Getting2Alpha Irene Au on design leadership and experience-driven organizations
Aug 31, 2016
Irene Au, a design leader and UX expert who has shaped user experiences at Netscape, Yahoo, Google, and Udacity, shares her insights into enhancing design practices in startups. She discusses her journey from math enthusiast to design pioneer, emphasizing the importance of user-centered design. Irene highlights the dynamic nature of leadership in tech and the significance of mentorship in startups. She also explores the impact of AI on design and advocates for a mindful approach that prioritizes humanity in technology.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Irene's Career Pivot Story
- Irene Au pivoted from electrical engineering to human-computer interaction inspired by research minimizing human error in critical systems.
- She applied interdisciplinary skills early, blending coding with design thinking, landing her first job at Netscape.
Stage-Specific Design Strategies
- Tailor design strategies to a startup's stage, from building teams to embedding user research and fostering design culture.
- Focus on iterative prototyping, user testing, and creating a customer-centered company mindset for success.
Avoid User Disconnect
- Avoid disconnect between companies and users by observing real user behavior rather than relying on assumptions or just asking users what they want.
- Select a focused user segment whose problems authentically inspire and direct your technology development.
