UX Leadership By Design podcast

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The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström®

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#669: It's already time to start planning for the holiday shopping season with Carey Cockrum, Cella by Randstad Digital 28:52

vor 10 Tagen28:52

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Retailers are facing a rapidly evolving landscape where consumer expectations, AI advancements, and social media platforms like TikTok are redefining engagement. It feels like the holiday shopping season just ended, but when do retailers start planning for the next one, and some retailers already behind the curve for this season? Joining us today is Carey Cockrum, Director of Consulting at Cella by Randstad Digital, where she helps major brands and marketing teams optimize their strategies with data-driven insights, AI-powered content creation, and cutting-edge retail marketing trends. With the holidays just around the corner, she’s here to share what’s next for retail marketing, campaign optimization, and how brands can stay ahead in a hyper-competitive space. ABOUT CAREY COCKRUM Carey has been a part of the Creative Agency space for nearly 30 years. She has served as Designer, Creative Director, Creative Operations Lead and Agency Lead in both internal and external agencies (big and small). Carey has worked directly with C-suite stakeholders to understand organizational strategies that inform effective creative solutions. She is a bit of a data nerd and loves demonstrating results. Brands she’s supported include Fruit of the Loom, Wendy’s and Humana. In her free time, she enjoys going back to her creative roots through painting and drawing. She also spends her time improving upon the house she lives in today in Southern, MI - inside and out. RESOURCES Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brands Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

UX Leadership By Design

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A podcast by and for UX Design & Product Management Leaders. Your host Mark Baldino, Co-Founder of UX design consultancy Fuzzy Math, brings twenty+ years of experience in UX design and strategy into a series of conversations with people who lead UX design teams.

30 Episoden

#Arts #Graphic Design #Mark Baldino #Uxd #Uxdesign #Uxleadership #Userexperience #B2B #Enterprise #Designteams

UX Leadership By Design

updated vor 20 Tagen

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30 Episoden

#Arts #Graphic Design #Mark Baldino #Uxd #Uxdesign #Uxleadership #Userexperience #B2B #Enterprise #Designteams

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Beyond Faster Horses: Uncovering Customer Needs at Scale 37:11

vor 20 Tagen37:11

37:11

Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, Mark Baldino talks with Mauricio Steffen , Senior Director of Product Management at Ericsson, about the crucial role customer research and empathy play in successful product management. Mauricio shares his unique career path, transitioning from corrections officer to frontline support, then into product management, highlighting how deep, empathetic listening skills have been essential across all roles. The conversation explores how to scale customer feedback processes, synthesize insights effectively, and navigate stakeholder management. Mark and Mauricio challenge the common misinterpretation of Henry Ford’s quote about customer research, emphasizing the importance of genuinely understanding underlying customer needs. Practical advice is offered for breaking through organizational blinders, advocating for meaningful change, and maintaining balance when strategic initiatives seem misaligned with immediate customer requests. Key Takeaways Empathy and Active Listening: Genuine empathy and active listening are key skills that transcend industry and job function, essential for product management success. Scaling Customer Feedback: Utilize scalable methods like AI (LLMs) to analyze and summarize customer feedback at scale, uncovering patterns and root causes effectively. Root Cause Analysis: Go beyond surface-level customer requests by digging deeper to uncover true underlying problems and needs, rather than just stated wants. Stakeholder Engagement: Engage stakeholders early, make them feel heard, and clearly communicate decisions to achieve alignment and minimize resistance. Embracing Customer Feedback: Treat customer feedback as a valuable gift; show appreciation and continuously demonstrate that input shapes your product decisions. Admitting Mistakes: Develop the courage to pivot or stop projects when customer and market feedback indicates potential failure; maintaining an honest, reflective process is key to sustainable success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mauricio Steffen 02:09 Career Journey: From Corrections Officer to Product Management 06:57 The Role and Philosophy of Product Management 09:59 Influencing Stakeholders: Education, Listening, and Empathy 12:42 Scaling Customer Feedback and Leveraging AI 15:34 Why “Faster Horse” Is a Cop-Out: Understanding Customer Needs 22:49 Breaking Organizational Blinders with Customer Insights 26:07 The Challenge of Admitting Mistakes and Changing Course 29:37 Root Cause Analysis: From Wants to True Customer Needs 35:33 Empathy as the Key Skill for All Stakeholder Management Resources & Links Connect with Mauricio Steffen on LinkedIn Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Sell Before You Build for Faster Product-Market Fit 40:02

