ELEVATING DESIGN’S EFFECTIVENESS

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Ascentis is a SAAS company now owned by UKG providing Human Resources and Workforce management applications to a large number of companies, including: Dairy Queen, Wells Fargo, Nissan and First Home Mortgage.

This is the story of how I increased what had historically been anemic engagement of the mobile application to a 40%+ engagement increase every quarter starting in Fall 2019.
 

I accomplished this by leading the design team in applying a rebrand to the mobile applications, moving the information architecture from a hierarchy of nouns to a web of links and added a feed so companies could share important HR information, as well as social information to increase employee engagement.

A book I wrote containing 21 important user behaviors that designers can utilize to improve their work. It tells them what the concept is, why it matters to them, gives them an example of how it could be used; and then has references to relevant books, papers and research.

#1 new release on Amazon  in User Experience and Web Usability and in Industrial and Product Design for the week it was released.

My leadership philosophy is anchored in the principles of servant leadership, emphasizing the importance of meeting my team's needs. As a player-coach, I not only guide from the sidelines but also actively participate in the field, setting an example through direct involvement in projects. This dual role fosters an environment ripe for creativity, innovation, and timely delivery. I strive for a balance between meeting urgent deadlines and providing space for innovative thinking, enhancing our collaborative culture and competitive edge. Our open culture of idea exchange and innovation ensures we remain agile and competitive in today's fast-paced market.

In the realm of design, my approach combines swift execution with strategic alignment to company goals, steering clear of the "design theater" that can delay progress. Working closely with Product and Engineering teams, I develop a Product Design Roadmap, ensuring our design efforts align with company objectives and are efficiently executed. Through daily interactions, whether meetings or Slack, I encourage open communication and teamwork. As a player-coach, I'm deeply involved in these processes, contributing directly to our projects and facilitating a culture of continuous learning and improvement. This keeps my team motivated, engaged, and well-supported in their professional development and collective success.

My commitment to accessibility and continuous growth is evident through open lines of communication and a learning-oriented environment. Prioritizing immediate support, I foster a culture of trust and mutual respect. This approach encourages my team to take ownership of their projects and collaborate effectively across functions. My hiring philosophy emphasizes empathy, curiosity, and the ability to constructively navigate workplace conflicts, ensuring new hires are not only skilled but also fit well within our collaborative and innovative culture. As a player-coach, I lead by example, contributing to both the personal growth of each team member and the collective achievements of our design team in meeting and exceeding our strategic objectives.