Interview with Ziyu Ye for Save Exit Glacier

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All Sound Production Website | True Digital Innovation
August 18, 2024
Catherine Ziyue Tang | NY Product Design Awards
Interview with Catherine Tang from the United States
August 19, 2024

Ziyu Ye

Ziyu 'Robert' Ye is a Product Designer specializing in user-centered design and AI applications. At C3 AI, he designs enterprise AI applications such as inventory optimization and production scheduling. Over the past two years, he has led multiple projects, enhancing user experiences and improving efficiency through innovative solutions.

1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your background.

I am Ziyu 'Robert' Ye, a Product Designer specializing in user-centered design and AI applications. Born in China, I moved to the US for college six years ago and graduated from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts with a degree in Interactive Media Arts.

Currently, I work at C3 AI, where I focus on designing enterprise AI applications such as inventory optimization and production scheduling. Over the past two years, I have led multiple projects and taken ownership of the design for several applications, enhancing user experiences and improving efficiency through innovative design solutions.

2Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.

I am a Product Designer at C3 AI, a global enterprise AI company that delivers machine learning applications to clients around the world.

My daily responsibilities include conducting user interviews to gather requirements, creating low-fidelity wireframes for stakeholder alignment and rapid iteration, and developing high-fidelity workflows for engineers to implement. My role is crucial in ensuring that user needs are addressed through thoughtful and effective design solutions.

3What does “design” mean to you?
Design involves solving real-world problems in the most effective, elegant, and feasible manner. It's not merely about aesthetics or self-expression; it's about assisting others in reaching their goals and improving their experiences.
4What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
My preferred type of design is UX design because it lies at the crossroads of design and technology. It enables me to blend creativity with practical problem-solving to develop user-centered solutions that significantly impact people's lives.
5To you, what makes a “good” design?
A good design is always centered on the user, stemming from a profound understanding of their needs. It is intuitive, functional, and visually appealing, effectively addressing the problem it was created to solve.
6Describe your design style and its main characteristics.

My design style is clean, user-centered, and functional. I adhere to a "less is more" philosophy, steering clear of unnecessary complexity. I prioritize understanding user needs and feedback, ensuring my designs are intuitive and easy to use.

My designs address real problems by combining beauty with practicality. I strive for a visually pleasing experience while maintaining simplicity and functionality. Additionally, my designs are adaptable across various contexts and devices, providing a seamless user experience. Overall, my style integrates minimalism, practicality, and elegance to create meaningful user experiences.

7Tell us about your design process.

My design process starts with extensive research and understanding user needs through interviews and data analysis. I then brainstorm and sketch initial concepts, creating low-fidelity wireframes for rapid iteration and stakeholder feedback.

Once ideas are refined, I develop high-fidelity prototypes and conduct user testing to pinpoint areas for improvement. After launch, I gather feedback and evaluate the design's effectiveness, making necessary adjustments. This iterative, user-centric approach ensures the final product effectively meets user needs and addresses the intended problem.

8Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
My cultural background has undoubtedly shaped my understanding of the world and my approach to problem-solving. The values and perspectives from my heritage influence my design process, enabling me to create solutions that are both innovative and culturally sensitive.
9Congratulations! As the winner of the 2024 NY Product Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Receiving this award is a substantial validation of my work and creativity, bolstering my confidence to continue pursuing my passion projects. It also underscores the importance of our mission to tackle climate change through design.
10Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 NY Product Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
My award-winning project, "Save Exit Glacier," is a deeply personal initiative focused on raising awareness about climate change and advocating for sustainable living. I entered this project to highlight my work to a wider audience and to stress the urgent need for environmental protection.
11What was the biggest challenge with this project?
The primary challenge was to make the concept of CO2 consumption tangible for users. I addressed this by iteratively brainstorming, developing low-fidelity wireframes, and conducting user testing. This process allowed me to refine the design until it effectively conveyed the impact of everyday actions on carbon emissions.
12How has winning an award developed your practice/career?
Firstly, the dynamic and ever-changing market that keeps us always learning. We also got intrigued by user-centered design, which allows us to connect deeply with the users. Additionally, the opportunity to interact with the latest technology, which is always exciting and fun to us.
13What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?

The collaborative community: Designers are always eager to assist one another, creating a nurturing and cooperative environment.

The challenge of problem-solving: I enjoy addressing complex issues and devising creative solutions.

The chance to make a positive impact: Design holds the potential to enhance lives and address significant issues, which is immensely rewarding.

14What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?
My design is distinguished by its exceptional quality and creativity. I prioritize developing solutions that are functional, user-centered, innovative, and impactful.
15Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
I anticipate that AI will assume many repetitive tasks, enabling designers to concentrate more on strategic design thinking and creativity. The industry will likely witness increased integration of AI and advanced technologies, expanding the possibilities of design.
16If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring NY Product Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
Engage in projects that truly captivate your interest and address problems you are passionate about. Authenticity and passion frequently result in the most innovative and impactful designs.
17What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
I suggest taking online courses on platforms like Coursera and Udemy, joining design communities for networking and feedback, and reading books on design principles and methodologies. Additionally, practicing by working on real projects, including personal ones, is extremely valuable.
18Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
This is my first time applying for a design award, and the experience has been both challenging and immensely rewarding.
19Who has inspired you in your life and why?
My greatest inspiration has been my father. As a production line designer and engineer, his dedication and passion for his work inspired me to pursue a career in design. Observing him create and innovate instilled in me a desire to draw, design, and build a career around my creativity.
20What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
My success hinges on perseverance and a true passion for design. Always remain curious, continuously seek knowledge, and be open to feedback and collaboration. Trust the process and view every challenge as an opportunity for growth.

Winning Entry

Save Exit Glacier | 2024

Save Exit Glacier | London Design Awards

Ziyu Ye

Ziyu 'Robert' Ye is a Product Designer specializing in user-centered design and AI applications. At C3 AI, he designs enterprise AI applications such as inventory optimization and production scheduling. Over the past two years, he has led multiple projects, enhancing user experiences and improving efficiency through innovative solutions.


Read more about Ziyu 'Robert' Ye's interview on Save Exit Glacier in the 2024 London Design Awards.

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