Instructor Profile: Omid Ettehadi (continued)

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Who could benefit from taking the introductory course?

This course is created for any individual who is intrigued by the product design process and is curious about what makes a good product. If you have ever been frustrated by an app and have wondered if it’s just you or does everyone else feels the same way, this is the course for you. No matter your level of prior experience, whether you are aspiring to begin a career in UI/UX or are curious about what UI and UX are, this course serves as an excellent starting point.

Who could benefit from taking the intermediate course?

This course is tailored for individuals with a basic understanding of the product design process who are eager to enhance their skills and knowledge. While you do not necessarily need prior experience as a product designer, familiarity with the fundamentals is beneficial. Recognizing that students enter with varying levels of background knowledge, the course is structured to accommodate diverse learning needs. Whether you are starting out or looking to refine your existing skills, you will find valuable insights and guidance to suit your individual learning journey.

What would you say defines a good UI/UX designer?

Answering the question of what makes a great UI/UX professional is complex. The field is incredibly diverse, and mastering one aspect doesn't guarantee expertise in all responsibilities. For instance, someone might excel at creating stunning UI elements but lack experience in running user research sessions, and vice versa.

However, certain qualities are essential for success in UI/UX, largely centred around mindset. It begins with a deep commitment to understanding and championing the user's perspective, sometimes putting aside personal biases. This doesn't mean neglecting business needs but rather integrating user insights into decision-making processes.

Another crucial quality is effective communication and collaboration with various stakeholders, including business leaders, product managers, and developers. This ensures alignment and synergy across teams, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

What are some upcoming projects you are working on or looking forward to developing

I am currently immersed in a significant reimagining project, a rare chance to question every aspect of a product accumulated over many years. This opportunity allowed our team to bypass some technical and business constraints and delve into the exploratory side of design. We are focusing solely on addressing user problems and desires, crafting an experience from the ground up. While there is still much to be done before the product is ready for launch, even at this stage, it is an exhilarating journey. I eagerly anticipate the day when users can finally experience the product firsthand.