSAXW : Good design enhances functionality, improves user satisfaction, and can significantly impact a product’s success. Investing in good design leads to better user experiences, increased engagement, and loyalty. It can differentiate a brand in a competitive market and drive long-term growth and success.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

MYYSAXW : If I had the time, I would design an educational platform that leverages AI to provide personalized learning experiences. This platform would be aimed at students of all ages, helping them learn at their own pace and style, making education more accessible and engaging.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

MYYSAXW : All of our team wanted to fully develop our awarded design"Insightnest". This web App has a fantastic idea of combining AI with information processing. But due to the lack of developers in our team and a tight timeline, we haven’t realized it yet. However, we remain passionate about bringing this innovative solution to life in the future.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

MYYSAXW : My secret recipe for success in design is a combination of empathy, continuous learning, and collaboration. Empathy allows me to understand user needs deeply, continuous learning keeps my skills and knowledge sharp, and collaboration brings diverse perspectives that enhance the design process.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

MYYSAXW : I am inspired by Jakob Nielsen and Don Norman for their Usability Heuristics for User Interface Design, which have set a benchmark for creating intuitive and user-friendly interfaces. Their principles guide designers to focus on the user experience and ensure that designs are accessible and efficient. Additionally, David Kelley of IDEO has greatly influenced my approach to design with his emphasis on human-centered design. His work underscores the importance of empathy and understanding user needs to create meaningful and impactful solutions. Both Nielsen Norman and David Kelley have significantly shaped my design philosophy and practice.

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

MYYSAXW : One of my favorite designs is the Airbnb platform. The design seamlessly combines aesthetics with functionality, providing an intuitive user experience from booking to check-in. I admire how it balances clean, modern visuals with practical features like interactive maps and personalized recommendations. The thoughtful design of Airbnb not only makes the process of finding accommodations easy and enjoyable but also fosters a sense of community and trust among users.

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

MYYSAXW : I am Mingjia. My greatest design is a feature I developed during my internship at Google for the Fitbit Mobile App. This feature helps users better understand their workout achievements by providing detailed analytics and visual summaries of their progress. This project was particularly rewarding because it combined my passion for design and technology with tons of my creative ideas to enhance user engagement and encourage a healthier lifestyle. The positive feedback from users reaffirmed the impact of thoughtful design on improving user experience and satisfaction.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

MYYSAXW : To become better designers, people should practice consistently, seek constructive feedback, and stay updated with industry trends. I improved by taking on diverse projects, learning from both successes and failures, and constantly seeking to understand user needs better. Attending workshops, reading design books, and engaging with the design community also helped me grow.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

MYYSAXW : If I hadn’t become a designer, I would have likely pursued a career in technology, perhaps as a software developer or a product manager. These roles also involve problem-solving and creating impactful solutions, which are at the core of my interests.

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

MYYSAXW : Design for me is the process of creatively solving problems to improve functionality and aesthetics. It’s about understanding user needs and crafting solutions that are both beautiful and practical. Design is the bridge between imagination and reality, turning ideas into tangible experiences that enhance our daily lives.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

MYYSAXW : Our biggest supporters have been our parents. Their unwavering confidence in us and my pursuits, even when we're physically apart, has been invaluable. Their constant support has given me the strength and encouragement to pursue our goals and reach new heights in our career.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

MYYSAXW : First, our curiosity for new technology drives our to constantly explore and innovate within the field. This curiosity pushes us to stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies, enabling us to create cutting-edge designs. Second, our genuine desire to help millions of users enjoy and benefit from new technology motivates us to create user-centric designs that enhance the overall user experience. This focus on improving the lives of users through design has been instrumental in shaping our approach and success as a designer.

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

MYYSAXW : We encountered various obstacles, particularly in navigating ambiguous situations. However, we overcame these challenges by utilizing different techniques and trusting the design process. This involved embracing ambiguity, experimenting with different approaches, and remaining resilient in the face of uncertainty.

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

MYYSAXW : Designers should present their work with passion, showcasing their unwavering faith in the value of their designs. This passion not only demonstrates their commitment and belief in their work but also captivates the audience and instills confidence in the design's efficacy.

