Design Technologists

Miscellaneous January 16, 2008

So, in the process of finding an internship for this semester, I learned that I'm a "design technologist." What does that mean, exactly? According to Frog Design:

The Design Technologist helps analyze, prototype, design, and develop an application's user-interface. He/she turns stunning ideas into working prototypes and production-quality applications — not only providing a high-fidelity implementation, but also creatively enhancing the vision of the visual and interaction designers. The DTs works closely with design analysts and business strategists to generate ideas based on their knowledge of technology platforms and their comprehensive understanding of industry-specific technology trends. He/she bridges the gap between design and technology by providing technical guidance to the creative team, facilitating the transition from design to development, and leveraging his/her design sensibilities during user interface development.

For the last year or so I've considered myself an Interaction Designer but apparently in the industry that can be limited to strictly design. I, on the other hand, am proficient in development and programming, which makes me more multi-faceted than a regular interface designer, I guess.

The fact that this description says that the DT "bridges the gap between design and development" is precisely the description of my interests. A little of this, a little of that, my career interests are to dabble in both design and programming with an overall concentration in user experience.

It's very interesting to learn of all the little niches in the industry that are all somewhat related: interaction designers, interface designers, visual designers, design analysts, design technologists, product and program managers, user experience designers, software developers, etc. Just goes to show you that there's someone for every job, no matter how specific it is.

Thing is, yes I enjoy making things and I've been making sites for a few years now. But these days I get burnt out easily. I never run out of interesting ideas and improvements but I find myself not always wanting to jump right in and start coding. I'd need someone else to do it for me :^P

I guess that's the mindset of the visionary.

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