vor 7 weeks40:02

40:02

Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, Mark Baldino sits down with David Hirschfeld , founder and CEO of Tekyz, about the Launch First methodology—a metrics-driven approach to de-risking product development and achieving product-market fit before building software. David shares insights from working with over 90 startups, highlighting the common pitfalls that lead to failure, particularly the mistake of waiting too long to validate revenue. He breaks down how to identify the right niche, perform root cause analysis, and use high-fidelity prototypes to pre-sell software before investing in an MVP. Whether you're a startup founder, a product leader, or iterating on a new SaaS offering, this episode offers actionable strategies to validate demand, avoid wasted development, and accelerate success. Key Takeaways The Biggest Mistake Startups Make - Most startups fail due to lack of product-market fit, not running out of money. Waiting too long to validate revenue leads to wasted resources and increased risk. Flipping the MVP Approach - Instead of using an MVP to test product-market fit, use it to validate product-solution fit—ensuring real customers will use it, not just buy it. Pre-Selling Before Building - High-fidelity prototypes that feel like real software can be used to sell the vision and secure early customers before writing a single line of code. The Power of Niche Analysis - Startups should identify a niche where pain points have both a high cost and a high perceived impact, ensuring customers are both willing and able to pay. The Scientist vs. The Believer - Founders often wear the "black robe" of belief in their vision, but success comes from adopting the "white coat" of data-driven decision-making. Speed Matters: Fail Fast, Fail Cheap - Instead of spending years and millions developing a product that may not sell, Launch First helps founders validate demand in 3-5 months. Lifetime Licenses Aren’t Crazy - For some SaaS models, offering lifetime licenses in pre-sales can be a smarter way to fund development than raising capital and losing equity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to David Hirschfeld's Journey 03:01 Why Most Startups Fail: The Real Reason 09:31 Understanding Product-Market Fit vs. Product-Solution Fit 14:46 Sell Before You Build: The Power of Pre-Sales 19:31 Finding the Right Niche with Data-Driven Decisions 24:31 From Founder to Scientist: The Mindset Shift 28:46 Building a Sales Funnel for Early Traction 34:11 When to Start Building Your MVP Resources & Links Connect with David Hirschfeld on LinkedIn Tekyz Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Philosophy Meets Product: Pragmatism, Internal Politics, and Product Ops 35:59

vor 10 weeks35:59

35:59

Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, Mark Baldino sits down with Mike Nowak , Principal Product Manager at Deloitte Digital, to explore the philosophy and pragmatism behind product management. Mike shares his unconventional journey from theology and philosophy to product leadership, emphasizing the importance of humility, adaptability, and cross-functional collaboration in the product space. The conversation dives into the interplay between UX, engineering, and product management, the challenge of defining “what to build and why”, and how organizations can create a culture where mistakes lead to learning, not failure. The discussion also covers why product decisions are often political, the evolving role of product ops, and how businesses can better align incentives to build truly user-centered products. Key Takeaways Product as the Interstitial Role - Product management isn’t just about writing requirements—it’s about bridging the gaps between UX, engineering, and business stakeholders, ensuring alignment on desirability, feasibility, and viability. Pragmatism in Product Development - The best teams focus on what works in the real world, not just what sounds good in theory. Product teams must fail fast, test ideas quickly, and iterate based on real user feedback. Why Product Decisions Are Political - Prioritization isn’t just about logic—it’s about navigating internal politics, aligning incentives, and helping stakeholders understand why some initiatives move forward while others don’t. The Rise of Product Operations - Many organizations struggle with operationalizing best practices. Product Ops can bring structure to decision-making, create data-driven prioritization frameworks, and help teams scale effective processes. Psychological Safety Drives Innovation - The most effective teams aren’t afraid to say, “We don’t know yet.” Creating an environment where mistakes are learning opportunities is critical for long-term product success. Resources & Links Connect with Mike Nowak on LinkedIn Book: Getting Naked by Patrick Book: Product Operations: How successful companies build better products at scale Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Building a Culture of Innovation: A Guide for Leaders 38:22

