Section 1: Overall Objectives
Summarise your design practice for this coming year
In the upcoming year, my focus will be within the domain of design practice will be dedicated to the field of UX/UI design. Recognising the ever-evolving nature of technology and the expectations of the users, my goal is not only to stay current with the latest design trends and methodologies but also to enhance my process significantly. I plan to delve deeper into refining my design process by incorporating a more robust research into the initial stages of the project, conduct thorough usability testing, and embrace new design methods.
Furthermore, I am enthusiastic about extending my focus beyond the user interface itself and incorporating a comprehensive approach to design. This involves working on branding elements to ensure a cohesive and compelling visual identity. By investing time and effort in understanding brand strategies, storytelling, and visual aesthetics, I will be able to employ design solutions that not only improve the usability but also contribute to a brand’s overall narrative and recognition.
I hope to improve my UX/UI design skills through a combination of ongoing learning, hands-on experience, and a dedication to improving both my design process and branding. This holistic approach will enable me to make a meaningful contribution to the ever-changing landscape of digital design and craft experiences that resonate with users while remaining consistent with the overall brand identity.
What do you intend to do and how will you achieve this?
In order to achieve this I have outlined a strategic plan for the upcoming year.
Continuous Learning: I will follow UX/UI tutorials, stay informed through various channels such as blog posts, research papers and online books to keep up to date with the latest industry trends and emerging design methodologies. This will involve dedicating a few hours each week to focused learning and working towards my EPA through my modules.
Practical Application: I plan to actively engage in hands-on projects, including personal design challenges and real-world projects within my workplace. By immersing myself in practical applications, I hope to reinforce theoretical knowledge, improve my problem-solving abilities, and develop a strong portfolio showcasing a variety of design solutions.
Feedback Integration: Getting feedback from both my tutors, employers, collegues and the client and actioning any points into my design process will be a priority. This will involve hosting periodic check ins to conducting usability testing, gathering user insights, and altering my design work based on feedback. I will also seek opportunities to collaborate with potential end-users to ensure the usability and effectiveness of my designs.
Design Methods: Embracing iterative design methodologies, such as Agile or Design Thinking, will become a cornerstone of my approach. Agile solves predefined problems quickly, while design thinking identifies the right problems to solve and helps product teams better understand the user journey (Agile vs design thinking: Key differences and similarities). This will involve breaking down my project into smaller and manageable segments. Allowing the opportunity for continuous refinement and improvement throughout the design process.
Brand Strategy Immersion: To better understand branding, I plan to read books on brand strategy, storytelling, and visual identity. Furthermore, I intend to work with branding professionals by following guided tutorials and online courses and actively demonstarting my learning through my project work.
Time Management: For me time management will be very important in ensuring that I get all of my module work submitted in time before deadlines. Ensuring that I follow a structured approach, by implementing an effective time management strategy that suits me. Potential methods I could use include; Pareto Analysis (a.k.a., the 80/20 rule), Pomodoro Technique, Eisenhower Matrix, Parkinson’s Law, Time Blocking Method, Getting Things Done (GTD) Method, Rapid Planning Method (RPM), Pickle Jar Theory or Eat That Frog Technique are 9 possible options listed by (Mozafaripour, 2019)
What are the strengths and weaknesses of what you want to do?
Strengths
- Holistic Skill Development: The plan integrates various aspects of design, including UX/UI design, branding, and iterative methodologies, fostering a holistic skill set.
- Continuous Learning: Using research materials and resources while staying up-to-date on industry trends demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning, which ensures relevance in a rapidly changing field.
- Practical Application: Continuing to work on projects within my workplace allows for the practical application of theoretical knowledge, strengthening problem-solving abilities, and consolidating my knowledge.
- User-Centric Approach: Incorporating regular feedback sessions and design methods demonstrates a commitment to developing user-centric solutions, which improves design usability and effectiveness.
- Structured Approach: Implementing time management strategies and setting SMART targets promotes a structured approach, helping to maintain focus and track progress effectively.
Weaknesses
- Resource Dependence: Depending on external courses and workshops may introduce a potential weakness if the quality or availability of these resources is inconsistent or out of date.