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

MYYSAXW : Our next design project revolves around continuously helping users and exploring how new technology will impact user behavior. We're committed to creating innovative solutions that enhance user experiences and adapt to evolving technological landscapes. Expect us to push the boundaries of design, leveraging emerging technologies to create meaningful and impactful solutions for users worldwide.

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

MYYSAXW : Our ultimate goal as designers is the willingness to help millions of users enjoy and benefit from new technology. We aim to create user-centric designs that enhance accessibility, usability, and overall experiences, ensuring that our work positively impacts the lives of users worldwide.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

MYYSAXW : Deliver innovative solutions that not only meet their needs but exceed their expectations. They anticipate designs that are not only visually appealing but also functional, intuitive, and user-centered.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

MYYSAXW : By creating accessible designs that everyone can use, regardless of their abilities, we ensure that no one is left behind. This promotes inclusivity and empowers individuals to fully participate in society, whether it's accessing information, services, or products. Design can also help to explain complex concepts and technologies using easy-to-use platforms, reducing the learning curve for users. By breaking down barriers to understanding, we enable broader adoption and utilization of technology, ultimately democratizing access to knowledge and opportunities.

DL: What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

MYYSAXW : While AI is a hot topic, its practical application in daily use cases is still evolving. We're passionate about bridging this gap by helping users better understand how to use AI and reap its benefits in their daily lives. Our aim is to create user-friendly experiences that demystify AI technology and empower users to leverage its capabilities effectively.

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

MYYSAXW : The design projects that give us the most satisfaction are often the ones we're currently working on or about to embark on. This is because we view each project as an opportunity to learn and grow from our previous experiences. With every project, we gain new insights, refine our skills, and push the boundaries of what's possible in design.

DL: What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

MYYSAXW : In the coming years, I would like to see a shift in the design industry where designers have a deeper understanding of the value they bring to companies and products. I hope to see designers become more empowered to speak up and actively participate in business decisions, leveraging their unique perspective to drive innovation and shape strategic direction. This would not only elevate the role of designers within organizations but also lead to more impactful and user-centered products and services.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

MYYSAXW : It would be evolving towards a more integrated approach, focusing on mix platform experiences and seamless eco-systems. The future of design will heavily incorporate AI to personalize user interactions, while data privacy will become a core consideration. Designers will need to balance innovation with ethical responsibilities, ensuring sustainable and user-centric solutions.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

MYYSAXW : The time it takes to finalize a design project varies depending on the complexity of the project, the scope of work, and the business timeline. We strive to find the balance between meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality design. Our goal is always to deliver exceptional design within the constraints of the project timeline, without compromising on quality.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

MYYSAXW : When starting a new design project, we begin by gaining a thorough understanding of the project requirements, the company's goals, and the industry landscape. By immersing ourselves in the project context, we can effectively define the problem space, establish clear objectives, and develop a strategy that guides our design process.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

MYYSAXW : Our life motto as designers is to "Design with purpose, empathy, and innovation." We believe in creating designs that serve a meaningful purpose, empathize with the needs of users, and push the boundaries of innovation. This motto guides our approach to every project, inspiring us to create impactful and user-centered solutions that make a positive difference in the world.

DL: Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

MYYSAXW : It's a symbiotic relationship where both design and trends influence each other. Design has the power to set trends by introducing innovative concepts, pushing boundaries, and responding to emerging needs. Similarly, trends also shape design by reflecting societal preferences, cultural shifts, and technological advancements. Successful design often involves a dynamic interplay between these factors, where designers draw inspiration from current trends while also striving to create designs that resonate with users and stand the test of time.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

MYYSAXW : It serves as the foundation upon which designs are developed, providing the tools and platforms necessary to create innovative solutions. Additionally, technology often serves as a source of inspiration for design, both in the present and the future. By staying abreast of technological advancements, designers can anticipate how emerging technologies will impact user behaviors, preferences, and expectations, allowing them to design experiences that are not only relevant but also forward-thinking.

