Honest UX Talks by Wix Studio #147 What designers really need to know about business w/ Ryan Rumsey
Aug 12, 2025
Ryan Rumsey, author of "Business Thinking for Designers" and a design leader, explains why designers must master business skills to thrive. He discusses how these skills benefit career sustainability and empower designers in corporate settings. Ryan shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of storytelling in portfolios, and how AI can positively shape the future of design. He advocates for junior designers to cultivate a balance between craft and business acumen while engaging in creative exploration beyond job constraints.
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Know Who Pays And How
- Find out who the company chose as the paying customer, not just the user.
- Learn how the company actually makes money because that funds your salary and choices.
Designer As Showrunner
- Design is a verb for Ryan: he runs creative work like a showrunner.
- That role requires combining creative vision with people and execution skills.
Imposter To Business-Minded Designer
- Ryan felt like an impostor early at Apple but belonged there and learned business rigor.
- Exposure to Apple’s operational discipline showed him how design and business metrics connect.