Classically Trained.
I was trained as a designer in the U.K. with the study of aesthetics and manufacture for consumers, I work in the USA to hone the craft in various corporations and agencies. I designed within, and led product teams to take innovative consumer led concepts through to manufacture and market – producing winning products and ultimately consumer experiences. Additional experience in business and marketing enables me to step back and connect to the bigger picture. I think about new product design in a strategic manner that works for the longterm.
Material Craft.
Designing products that are really appealing to consumers yet can be easily manufactured was a significant aspect of British education. Sometimes designers were confused with engineers, but it is essential to comprehend the differences between design and engineering. I have expertise in metals, plastics, and fabrics. In addition to materials, I also possess knowledge and wisdom of process and production techniques from the real world applications. This understanding allows me to create realistic designs quicker and get them to production with higher quality. In recent years, I have also focused on enhancing my knowledge of fabric and design for cut and sew, enabling me to introduce projects in soft and hybrid goods.
Fast Traction
The development process is fast and iterative. Sketching is my starting point because it is a quick and effective way of communicating a pure idea or concept direction between various stakeholders, including product managers, clients, teams, and designers. I sketch ideas or visually plans or flowcharts, and discuss and critique them to quickly come up with directions for further work .
Creating to conquer.
Even with today’s technologies, I find that making physical prototypes using different materials helps us learn quickly and identify issues that we wouldn’t have found by only using computer-aided design (CAD). Entrepreneurs refer to this process of redefining their business plan as “pivoting” when they encounter a crucial turning point. Personally, I enjoy creating prototypes using flexible methods to address these issues and make well-informed design decisions. Tools such as paper mockups, foam, sewing, and 3D printing are essential in trying and communicating ideas, learning, and development. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge in design for manufacture which prototyping is also invaluable for.
Making Prototypes & Samples
Human Curiosity.
Curiosity is the drive behind my creativity when designing new things and has shown to be extremely valuable in the design process for modern product development. When I take a step back, I am interested in learning who the product if for and how they use it. This helps me empathize and better design to understand the needs of consumers. Consumers are essential to the design process, even though they may not provide exact instructions on what to create or how to design it. However, with some encouragement, they can help us understand how innovation can be successful. By listening to consumers and understanding existing market data, I can create innovations that people want and find valuable.
Understanding Consumers & Market
Tie it all together – Design, Branding & Business
Throughout my career in various companies, I have gained extensive knowledge at the intersection of business, brand and product development. I am able to create desirable products that are accompanied by compelling stories. Below is some of my work as a creative director for marketing assets and tradeshows.
Companies I have worked for
- Smith Optics – helmets and eyewear
- Adventure Wagon – Camper van products
- OttoLock – bicycle locks
- Chris King Precision Components
- Nike – Swim products
- Wahoo – cycling products
- Dovetail – Womens workwear
- Leatherman – Tools and outdoor
- Yakima – Bike racks and outdoor products
- Ziba – Design consultancy
- GE – Kitchen Appliances
If you’ve made it this far, superb! , we’re on the same wavelength and thank you for reading.
JDB Design 