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

MYYSAXW : We primarily use Figma for designing and prototyping. Figma offers a collaborative platform that enables seamless communication and iteration among team members. Additionally, we utilize various tools from the Google Suite, such as Google Sheets for interview recording and data analysis. For team collaboration and project management, we rely on Notion, which provides a flexible and customizable workspace for organizing information, sharing ideas, and tracking progress.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

MYYSAXW : In User Experience Design, color, materials, and ambiance play crucial roles in creating an engaging and effective user experience. Color influences user emotions and behaviors, helping to convey brand identity, guide user attention, and improve readability through contrast and harmony. Materials, often represented through textures and visual styles, contribute to the perception of realism and quality, enhancing the tactile feel and depth of the digital interface. Ambiance, which includes the overall mood and atmosphere created by these elements, sets the tone for user interactions, making the experience more immersive and emotionally resonant.

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

MYYSAXW : I hope people ask about the underlying purpose and intent behind the design. Understanding the "why" behind a design decision is crucial. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about solving a specific problem or meeting a particular need. For example, if I've designed a user interface for a mobile app, I want them to inquire about the user experience improvements, accessibility considerations, and the core functionality that the design enhances.

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

MYYSAXW : I reflect on the lessons I can draw from the design and how it can inspire my future projects. Great designs can serve as benchmarks and sources of inspiration, helping to push my own creative boundaries and improve my design practice.

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

MYYSAXW : My ideal design partner is someone who are competent at their design softwares, is detail-oriented, is a great communicator, have good sense of aesthetics and his/her creativity can inspire new approaches and solutions. Yes, I strongly believe in co-design, especially when it comes to accessibility. Co-design involves collaborating with stakeholders, including end-users, throughout the design process. This approach ensures that the resulting product genuinely meets the needs and expectations of those it serves.

DL: Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

MYYSAXW : The most influential interactions in my design career have come from a blend of direct user engagement, collaborative teamwork, mentorship, accessibility advocacy, stakeholder communication, and active participation in the design community.

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

MYYSAXW : Hooked - How to build a habit forming product

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

MYYSAXW : I developed my skills as a master designer through learning, practicing and many trial,error and iterations. Starting with a strong foundation in design principles, I gained hands-on experience through internships and diverse projects, continually seeking feedback and iterating on my work. Engaging with mentors and collaborating with talented colleagues enriched my perspective, while attending workshops, reading extensively, and participating in the design community kept me updated on the latest trends and technologies. Reflecting on each project, focusing on specialized areas like user experience and accessibility, and drawing inspiration from a variety of sources have all contributed to my growth and expertise as a designer.

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

MYYSAXW : If I could have a conversation with Nir Eyal, the author of "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products," it would be a fascinating discussion about the psychology of user behavior, product design strategies, and the ethical considerations surrounding habit-forming technologies. I'd be curious to delve deeper into his insights on creating products that capture user attention, drive engagement, and foster long-term habits, while also exploring the balance between user value and potential risks or unintended consequences. Understanding Eyal's perspectives on the evolving landscape of digital products and the responsibilities of designers in shaping user behavior would be incredibly enlightening and valuable for my work as a designer.

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

MYYSAXW : I enjoy being able to connect with more people who are interested and want to learn more about my work. I love learning from different people and backgrounds and how they apply design in their work.

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

MYYSAXW : I love purple, city and forest, sushi, and spring.

DL: What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

MYYSAXW : Several things can make my day great as a designer. Firstly, solving a challenging design problem or coming up with a creative solution that excites both users and stakeholders is incredibly rewarding. Positive feedback from users or clients also boosts my morale and motivates me to continue striving for excellence. Collaborating with talented colleagues, bouncing ideas off each other, and seeing our collective efforts translate into impactful designs is another source of joy. Additionally, learning something new, whether it's a design technique, a tool, or a trend, keeps me motivated and inspired to grow professionally. Lastly, taking breaks, practicing self-care, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are essential for staying motivated and maintaining creativity in the long run.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

MYYSAXW : I’m definitely bound to be in the creative field. When I was a little child I loved to draw and create art, I even doodled on my test papers and my parents were very mad. I also have a unique ability to empathize with others, discover problems, and find creative ways to solve them.

DL: What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

MYYSAXW : I believe we will have more advanced technology that incorporates good design, are environmentally conscious, inclusive of all backgrounds of people, and is fun and emotionally appealing.