- Overcommitment Risk: Taking on too much work simultaneously may lead to overcommitment, potentially affecting the quality of work and the ability to meet deadlines.
- Balancing Act: Balancing time between learning and practical application may be challenging, requiring careful prioritisation and time management strategies to avoid neglecting any aspect.
How will you play to your strengths and overcome your weaknesses?
To overcome reliance on potentially outdate resources for research I will ensure that look out for up to date websites that show the latest trends and developments. To overcome other commitments, I will use my strengths in following a systematic approach and creating a to-do list within my practical application. This will ensure that I complete tasks on time while maintaining a high standard and remaining organised throughout.
Section 2: Skills, Knowledge & Experience
Time & Project Management
For me time management will be a priority and to do so I will develop effective time management skills. This skill will involve identifying and ranking tasks based on their urgency and importance. Another crucial aspect will be goal setting, where I will follow the SMART framework to set objectives for clearer direction and progress tracking.
Building and working on my time management will also come from experience which will come from working on this project but also through direct experience and involvement with project management in my workplace, even if at a small scale. This will help me to comprehend the various components involved in effective time utilisation. Developing adaptability to unforeseen circumstances and learning from setbacks throughout the timeframe will also contribute to an overall improvement in time management strategies.
To help evolve my skills, knowledge and experience for time management I will make use of resources such as books, online courses, or workshops to provide foundational knowledge and techniques. The application of time management skills to my project and also small-scale projects will allows for experimentation with different strategies.
Brand Identity
I will focus on staying updated with design trends, explore color psychology, and typography. Practical experience in brand identity projects will deepen my understanding of conveying messages visually. To augment my skills, I’ll utilise resources like design publications, online courses, and workshops. Seeking feedback from peers and engaging in real-world projects will contribute to continuous improvement and adaptability.
UX/UI Design
I am committed to elevating my proficiency in UX/UI design through active involvement in diverse website design projects within my workplace. The completion of both workplace projects and personal endeavors will expose me to a multitude of challenges, fostering adaptability to varying project briefs. Maintaining awareness of current design trends is critical to my development, and I intend to accomplish this by regularly exploring design blogs and drawing inspiration from accomplished designers on platforms such as Behance.
In my pursuit of skill development, I aspire to think creatively while prioritising user requirements. I aim to provide modern and innovative solutions while striking a balance between unconventional design approaches and user expectations. To achieve this, I will conduct thorough research and exploration of design elements that align with ongoing projects, ensuring not only skill development but also the practical application of knowledge in real-world scenarios. This multifaceted approach will not only improve my skills, but will also help to build a solid foundation of knowledge and experience in the dynamic field of UX/UI design.
Section 3: Processes and Method
What workflows will you need to use?
When working on my van racking branding and UX/UI design project it will be essential to my learning and development that I adapt a thoughtful approach through well-defined workflows. At the beginning stages I will undertake comprehensive research and essential discovery, During my project development I will delving into market dynamics, user personas, and competitor landscapes. This foundational research will guide future decisions and ensure that they are in line with the needs and preferences of the target audience.
When working on the commercial realisation module, I will create my brand identity. This stage of the project will be critical in establishing a strong online presence. My employers have made it clear that they want a robust and impactful solution that will help them build strong brand recognition whilst the business is starting up. Crafting a memorable logo, selecting an appropriate color palette, and defining typography will all contribute to the cohesive brand image. Seamless integration of these brand elements into the UX/UI design goals is imperative for creating an engaging and consistent user experience.
When I begin the UX/UI design phase, I prioritise the creation of wireframes. These blueprints will outline the structural framework and user interactions, evolving through iterative processes based on user feedback. Prototyping and high-fidelity mockups will further refine the envisioned user journey to ensure alignment with business objectives and my project goals.
Testing and quality assurance throughout the project will serve as pivotal checkpoints, identifying and rectifying any improvements to be made and/or design inconsistencies. Using these thoroughly organised workflows, the van racking online platform can achieve a harmonious integration of branding and UX/UI design, providing users with an intuitive and visually appealing experience.