vor 14 weeks38:22

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Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, Mark Baldino talks with Dave Seligsohn , founder of A2O Consulting, about creating a culture of innovation and driving business growth. Drawing from his rich background in education and leadership, Dave shares insights into the challenges small businesses face, such as breaking revenue ceilings, optimizing operations, and achieving growth. He highlights the importance of fostering innovation through intentional processes, forming dedicated teams, and leveraging data-driven decision-making. The conversation offers practical strategies for establishing an innovation pipeline, validating ideas, and navigating organizational challenges, making it an invaluable guide for leaders and entrepreneurs. Key Takeaways The Cycle of Innovation – Effective innovation is intentional and embedded into company culture, driven by an innovation team tasked with surfacing, testing, and implementing ideas. Breaking Revenue Ceilings – Small businesses often face growth plateaus due to overreliance on founders; collaboration, delegation, and external advisors can help overcome these challenges. Prevention Over Cure – Leaders should prioritize continuous innovation to avoid desperation-driven solutions during crises. Structured Idea Validation – A systematic approach to market validation, involving customer feedback and financial analysis, reduces risk and ensures alignment with business goals. Leadership’s Role in Innovation – Leadership should sponsor and support innovation initiatives, but remain hands-off during idea generation to encourage creativity. The Power of Data in Decision-Making – Businesses must identify and focus on the most relevant data points to track progress and ensure operational efficiency. Overcoming Fear of Change – Allocating budget and fostering openness to new ideas are critical to embracing innovation as a business growth driver. Resources & Links Connect with Dave Seligsohn on LinkedIn Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Building Better Products Faster with Generative AI 33:55

vor 20 weeks33:55

33:55

Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, Mark Baldino sits down with Joe Sticca, a seasoned expert blending technology, digital experiences, and product innovation, to explore the transformative impact of generative AI on product management and design. Joe shares his journey from software development to digital experience leadership, emphasizing the importance of adopting an "editor mindset" to harness AI for efficiency, creativity, and strategic decision-making. The conversation delves into how AI accelerates feedback loops, enhances data analysis, and mitigates risks, empowering teams to deliver richer MVPs and foster better collaboration. Joe also touches on the evolving role of Web3, tokenization, and platforms like Roblox and Decentraland in shaping the future of customer engagement. KEY TAKEAWAYS The "Editor Mindset" for Success - Generative AI empowers professionals to focus less on manual tasks and more on refining and validating creative ideas, improving product value and user outcomes. Efficiency Meets Creativity - AI tools enable teams to test, iterate, and mitigate risks faster, allowing for richer MVPs and more impactful user experiences. Depersonalizing Decision-Making - Using AI to analyze and act on data removes bias, fosters objectivity, and encourages Socratic discussions for better outcomes. Expanding the Idea Set - With time saved through AI, teams can shift their focus to exploring more innovative and valuable ideas that enhance user and business value. Shortening Feedback Loops - Real-time data insights powered by AI allow product teams to make faster, more informed decisions without waiting for traditional analytics cycles. Adapting Skills for the AI Era - Professionals must develop a nuanced understanding of business value, context, and creative problem-solving to thrive alongside AI tools. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:09 The Impact of Generative AI on Development 06:02 Navigating Trust in AI Tools 08:52 The Role of AI in Product Management 11:46 The Editor Mindset in Product Development 14:47 Future Trends in Product Management and Design 17:51 Closing Thoughts and Future Opportunities LINKS: Connect with Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joesticca/ Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Unlocking Growth Through Team Alignment in Product Management 45:57

