My Role
UX / UI Designer
User Research / Wireframing / Prototype / Usability Testing / Visual Design/ Animation Design
Team
- PM *1
- Marketing *5
- Graphic designer *3
- Frontend Engineer *6
- Backend Engineer *2
- QA Engineer *2
Challenges
When I joined the company, I identified two key challenges:
- Incomplete Design System: The existing design system lacked structure and consistency.
- Communication Gaps: There was a significant communication disconnect between the design and engineering teams.
Outcomes
- Design System Completion: I developed a comprehensive design system, introducing reusable components that ensured consistency and efficiency across all products.
- Improved Communication: By enhancing interdepartmental communication, we reduced miscommunication by 50%.
Design System Development
Upon reviewing the previous design files, I took the initiative to build a comprehensive design system from the ground up. This system incorporated reusable components, streamlining the design process and creating a consistent user experience across all platforms.
Enhancing Communication
To tackle the communication challenges, I proactively reached out to the engineering team to understand their workflow. Establishing strong relationships, I introduced my design process, and demonstrated how to inspect designs, export assets, and more. This initiative not only saved time but also significantly reduced misunderstandings between teams.
When technical challenges arose, we collaborated closely, finding solutions that respected both design integrity and technical constraints. This collaborative approach led to innovative solutions that met our design objectives while adhering to technical limitations.
Fostering a Positive Collaborative Environment
This level of collaboration was a first for the team. Engineers began sharing their processes openly and actively engaged in discussions with the design team, leading to a more integrated and efficient workflow.
“In my 10 years of experience, I’ve never seen such seamless collaboration between engineers and designers. This new approach has transformed the way we work together.”
Sonny, Customer service manager
Lessons Learned
This experience underscored the importance of communication in cross-functional teams. Clear and consistent communication was crucial in navigating complex challenges, preventing major issues, and ensuring everyone was aligned toward common goals. While demanding, this approach proved invaluable, driving both personal growth and team success.
