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Primary design concentration:
Conceptual Layout/User-Centric Design
Most preferred tool for designing:
Dreamweaver/Photoshop
1. How and why did you choose to
become a designer?
I always had an artistic eye, so
I felt that maybe harnessing that skill may be something
that would work out later in my life. So far, so good.
2. Challenges you encounter as a
designer and how do you deal with them?
Hitting a plateau. Your skills in
your job will only take you so far; and unfortunately,
most employers are not looking to help further your
design skills.
3. Your definition of an “elegant
solution,” that is, good design?
My definition will differ from most,
as I can separate myself from a sexy design very easily
if it’s not usable. I’d rather have less
pop and more searchability and ease of use.
4. From skills to values, what makes
a designer successful?
The ability to listen and capture.
Translation of requirements is key to success.
As for the skills behind that philosophy,
a designer should understand the fundamentals of drawing,
layout, typography, photography, and colour. Depending
on your field it may also be useful to know about
painting, fabrics, screenprinting, sculpting, film
... the list goes on.
5. How do you stay motivated and
grow personally and professionally as a designer?
Very difficult. I have a pretty
busy schedule after work, so reading a good design
book or moonlighting helps keep me sharp ... tired,
but sharp.
6. For those aspiring to become
a designer, whatever the discipline,what is your advice?
Find a different career path, LOL
... All seriousness, research and a good visual eye
for details is going to make you successful in the
creative space.
7. What is your quest in design?
My quest is to someday oversee a
large group and be a mentor to help guide designers
to a more successful career path in design. I really
do love it, but helping others is really where I feel
that my strengths lie.
In addition to being a User
Experience Application Developer at his current employer,
Chris Beltramini is passionate about riding and restoring
bikes.
He highly recommends the book Don't Make Me Think!
A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability.
Image courtesy of Chris Beltramini
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