vor 24 weeks45:57

45:57

Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, Mark Baldino and Bruce McCarthy discuss the challenges and solutions around stakeholder alignment in product management. Bruce highlights the importance of bridging communication gaps across departments to achieve unified goals and emphasizes the role of empathy, strategic prioritization, and effective stakeholder management in driving organizational success. He also touches on methods for identifying influential stakeholders, leveraging trust, and fostering cross-functional collaboration for product teams, especially in remote settings. Drawing from his book Aligned: Stakeholder Management for Product Leaders, Bruce provides actionable strategies for navigating the complexities of building consensus and aligning teams with the organization's overall mission. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding and Aligning with Key Stakeholders: Successful product leaders prioritize stakeholder alignment, actively engaging across teams to achieve cohesive objectives that serve the organization's mission. The Role of Empathy in Collaboration: Effective alignment requires empathy, listening to stakeholders’ perspectives, and validating their challenges to build a foundation of trust and cooperation. Focusing on Value Creation: Product teams must balance user needs with market demands by identifying and prioritizing solutions that drive real value for both customers and business. Proactive Communication Strategies: Building trust and clarity within cross-functional teams is essential, especially in remote environments; proactively reaching out to influential figures strengthens alignment. Defining and Mapping Organizational Influence: Identifying informal power players within an organization can be more effective than relying on an org chart, allowing product leaders to foster essential alliances. Leveraging Remote Tools for Connection: In a virtual setup, choosing high-bandwidth communication (like video) and maintaining consistent, high-touch engagement with stakeholders enhances team synergy. Using Vulnerability to Drive Authentic Relationships: Showing vulnerability and a willingness to ask for help or clarification can build stronger relationships, ultimately promoting an aligned and transparent culture. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Bruce McCarthy and His Journey 01:51 Identifying the Tipping Point for Product Culture 03:50 Understanding Alignment and Misalignment in Organizations 07:57 Challenges in Product and Design Teams 12:08 Building Cross-Functional Relationships 15:59 Navigating Organizational Dynamics 20:05 Strategies for Remote Collaboration 24:10 The Role of Vulnerability in Leadership 28:00 Aligning Product and UX Teams 31:59 Resources for Further Learning LINKS: Connect with Bruce on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucemccarthy/ Aligned: Stakeholder Management for Product Leaders: https://www.alignedthebook.com/ Product Culture Website: https://www.productculture.org Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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The Future of Product Management is Data and AI 37:31

vor 26 weeks37:31

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Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, Rina Alexin , CEO of Productside, joins Mark Baldino , Co-Founder of Fuzzy Math, to discuss the state of product management today, including challenges like misaligned strategy, poor stakeholder management, and data utilization. She emphasizes the need for clearer communication of strategy across all levels of an organization, enabling product teams to focus on valuable discovery and execution. Rina also shares insights on navigating the complexities of data, enhancing team skills, and leveraging AI to empower more effective product management. Key Takeaways Misaligned Strategy: Many product teams struggle due to poorly defined business strategies or prioritization, which ultimately affects their ability to deliver impactful results. Stakeholder Management: A key challenge is the lack of proper governance in decision-making, which leads to difficulties in aligning priorities across the organization. The Value of Communication: Clear and repetitive communication from leadership to product teams about business goals is crucial to ensure alignment and strategic focus. Overwhelmed Product Managers: Product managers often feel overwhelmed with tasks, which highlights the importance of balancing stakeholder communication with delivering product outcomes. The Role of AI: Product managers should learn to effectively use AI to increase efficiency. Avoiding AI will be detrimental to productivity in the future. Data Utilization: Lack of data or mistrust in data quality can lead to poor decision-making. Gathering reliable metrics is essential for driving impactful business decisions. Enabling Product Managers: Providing product managers with the tools, training, and clear expectations helps them excel in their roles and contribute to the organization's success. Chapters 02:58 Current State of Product Management 06:08 Leadership's Role in Product Management 09:03 Challenges in Product Management 11:56 Stakeholder Management and Governance 15:08 Overwhelm in Product Teams 17:58 The Impact of AI on Product Management 21:03 The Importance of Data in Product Management Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Communication Hacks to Align Your Product Team for Success 33:52

