Sajindas Devidas

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Sajindas Devidas ("SD") 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?

SD : My design journey began with a simple curiosity about how things work and how people use them. I wanted to understand not just the “what,” but the “why” behind people’s choices and actions. That curiosity led me to get certified in Design, and later I dove deeper with a course focused on User Experience (UX). Along the way, I picked up several other certifications, such as AI for product designers, Mobile UX, Accessibility, Gestalt Psychology, Web Design, and Usability Testing. Each one helped me see design from a new angle and gave me more tools to create better experiences. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with different companies, helping them build digital products that aren’t just nice to look at but also easy and enjoyable to use. For me, design is all about making technology feel simple and human.

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

SD : What really drives me to design is knowing that my work can make a real difference in people’s lives. I enjoy the challenge of solving problems and finding ways to make things simpler and more enjoyable for others. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone smile because a product or experience just “clicks” and feels like the best feeling and the biggest motivation for me.

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

SD : I definitely chose to become a designer was never something I was pushed into. Ever since I was a kid, I loved drawing, creating things, and figuring out how to improve them. Design just felt like the perfect way to bring all those interests together and turn them into a career I’m passionate about.

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

SD : I mainly focus on designing digital experiences like websites, apps, and user interfaces. Looking ahead, I’m excited about exploring projects that blend the physical and digital worlds- things like smart devices, interactive installations, and using AI technologies to create more intuitive, connected experiences.

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

SD : Stay curious, keep learning, and always seek feedback. Don’t be afraid to fail; every mistake is a lesson. Build a strong portfolio and network with other designers.

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

SD : The difference between a good designer and a great designer goes far beyond just having technical skills or making things look nice. A good designer can follow guidelines, create attractive layouts, and deliver what’s expected. But a great designer brings something more- they see the bigger picture and think about how every detail connects to the overall experience and purpose. Great designers are always curious and never stop learning. They don’t just stick to what they know; they’re eager to explore new ideas, try new tools, and push creative boundaries. They ask deeper questions like, “Who is this for?” and “How will this make someone’s life better?” and then use those answers to guide every decision they make. Another thing that sets great designers apart is their ability to balance creativity with real-world needs. They understand that design isn’t just about art- it’s also about solving problems for people and meeting business goals at the same time. They listen to feedback, work well with different teams, and are open to changing their approach if it means a better result for the user. Great designers also care deeply about the impact of their work. They want their designs to be meaningful, not just memorable. They pay attention to the smallest details, but they never lose sight of the larger vision. And perhaps most importantly, they’re always looking for ways to improve-not just their designs, but themselves as well. In short, a good designer delivers what’s needed, but a great designer inspires, solves real problems, and creates experiences that truly move people

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

SD : A really good design is intuitive, accessible, and solves a real need. I evaluate design by testing it with real users and seeing if it makes their lives easier.

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

SD : Good design is much more than just making things look attractive’s about creating real value for people and businesses alike. When a product, service, or experience is thoughtfully designed, it becomes easier and more enjoyable to use, which naturally leads to happier customers and stronger loyalty. This user-focused approach helps businesses stand out in a crowded market, making their brand more recognizable and memorable. Investing in good design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a smart business move. Research shows that companies that prioritize design see significant benefits, including higher revenue, faster growth, and better customer retention. For example, a major study found that businesses investing in strong design practices achieved 32% more revenue growth and 56% higher returns to shareholders over five years compared to their competitors. Good design also helps companies launch new products more quickly, reduce customer complaints, and build a positive reputation in their industry In short, good design pays off by making products and services more useful, enjoyable, and successful. That’s why it’s not just a “nice-to-have”-it’s an investment that drives growth, builds trust, and sets businesses apart from the competition

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

SD : If I had unlimited time and resources, I would love to use my skills to design for people and organizations who often get overlooked-especially NGOs and social causes that don’t have the funds to invest in good design. One of my biggest passions is making technology more inclusive, particularly for people with disabilities. I believe everyone should have equal access to digital tools and information, no matter their abilities. I’d focus on creating accessible websites, apps, and resources that are easy to use for people with different needs-whether that means better screen reader compatibility, simpler navigation, or more thoughtful visual design. I’d also love to partner with non-profit organizations and grassroots groups that are making a difference in their communities but might not have the budget to hire a professional designer. By offering my time and expertise, I could help them communicate their message more effectively, reach more people, and have a bigger impact. Ultimately, I’d want to use my design skills to break down barriers and help create a world where technology and information are truly available to everyone, regardless of their background or resources. That’s the kind of work that would be most meaningful to me.

