Niche Marketing

I offer a single bit of advice to friends and family when they become new parents: When you start to think that you’ve got everything figured out, everything will change. Just as you start to get the hang of feedings, diapers, and regular naps, it’s time for solid food, potty training, and overnight sleeping. When you figure those out, it’s time for preschool and rare naps. The cycle goes on and on. The same applies for those of us working in design and development these days. Having […]

In reading Joe Dolson’s recent piece on the intersection of AI and accessibility, I absolutely appreciated the skepticism that he has for AI in general as well as for the ways that many have been using it. In fact, I’m very skeptical of AI myself, despite my role at Microsoft as an accessibility innovation strategist who helps run the AI for Accessibility grant program. As with any tool, AI can be used in very constructive, inclusive, and accessible ways; and it can also be used in destructive, […]

I am a creative. What I do is alchemy. It is a mystery. I do not so much do it, as let it be done through me. I am a creative. Not all creative people like this label. Not all see themselves this way. Some creative people see science in what they do. That is their truth, and I respect it. Maybe I even envy them, a little. But my process is different—my being is different. Apologizing and qualifying in advance is a distraction. That’s what my […]

Ever since I was a boy, I’ve been fascinated with movies. I loved the characters and the excitement—but most of all the stories. I wanted to be an actor. And I believed that I’d get to do the things that Indiana Jones did and go on exciting adventures. I even dreamed up ideas for movies that my friends and I could make and star in. But they never went any further. I did, however, end up working in user experience (UX). Now, I realize that there’s an […]

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to neglect our own well-being in favor of meeting deadlines, fulfilling responsibilities, and juggling multiple commitments. However, taking care of ourselves is crucial for maintaining our physical, emotional, and mental health. The art of self-care is all about prioritizing your own well-being and making time for activities that nourish and rejuvenate you. Here are some tips for incorporating self-care into your daily routine: 1. Schedule regular “me time”: Carve out time in your schedule for activities that bring you […]

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking experiences, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can increase your chances of success. Here are 10 essential tips for a successful job interview: 1. Research the company: Before your interview, take the time to research the company. Learn about its history, mission, values, products or services, and recent news or developments. This will show the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the company and have taken the time to prepare. 2. Practice your answers: Prepare answers to common interview […]

Effective communication is crucial in all aspects of our lives, whether it be in our personal relationships, at work, or in social situations. Good communication skills can help us to build strong relationships, resolve conflicts, and achieve our goals. However, many of us struggle with communication, whether it be because of shyness, lack of confidence, or simply not knowing how to effectively convey our thoughts and feelings. To help you become a better communicator, here are some dos and don’ts of effective communication: Do: Listen actively One […]

Feedback, in whichever form it takes, and whatever it may be called, is one of the most effective soft skills that we have at our disposal to collaboratively get our designs to a better place while growing our own skills and perspectives. Feedback is also one of the most underestimated tools, and often by assuming that we’re already good at it, we settle, forgetting that it’s a skill that can be trained, grown, and improved. Poor feedback can create confusion in projects, bring down morale, and affect […]