vor 30 weeks33:52

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Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership By Design , host Mark Baldino speaks with Gerard Dolan about the challenges teams face in communication, problem identification, and leadership in dynamic work environments. Gerard discusses practical strategies for addressing issues like silos of information, aligning teams, and the importance of building relationships and fostering empathy within an organization. He emphasizes the value of identifying the right problems, facilitating open communication, and maintaining clarity in organizational roles. Gerard also touches on how team structures and leadership decisions can create bottlenecks and how to overcome them through transparency and collaboration. Key Takeaways Breaking Silos to Enhance Communication: Teams often struggle with sharing information across departments. Breaking down "silos of excellence" fosters collaboration and ensures everyone is on the same page. Empathy and Understanding Pain Points: Spending time with colleagues and understanding their pain points can build bridges within organizations and improve team cohesion. Identifying and Addressing Real Problems: Taking the time to properly identify problems before jumping into solutions is critical for long-term success. Playing back the problem helps ensure everyone understands and is aligned. Prioritizing Open Feedback Loops: Regularly following up with team members on research findings or new information builds trust and ensures continuous improvement. Leadership Requires Clear Communication: Leaders must be proactive in communicating vision and strategy, ensuring that their teams are aligned and informed, particularly in large or complex organizations. Resources & Links Connect with Gerard on LinkedIn Cynefin Framework Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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From Graffiti to CEO: A Creative's Guide to Leading Creatives 52:49

vor 33 weeks52:49

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Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership By Design , host Mark Baldino speaks with Pablo Stanley . Pablo, a designer and artist, shares his journey from being a graffiti artist in his teenage years to becoming a creative director and founder of multiple companies. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of leading a team of creatives, including the balance between guiding them and allowing them to explore new ideas. Pablo also emphasizes the importance of bringing one's full self and passion to work, promoting work-life integration rather than separation. He highlights the benefits of integrating personal interests and hobbies into the creative process, leading to more motivated and efficient employees. Pablo thoughtfully emphasizes the importance of collaboration, autonomy, and allowing others to make decisions. Pablo also shares his perspective on AI in design, highlighting its potential to unblock creativity and free up time for more impactful work -- while acknowledging the concerns around AI and the need for ethical and legal regulations. Key Takeaways The transition from being an artist to a leader in the creative field can be gradual and natural, with experiences like being in a band or playing video games helping to develop skills in teamwork and collaboration. Leading a team of creatives requires finding a balance between guiding them and allowing them to explore new ideas, while also fostering trust and respect. Promoting work-life integration and allowing employees to bring their personal interests and passions into their work can lead to more motivated and efficient teams. Creatives often crave control and perfection, but it's important to embrace the culture of making mistakes and learning from them. Work should feel less like work and more like fun, where employees can bring their full selves and passion to what they do. Leadership involves bringing people together, fostering collaboration, and avoiding silos and isolation. As a leader, it's important to let go of control and allow others to contribute and make decisions. AI in design can unblock creativity and free up time for more impactful work, but human input is still necessary for selecting and refining ideas. There are concerns and ethical considerations around AI, particularly in terms of artists' work being used to train models without consent. Learn how Pablo's tool, Lumi, offers AI-generated assets for creative projects. Resources & Links Connect with Pabloe on LinkedIn Pablo's AI design tool companies: https://musho.ai/ and https://www.lummi.ai/ Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Mastering Intentional Prioritization for Complex Organizations 35:18