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

SD : If I had to share my secret recipe for success in design, I’d say it’s a mix of empathy, curiosity, and a genuine love for solving problems. My “secret ingredient,” if I had to pick just one, would definitely be empathy. Empathy is what helps me truly understand the people I’m designing for. It’s about putting myself in their shoes, seeing the world from their perspective, and caring about their needs, frustrations, and dreams. Before I start sketching or opening any design tools, I spend time listening to users, asking questions, and really trying to get to the heart of what would make their lives easier or better. That understanding shapes every decision I make, from the smallest button placement to the overall flow of an app or website. But empathy alone isn’t enough. Curiosity keeps me going-I’m always eager to learn about new technologies, trends, and ways of thinking. I love exploring different industries, cultures, and even unrelated fields, because inspiration can come from anywhere. This constant learning helps me stay fresh and creative, and it means I’m always ready to try something new or adapt to change. Finally, I think a big part of my success comes from not being afraid to make mistakes. I see every project as a chance to experiment, learn, and grow. If something doesn’t work, I treat it as feedback, not failure. This mindset helps me keep improving and pushes me to create better and better work.

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

SD : I’m inspired by Dieter Rams, Don Norman, and contemporary designers like Julie Zhuo.

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

SD : One of my favorite examples of great design by another team is Spotify. I admire Spotify’s design because it manages to blend simplicity, beauty, and powerful functionality in a way that feels effortless for the user. What stands out to me most is how intuitive and easy it is to use Spotify, whether you’re on your phone, computer, or even a web browser. The interface is clean and uncluttered, so you never feel overwhelmed-even though there’s a huge amount of music and features available. Navigation is straightforward, with menus and icons that make sense right away, so you can quickly find your favorite songs, create playlists, or discover new music without getting lost. I also love how Spotify personalizes the experience. Features like “Discover Weekly” and “Made for You” playlists use smart recommendations to help you find music you’ll actually enjoy, making the app feel like it really understands your taste. The design supports this by putting these personalized playlists front and center, so they’re easy to access and explore. Finally, I think Spotify does a fantastic job of balancing aesthetics with usability. The vibrant colors, album art, and subtle animations make the experience enjoyable and engaging, while still keeping things simple and accessible for everyone.

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

SD : One of my favorite projects was designing a potluck app to be more accessible. Seeing users with different abilities use it with ease was very rewarding.

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

SD : Keep learning. Take online courses, read books, and get feedback from peers. I also sketch ideas daily to keep my creativity sharp.

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

SD : Maybe a sports person. I was good at all sports.

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

SD : Design is all about creating solutions that make life easier and more enjoyable for people. It means finding ways to solve problems so smoothly and naturally that using the product feels effortless and intuitive.

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

SD : My dad, who believed in my skill set and advised me to start a career in multimedia. And all my mentors, who helped me to shape my career.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

SD : Curiosity, persistence, and always putting users first.

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

SD : Imposter syndrome, tight deadlines, and sometimes, convincing others about the value of good design.

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

SD : I believe designers should present their work by telling a story that brings the project to life. Instead of just showing the final visuals, it’s important to start with the problem you were trying to solve. Talk about who the users are, what challenges they faced, and why this project mattered. Sharing the context helps people connect with your work on a deeper level and see the real-world impact your design could have. After setting the stage, walk your audience through your creative process. Explain the steps you took, the ideas you explored, and even the challenges or setbacks you faced along the way. Show sketches, wireframes, or prototypes to illustrate how your thinking evolved. Most importantly, highlight how your final design addresses the original problem and makes things better for the user. This way, you’re not just showing what you made-you’re sharing the journey and the reasoning behind every decision, which makes your work more meaningful and memorable.

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

SD : My next design project is focused on exploring the future of Zero UI-designing experiences where screens and traditional interfaces fade into the background, and technology becomes almost invisible in our daily lives. I’m working on creating products that use voice, gesture, and environmental sensors so people can interact naturally, just by speaking, moving, or even through their presence, without ever having to touch a screen or press a button. Imagine walking into a room and having the lights, music, or even your calendar adjust automatically based on your mood or routine, all without you having to do anything consciously. You can expect me to dive deep into how technology can better understand context and adapt to people’s needs-whether that’s in smart homes, cars, or public spaces. My goal is to design experiences that feel effortless and intuitive, where the technology simply “gets” what you want and responds instantly, making life smoother and more enjoyable. In the future, I see myself working on projects that blend AI, ambient computing, and Zero UI principles to create environments that are truly responsive and human-centered, helping people connect with technology in ways that feel natural, seamless, and even a little bit magical.

