The Informed Life

Jodi Forlizzi, a leader in Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon, discusses the evolving landscape of design amid AI advancements. She explores how designers must adapt to new technologies, highlighting the necessity of creativity and ethical considerations in their work. The conversation delves into the importance of holistic systems in areas like elder care and hospitality, emphasizing the need for educational reforms in design to prepare future talent. Forlizzi also shares insights on collaboration and her upcoming book 'Unremarkable AI,' focusing on design education.

Greg Petroff, a celebrated executive design leader known for his work at GE, Google, and Cisco, discusses the evolving landscape of design. He emphasizes the importance of a 'Possibilitarian' mindset for designers facing industry challenges. The conversation dives into adaptive thinking and playful experimentation as keys to fostering innovation. Greg also addresses the impact of AI on design practices, advocating for intentional user-focused strategies. His insights encourage designers to embrace new ventures and engage more actively in shaping the future.

Colin Eagan and Jeffrey MacIntyre discuss personalization in design and user experience, exploring the spectrum of technology personalization and the impacts of AI-driven personalization in businesses. They highlight ethical dimensions, system capabilities, and tools for teams in the evolving landscape of personalization design.

Harry Max, an executive player coach, shares insights from his book Managing Priorities, focusing on practical prioritization strategies for individuals and organizations. He discusses the importance of clear communication, strategic decision-making, and leadership in navigating complex challenges. The podcast also explores the parallels between satellite operations and coaching, emphasizing the significance of clarity and precision in execution.

Stéphanie Walter, a UX researcher and designer, discusses her journey in UX research, creative side projects, and promoting neurodiversity through Neurospicy. She shares insights on the importance of inclusive design, embracing uncertainty, and focusing on joy and personal growth in times of disruption.

Rachel Price, Principal Information Architect at Microsoft, discusses responsible AI design. Topics include managing content challenges, generative AI impact on users, advocating for responsible AI practices in product design, navigating pitfalls of new technology, and understanding responsible AI stewardship essentials.

Design leader Emily Campbell discusses developing a pattern language for working with AI, importance of multidisciplinary approaches, visual and interactive patterns in AI technology, conversational design evolution, and empowering individuals to engage with data.

Chris Aldrich, a modern-day cybernetician with a diverse background, discusses cybernetics, communications, oral vs. literary cultures, Indigenous traditions, and mnemonic techniques. He explores the evolution of numerical systems, associative memory, information organization, and the importance of historical grounding for innovation in online presence.

Dave Gray, author and founder of XPLANE, talks about moving beyond mental models to embrace new possibilities. Topics include sketching ideas, creating customers within job settings, prototyping, demonstrating expertise online, and the concept of a school focused on the art of the possible.

Nikki Anderson, a user research expert, discusses the importance of research operations. Topics include navigating loneliness in research, effective communication, setting up foundations for research, empathy for stakeholders, and valuable resources for research practices.