Will you try different working methods?
Throughout my last year project I want to be able to try new and different working methods to enhance my workflow and improve the quality of my work and grow in my career. Navigating the challenges of balancing college work and a day job, I recognise for me personally the pivotal role of project time management. How well I manage time has a direct impact on the efficiency of my work, and it is critical in meeting academic module deadlines and then applying learned time management skills to my professional role. To address time management and organisation I will explore tailored working methods for effective time management. I will try implementing the Pomodoro Technique which provides structured intervals for focused work, aiding in sequencing activities and estimating project durations. I will look into using The Eisenhower Matrix assists in prioritising tasks based on urgency and importance, ensuring a strategic approach to time allocation to see if this works for me and my workflow. Utilising time tracking software will enhance my accountability and provides insights into time utilisation, facilitating continuous improvement. Using Kanban Boards could help me to visualise project progress and manage my workflow efficiently, particularly beneficial in balancing personal and professional obligations. By trying these methods I can create a planned and strategic approach for my project, allowing me to achieve my objectives despite a busy and demanding schedule.
How do you best get your work done?
To best get my work done I ensure I follow a systematic approach to managing tasks efficiently, especially under pressure and when working for clients, I employ a multifaceted approach. Firstly, setting the groundwork through thorough research is paramount. By immersing myself in the project’s context, understanding client expectations, and exploring inspirational sources, I lay a solid foundation for creative ideation.
When working under pressure, collaboration with colleagues becomes a valuable asset. Seeking assistance and leveraging collective expertise fosters innovative problem-solving and ensures that the project benefits from diverse perspectives. I also remain a strict workflow in completing task laid out for me almost like a to do list which I find works best for me. I ensure that each task is completed to the best of my ability before moving on with another task.
Furthermore, I maintain open lines of communication with clients that I am working with. Regular updates, clarifications, and feedback loops ensure alignment with client expectations, leading to a more satisfactory end result. Balancing the creative vision with client requirements is key to delivering a product that not only meets design standards but also fulfills the client’s objectives.
My approach involves setting a robust foundation through research and searching for inspiration, collaborating with colleagues to leverage collective strengths, sticking to a to do list structure and maintaining transparent communication with clients to navigate projects efficiently. This strategy allows me to deliver high-quality work while meeting deadlines and meeting client expectations.
Section 4 : Possible Collaborators
Who do you need to work with at work?
The collaboration with Alice and Ben at work is essential. As the project coordinator, Alice will be crucial in helping with the planning of the project, coordinating it with the brief, and making sure it continues on course. Her knowledge is crucial to preserving the cohesiveness of the project. Ben, on the other hand, offers crucial perspectives on the client and the product, which makes his expertise crucial for improving the UX design.
Can you gather primary research from colleagues?
Their insights, experiences, and perspectives will provide firsthand information that can enhance my understanding of specific aspects related to the project. By conducting surveys, informal conversations with my coworkers, or meetings I will obtain information directly from people in my immediate environment. This firsthand knowledge could greatly influence my project’s strategy, choices, and general methodology, resulting in a more thorough and knowledgeable conclusion.
Who at your workplace will/can give you feedback?
Throughout the project, I anticipate receiving valuable feedback from both Alice and Ben, Alice with the logistics of the project such as time keeping and project progress and Ben with design knowledge. Both of these colleagues will provide insights that will contribute to refining and optimising our approach.
Section 5: Commercial Context
How does this year fit into the skills you need at work?
This year will help in the continuous development of my professionalism and the refinement of essential skills in UX/UI design for website and software design within my role. The industry’s dynamic nature requires an ongoing commitment to staying current on emerging trends and technological advancements. By actively engaging in professional development opportunities such as demonstrations, 1-1 guided tutorials, online guides, and design forums,I anticipate that I will not only broaden my knowledge base, but also improve my ability to incorporate innovative design principles into my projects.
Through hands-on experiences and collaborations with project I will be working on, I am strengthening my problem-solving skills, enhancing my adaptability to evolving project requirements, and gaining valuable insights into user behavior. This active participation is critical in developing a versatile skill set that is compatible with the changing demands of website and software design.