vor 37 weeks35:18

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Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, host Mark Baldino speaks with Harry Max, author of the book "Managing Priorities: How to Create Better Plans and Make Smarter Decisions". We discussion the importance of intentional prioritization, particularly in complex organizational settings. Harry explains that while many people think they are good at prioritizing, most struggle when faced with dynamic and adaptive environments. He introduces his DEGAP process model (Decide, Engage, Gather, Arrange, Prioritize), which offers a structured approach to prioritization, ensuring that decisions are made based on the best possible options. The conversation also touches on the challenges of gaining team and organizational alignment and the significance of making prioritization a deliberate and strategic activity. Key Takeaways: Prioritization Needs Intentionality: Successful prioritization requires a structured approach, especially in complex organizational settings. DEGAP Process Model: The DEGAP model (Decide, Engage, Gather, Arrange, Prioritize) provides a comprehensive framework for effective prioritization. Importance of Strategic Alignment: Aligning teams and gaining executive support are crucial for the success of any prioritization effort. Recognizing the Need to Prioritize: The first step is deciding whether prioritization is necessary in a given situation, considering the potential benefits and risks. Prioritization as a Skill: While people may be good at prioritization in simple environments, complex settings require more refined methods and tools. Outputs vs. Results: Focus on achieving better results by selecting the best possible options rather than just prioritizing tasks. Avoiding Pitfalls: Without intentional prioritization, organizations risk making decisions that do not align with their strategic goals, leading to inefficiencies. Scalability of Prioritization: Effective prioritization processes can scale from individual teams to entire organizations. Designing for Flexibility: The prioritization process should be adaptable to different contexts, stakeholders, and organizational needs. Building Consensus: Engaging all relevant stakeholders in the prioritization process ensures that the outcomes are understood and supported across the organization. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 05:19 The Importance of Prioritization 11:39 Prioritizing Prioritization 19:43 The DEGAP Process Model 22:19 Aligning Teams and Achieving Organizational Success 29:23 Gaining Executive Alignment and Getting Traction Links: 20% Discount Code to Buy the book "Get the book - Managing Priorities: How to Create Better Plans and Make Smarter Decisions". Use Code "UXLBD" during checkout at: https://rosenfeldmedia.com/books/managing-priorities Hary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrymax harrymax.com Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Amex's Strategy for Building Better Design Leaders 35:50

vor 41 weeks35:50

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Send us a text In this episode of UX Leadership by Design, Mark Baldino, co-founder of Fuzzy Math, speaks with Evan English, Vice President of Design and User Research at American Express. Evan shares her journey from product management to UX leadership at Amex, where she has spent 15 years. She highlights the company's significant investment in leadership training and development, which has allowed her to build a strong design leadership team from within the organization. They discuss the importance of aligning design work with business value, the challenges and rewards of building a mature design system, and the strategic role of information architecture in delivering business results. Key Takeaways: Leadership behaviors, such as communication, collaboration, and empathy, are crucial for UX leaders. Designers possess unique qualities that make them great leaders, including empathy, active listening, storytelling, and systems thinking (dot connectors). Shared goals with product partners and design maturity goals are important for driving business value. Information architecture and design systems play a critical role in supporting the evolving business needs. Measuring metrics and setting goals are essential for tracking the impact of design efforts and improving customer satisfaction. Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Driving Change: How to Tackle Common Pitfalls in Digital Transformation 33:26

