Finding Our Way

Teresa Torres, a product discovery coach and author of "Continuous Discovery Habits," dives deep into the messy realm of organizational change. She discusses how individual contributors can ignite transformation in resistant environments and highlights the blurred lines between product, design, and engineering roles brought on by AI. With insights on fostering collaboration in cross-functional teams, Teresa emphasizes the need for leaders to engage directly with their teams to drive meaningful outcomes and to cultivate a culture of continuous discovery.

Dr. Lesley-Ann Noel, Dean of Design at OCAD and author of 'Design Social Change,' shares her inspiring journey from Trinidad to Toronto. She dives into the dynamic relationship between design education and social change, emphasizing the importance of building community and fostering innovation. Discussing the challenges of decolonizing design, Dr. Noel advocates for curricula that blend practical skills with critical thinking. She highlights how designers can drive social justice and contribute to positive societal transformation.

This chat features John Gleason, a design and business consultant with a rich background in diverse design fields. He candidly discusses the declining influence of design leaders, stressing that many organizations treat design as a secondary function. Gleason shares insights on the disconnect between design and executive leadership, highlighting the challenges of shifting perceptions. He advocates for design as a strategic asset vital for innovation and organizational change, encouraging designers to empathize with stakeholders while navigating corporate pressures.

Explore how AI is reshaping design teams and revealing the true value of UX roles. Discover why effective prompt crafting is crucial for success and how timeless design principles still hold importance. The discussion highlights the evolving skills needed in an AI-driven world while reflecting on the historical context of user interfaces. Delve into the power dynamics that emerge when integrating AI and learn why specialized tools may be favored over infinitely customizable options. This conversation is packed with insights for design leaders navigating technology's impact.

Amy Lokey, Chief Experience Officer at ServiceNow, dives into her vital role in unifying product and customer experiences. She discusses innovative approaches to measuring user experience, emphasizing the blend of qualitative and quantitative metrics. Lokey also tackles the transformative impact of AI on design processes, stressing the importance of ethical standards in technology. Additionally, she shares her personal growth journey as a leader, highlighting the dynamic interplay of design, marketing, and human psychology in creating meaningful user interactions.

In this conversation, Dr. Sara Beckman, a UC Berkeley professor and expert on design and innovation, dives into the evolving relationship between design and product management. She critiques traditional metrics and advocates for a deeper understanding of customer experiences. Sara discusses the importance of collaboration between designers and product managers, emphasizing qualitative measures for success. She also highlights how design thinking needs to adapt to modern challenges, stressing cultural shifts and the integration of AI to foster innovation.

Todd Wilkens, a former leader at Adaptive Path, shares his insights on the integration of design, product, and technology. He discusses the 'maker mindset' essential for hands-on product leadership and the importance of understanding customer needs. Todd highlights the challenges of scaling mid-sized companies while ensuring team alignment and effective decision-making. He also emphasizes the synergy between design, engineering, and product management, advocating for designers to take on leadership roles to enhance user experience.

In this conversation, Roger L. Martin, a renowned business strategist and former dean at the Rotman School of Management, discusses the evolving relationship between design and business. He delves into how Aristotle's principles can inspire innovative problem-solving beyond historical data. Roger critiques traditional business education's shortcomings and emphasizes the necessity for community-centric design amidst the Silicon Valley layoffs. He encourages embracing anomalies and fostering creativity to drive meaningful change within organizations.

Peter Skillman, Head of Philips Design, discusses lessons learned from a century of design innovation at Philips. He highlights the evolution from consumer electronics to healthcare technology, emphasizing the role of empathy in design. Skillman shares insights on the changing landscape for design leaders, the importance of purpose, and the integration of AI in design workflows. He also recounts a poignant story about a defibrillator's life-saving impact, underscoring the emotional connections in design work and the need for effective leadership.

In this insightful conversation, Audrey Crane, a partner at Design Map and a seasoned Silicon Valley consultant, shares her expertise on the evolving landscape of design. She highlights the changing mandates for design, explaining the unique power consultants have over in-house teams. Audrey discusses the intersection of creativity and constraints, the evolution of design leadership roles, and the urgent need for better collaboration between design and product teams. She also addresses the concerning decline in design investment and its potential industry repercussions.