Additionally, my focus this year includes fostering effective communication and collaboration within the workplace. By actively seeking and incorporating feedback from colleagues and clients, I am refining my design solutions and ensuring they align not only with industry best practices but also with the specific needs and goals of the projects I’m involved in.
This year will be beneficial to my professional journey, dedicated to expanding my skills, deepening my understanding of UX/UI design, and strengthening the skills required for success in web and software design. It’s an important phase of development and adaptation that will allow me to contribute meaningfully to my role and deliver impactful design solutions.
What are your end goals following graduation?
Following graduation, my overarching goal is to advance within my company by taking on a more managerial role. I hope to take on more responsibilities and play a more strategic role in directing design projects to success. I intend to immerse myself in ongoing learning opportunities, including possibly enrolling in a development course to further my understanding and proficiency in website creation. This dual-track approach, which combines managerial goals with a commitment to skill development, seeks to position me as a well-rounded professional capable of significantly contributing to the growth and success of both my career and the projects I work on.
What will you need to do or learn in order to take your next step?
To take this next step, I will need to expand my skill set and redefine my workflow to ensure effective time management in a client project. These will aid in my ongoing professional development by providing additional experience and allowing me to participate in larger projects. The skills, knowledge, and experiences gained throughout the course can be applied to other courses I choose to take in the future, such as a course in learning development.
Section 6: Possible sources of research
Which books or journals might you use?
When sourcing books and journals for my research I will look on the online library aswell as journals available online. The books I will specifically looking at will relate to brand design and UX/UI designs. Some noteworthy books I plan to look at are :
- “Designing Brand Identity” by Alina Wheeler: A comprehensive guide covering various aspects of brand design, from strategy to execution.
- “Logo Design Love” by David Airey: Focuses on logo design principles and best practices, offering practical insights for creating memorable and effective logos.
- How to Launch a Brand” by Fabian Geyrhalter: Provides a step-by-step guide to launching a brand, offering practical tips and real-world examples.
- “Don’t Make Me Think” by Steve Krug : A classic in UX design, offering practical advice on creating intuitive and user-friendly interfaces.
- “The Elements of User Experience” by Jesse James Garrett : Breaks down the components of user experience design, offering a framework for understanding and implementing effective UX strategies.
Further books and journals will become apparent when Im looking into specific elements within my project.
Using any podcasts or websites? Which documentaries might you watch? Or YouTube channels?
Having my own design Instagram account I follow a number of inspiring designers that I look up to I specifically like the works of @itsabiconnick, @clubcreative, @cj.cawley.design these designers all create social media content in branding which I find very inspiring specifically Abi and CJ create guided youtube tutorials and short Instagram reels with tips and tricks.
Section 7: Anticipated problems or specialist needs/access to resources
The only significant issue I see is that balancing time between a full-time job and personal projects will be difficult; this will necessitate disciplined organisation and effective time management. To overcome this, I plan to implement strategies such as setting clear priorities, creating realistic schedules, and breaking down tasks into manageable chunks. Establishing a routine that designates specific times for work, personal projects, and potential downtime will be essential in maintaining productivity and preventing burnout. Communication with superiors and colleagues is essential to ensure mutual understanding of project demands and to seek their support in allocating time for my degree work. Negotiating dedicated time slots during downtime or between client projects is one approach, and seeking their feedback will be instrumental in achieving my own goals and my project specifics.
Additionally, to address any potential gaps in skills or knowledge, seeking mentorship or additional training might be beneficial. Accessing resources within or outside the workplace, such as online courses or workshops, can provide valuable insights and enhance proficiency in specific areas. Open communication with colleagues or mentors can also serve as a valuable source of guidance and support.
References:
Agile vs design thinking: Key differences and similarities (no date) Agile vs Design Thinking: Key Differences and Similarities. Available at: https://www.hotjar.com/design-thinking/agile/ (Accessed: 09 February 2024).
Mozafaripour, S. (2019) 9 popular time management techniques and tools: USAHS, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Available at: https://www.usa.edu/blog/time-management-techniques/ (Accessed: 09 February 2024).