vor 1 year33:26

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Send us a text In Episode 7 of Season 2 of UX Leadership by Design, host Mark Baldino chats with Mike LaVista, CEO and Founder of Caxy, a digital transformation constancy. They explore the importance of clear goals, change management, and mitigating risks for successful transformations. They also highlight the need to involve customers in the process and consider future-proofing these systems. The conversation emphasizes the importance of building a strong business case, prioritizing pain points, and introducing new features to drive adoption. They explore the importance of legacy app modernization, and the practical steps organizations can take to mitigate risks associated with these transformations. Key Takeaways: Definition and Impact of Digital Transformation: Digital transformation involves a comprehensive integration of digital technology into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how organizations operate and deliver value to customers. Mike emphasizes that it's not just about technology, but also about driving change that enhances business performance and sustainability. Challenges of Legacy Systems: Legacy systems often pose significant challenges due to their outdated technologies and architectures. Both speakers discuss the complexities involved in modernizing these systems, including the risks of disrupting operational continuity and the difficulty in managing change among stakeholders. Risk Mitigation Strategies: The discussion highlights the importance of a proactive approach to risk management. Mike suggests that addressing potential pains before they turn critical and involving key stakeholders early in the process are crucial steps in mitigating risks. Change Management as a Key Success Factor: Effective change management is critical for the success of digital transformation initiatives. Mike points out that organizations must focus on managing both the technical aspects of the change and the people side, ensuring that all employees are on board and aligned with the new direction. Future-Proofing Through Incremental Improvement: Both speakers agree that future-proofing business technology requires not only replacing old systems but also continuously improving and updating new systems. They discuss strategies for making incremental improvements that allow organizations to adapt to future needs without extensive rework. The Role of Leadership in Transformation: Leadership plays a pivotal role in driving digital transformation. Leaders must not only endorse technological change but also foster a culture that embraces continual learning and adaptation. Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellavista/ Mike's Article: The 7 Stages of Digital Transformation : https://www.caxy.com/blog/the-7-stages-of-digital-transformation-in-business Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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AI In Demand: Building Products People Love 35:22

vor 1 year35:22

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Send us a text In Episode 6 of Season 2 of UX Leadership by Design, host Mark Baldino chats with Bridget McMullan, Director of Technology Innovation at Elevance Health, about the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), user experience design, and product management. They dive into the critical role of human creativity and critical thinking in effectively integrating AI into product development and design processes. Bridget shares insights from her diverse background in product development and her teaching experiences, highlighting practical examples of AI applications. The conversation also touches on ethical considerations, potential biases, and the importance of human intervention in AI's development and implementation. Whether you're a designer, product manager, or simply an AI enthusiast this episode explores the transformative potential of AI in creating innovative, user-centered design solutions. Key Takeaways: AI and Human Creativity in UX Design: The integration of artificial intelligence in user experience design highlights a unique overlap where AI enhances human creativity, leading to the development of innovative solutions that blend the best of technology and human insight. Human-Centered Design in the Age of AI: Despite the transformative potential of AI, the core principles of human-centered design remain paramount. This approach ensures that design solutions prioritize user-friendliness, intuition, and ethical responsibility, keeping human needs and values at the forefront. Ethical AI Use and Bias Prevention: The ethical integration of AI in design practices emphasizes the importance of bias prevention and aligns technological advancements with human values, ensuring that AI serves the genuine needs of users. Evolving Role of AI in Product Development: Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping the future of product development, introducing new methodologies that streamline the design process and encourage innovation, thereby transforming how products are conceived and brought to market. Critical Thinking and Human Insight in AI Implementation: In the implementation of AI-driven solutions, critical thinking and human intervention play crucial roles, ensuring that technology is applied in a manner that is both practical and deeply attuned to user needs. Navigating the AI Landscape in Design and Technology: As AI continues to evolve, understanding its impact on design and technology becomes essential. This encompasses both the benefits and challenges of AI, highlighting how it can enhance user experiences while also presenting new considerations for designers. Connect with Bridget on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgetmcmullan/ Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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Navigating Product-Centric to Platform-Centric UX Design 38:20

