Wahi @ Work : Valerie

1. Give us the 30-second elevator pitch about what you do at Wahi.

I’m responsible for creating the design and functionality of the mobile app and website. My goal is to make the app and website appealing, user-friendly and aligned with Wahi’s business objectives.

2. How and why did you get into your industry?

I studied graphic design at university and completed a certificate in multimedia. Early in my career, working on mobile and web applications led me to develop skills in interface design and usability. Over the years, I’ve combined my passion for visual arts with an interest in psychology. I’m no longer just creating pretty interfaces but rather making sure they are intuitive, and easy to use. 

3. What do you love most about your job?

What I like most about my work is that it can be applied to any industry. I’ve been lucky enough to work on e-commerce, finance, medical projects and more. At Wahi, my challenge is to help Canadians with their homebuying process, which is very exciting!

Another aspect I love about my job is getting to see user testing on prototypes I have created. Seeing their reactions, understanding their expectations, knowing what they like and what they don’t always keeps me improving!

4. What does your day look like?

My day includes sketching and prototyping new product ideas, collaborating with cross-functional teams, presenting design concepts and gathering feedback, iterating on designs based on stakeholder input, and refining designs to ensure they are ready for production.

5. What podcast are you listening to now?

I often listen to The Happiness Lab, which is not directly linked to product design but rather psychology, which is connected. In each episode Dr. Laurie Santos interviews experts in the fields of psychology, neuroscience, and behavioural economics to understand what contributes to a happy and fulfilling life.

6. Do you have any advice for people who want to be a product designer?

Gain a strong understanding of user-centred design principles, stay up to date with industry trends and advancement. Continuously seek feedback, be open to constructive criticism, be curious, humble, open-minded, and have fun!