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

SD : To create products that make a positive difference in people’s daily lives.

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

SD : They expect me to be creative, reliable, and always focused on the user’s needs.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

SD : Good design makes information and services accessible to all, breaking down barriers and improving quality of life.

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

SD : Currently, working on a banking app where we are including AI features along with WCAG 2.0 updates.

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

SD : One of the design projects that gave me the most satisfaction was creating the DoPotluck App. This project was especially meaningful to me because it started as just an idea in my mind, and I spent countless hours turning that idea into a real, functioning digital app. The process was both challenging and incredibly rewarding. What made DoPotluck so satisfying was seeing how my efforts could solve real problems for users. I wanted to create an app that made it easy for people to organize potluck events, share recipes, and connect over food without the usual confusion and hassle. I focused on making the user experience smooth and intuitive, so anyone could use it regardless of their tech skills. Every feature, from recipe sharing to event planning and notifications, was designed with the user’s needs in mind. Watching people use the app and hearing their positive feedback made all the late nights and problem-solving worth it. It was a true labor of love, and seeing my idea come to life as a helpful tool for others was incredibly fulfilling

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

SD : More diversity and inclusion, both in teams and in the products we make.

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

SD : Towards more personalization, AI-driven experiences, and sustainability.

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

SD : It depends, but usually a few weeks to a few months, depending on complexity.

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

SD : I start by understanding the users and the problem we’re trying to solve.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

SD : Design with empathy, always.

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

SD : It’s a bit of both- designers inspire trends, but trends also influence design.

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

SD : Technology is like both my toolbox and my playground-it gives me the means to bring ideas to life, experiment with new possibilities, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in design. It helps me create more interactive, accessible, and seamless experiences for users.

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

SD : I use Figma for digital design, along with Photoshop and Illustrator for visuals. For quick ideas, nothing beats a good old notebook and pen, and I rely on a reliable laptop and sometimes a tablet for sketching on the go.

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

SD : Color, materials, and ambiance set the mood and tone of a design- they can make something feel warm and welcoming or sleek and professional. I use them thoughtfully to guide emotions, create focus, and make the experience memorable and enjoyable.

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

SD : I wish people would ask, “How does this help someone in their everyday life?” rather than just focusing on how it looks, because for me, the real magic of design is in how it makes things easier and better for people.

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

SD : When I see a great design, I’m always curious about the story behind what problem it solves, how the team came up with the idea, and what I can learn from their process to improve my own work?

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

SD : My ideal design partner is someone open-minded, collaborative, and not afraid to challenge my ideas. I absolutely believe in co-design-working together always leads to richer, more creative solutions. Design is a team effort.

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

SD : Mentors, teammates, and even users have had the biggest influence on my design journey. Their feedback, encouragement, and real-life stories have shaped how I think and create.

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

SD : Books like “The Design of Everyday Things” by Don Norman and “Don’t Make Me Think” by Steve Krug really opened my eyes to the importance of usability and empathy in design.

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

SD : I honed my skills by practicing every day, seeking feedback, learning from mistakes, and always staying curious about new trends and technologies in the design world.

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

SD : Awards and recognition are wonderful, but for me, the real reward is knowing my work helps people. I don’t focus on fame; I just want to keep making a positive impact.

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

SD : My favorite color is blue (dark shade), I love being by nature in a small cottage, Briyani is my go-to comfort food, spring is my favorite season, I cherish my sketchbook, and I admire Apple for their design philosophy.

DL: Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

SD : When I released my first app with over one year of hard work, the very first feedback I received was "The app has a bad UX" from a home maker. lol

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

SD : My day feels great when I see a user genuinely enjoying something I’ve created. I stay motivated by reminding myself that every small improvement can make someone’s life a little easier.

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

SD : Looking back, I was always drawing, building things, and asking “why,” so maybe it was obvious to everyone but me that I’d end up in design!

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

SD : A thousand years from now, I hope design will help us live more harmoniously with each other and with our planet- and maybe even help us connect with life beyond Earth.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

SD : I want people to know that I design with heart and empathy, always aiming to make life a bit simpler and more joyful. I’m grateful for everyone who supports and inspires me, and I hope my work encourages others to create and dream big, too.