vor 1 year38:20

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Send us a text In Season 2, Episode 5 of UX Leadership by Design, Mark Baldino is joined by Pooja Vijay Kumar from Autodesk to discuss the transformative shift from product-centric to platform-centric design. Pooja shares her journey and the strategic importance of breaking down complex systems into atomic elements for better communication and understanding. The episode highlights Autodesk's approach to supporting a myriad of products and features while maintaining a cohesive infrastructure. The conversation offers practical advice for designers, product managers, and technologists navigating the evolving landscape of design. Tune in to learn about the future of design and how to thrive in a platform-centric environment. Key Takeaways: Shift to Platform-Centric Design Thinking: The episode underscores the essential transition from product-centric to platform-centric design, emphasizing the need for designers to adopt a mindset focused on creating systems that support multiple products and services. This shift involves breaking down complex systems into atomic elements for clarity and effective communication. The Role of Strategic Questioning and Business Acumen: Designers are encouraged to ask pertinent questions to grasp the business value of their projects fully. Understanding and articulating the business context of design work is highlighted as a crucial skill for influencing decision-making and asserting the strategic importance of design in achieving business objectives. Navigating Organizational Dynamics for Impact: The discussion on entering and exiting "the right rooms" metaphorically speaks to the importance of designers positioning themselves in situations where they can significantly impact and participate in crucial decision-making processes. It's about finding the balance between contributing value and seeking opportunities for meaningful involvement in strategic discussions. Innovations in Platform Content Design: Pooja Vijay Kumar shares insights into the unique challenges and approaches in platform content design, including crafting language and metaphors that anchor user experiences. This involves a sophisticated understanding of data models, concepts, and the transition from legacy systems to more granular, data-centric approaches. Future Directions in Design: The conversation points towards the future of design, stressing the importance for designers to equip themselves with platform-centric thinking, strategic questioning, and an understanding of business value to navigate the evolving landscape of technology and design effectively. Connect with Pooja on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/poojavijaykumar/ Pooja on ADPList: https://adplist.org/mentors/pooja-vijay-kumar Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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The Strategic Role of Product Operations in Business Growth 31:10

vor 1 year31:10

31:10

Send us a text In Episode 4, Season 2 of "UX Leadership By Design," Denise Tilles discusses the critical role of product operations in scaling businesses and enhancing product development. She underscores the necessity of integrating product and design teams with a strong emphasis on leveraging data and research operations to drive impactful business results. Denise targets a broad audience for the book, including product managers, VPs, CPOs, and CEOs, to emphasize the universal benefit of adopting product operations frameworks. Key insights include the essential nature of operationalizing product teams, the significance of data in refining product strategy, and the importance of cross-functional collaboration for effective operationalization. Key Takeaways: Data-Driven Insights: The transformative impact of integrating data analysis into product management to uncover revenue opportunities and drive strategic decisions. Operationalizing Product Management: Identifying signs for the need to formalize product operations within growing organizations to enhance alignment and efficiency. Broad Audience Engagement: The importance of product operations for a range of professionals from product managers to CEOs, highlighting its cross-functional relevance. Value of Collaboration: Emphasizing the synergy between product, design, and technology operations to foster a cohesive and effective operational framework. Learning and Growth: Encouraging a culture of continuous learning and adaptation within product teams to remain agile and responsive to market demands. Strategic Alignment: The crucial role of product operations in aligning product development efforts with overarching business goals and customer needs. Resource Optimization: How product operations can help in prioritizing and efficiently utilizing resources, especially in times of economic constraints. Cross-functional Communication: Facilitating better communication and collaboration across departments to ensure a unified approach to product development and business strategy. Empowerment through Education: The potential for operational roles to educate and empower teams in research and data literacy, enhancing their ability to contribute to product success. Focus on Value Creation: Reiterating the core objective of product management and operations as the creation and delivery of value to customers and the business alike. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:13 Discovering Product Operations 04:26 Defining Product Management 05:29 Target Audience for the Book 08:14 When to Operationalize Product Teams 10:36 The Role of Data in Product Operations 18:09 Overlap and Collaboration with Other Ops Teams 22:03 Aligning Design and Product for Operationalization 23:45 The Importance of Research Ops 26:00 Collaboration between Design and Product 28:23 Talue of Product Operations Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy…

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