Interview with Ivan Kordonets

Ivan Kordonets ("IK") interviewed on Sunday, 7 July.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

IK : I have over two decades of experience as a designer, specializing in a diverse range of fields including product design, graphic design, and frontend development. My journey began with a background in law, but my passion for design led me to transition full-time into creating innovative solutions. I've had the privilege of working with leading companies across various industries, leveraging my skills in AI integration and big data analysis to push the boundaries of user-centric design.

How did you become a designer?

IK : My journey into design began unexpectedly during my legal education. While pursuing law, I discovered a profound interest in design as a creative outlet. This passion grew as I started experimenting with various design projects, from graphic design to product design and eventually frontend development. The allure of solving complex problems through creative means captivated me, prompting a full-time transition into the field. Inspired by the potential to impact lives positively through design, I immersed myself in learning and honing my skills, driven by an innate desire to innovate and create meaningful experiences.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

IK : In my design process, three key priorities guide my work: user-centricity, innovation, and seamless integration of technology. I prioritize understanding user needs deeply, ensuring every design solution enhances their experience. Innovation drives me to explore new ideas and push boundaries, aiming to create solutions that are both functional and visionary. I leverage the latest digital tools and technologies extensively, combining computer-aided design with physical mock-ups when needed to refine concepts. My approach blends creativity with technical proficiency, ensuring each project evolves through meticulous planning and iterative refinement to achieve optimal outcomes.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

IK : When I design, I experience a wide range of emotions, from excitement and curiosity to satisfaction and fulfillment. Solving user problems and creating intuitive, beautiful designs brings me immense joy. I love how design allows me to express creativity and innovation, and the emotional connection it creates with users is incredibly rewarding.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

IK : My background as a designer has been shaped significantly by my technical versatility in frontend development and my deep understanding of AI and big data integration. These skills enable me to approach design challenges with a holistic perspective, incorporating cutting-edge technologies into user-centric solutions. Beyond technical prowess, my experience in photography has honed my eye for aesthetics and composition, while my dedication to volunteer work in design and development continually fuels my creativity and problem-solving abilities. Influenced by a passion for innovation and driven by a desire to create impactful solutions, my design journey has been marked by a commitment to pushing boundaries and discovering new possibilities in every project I undertake.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

IK : My growth path as a designer is driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation and impact. I am dedicated to integrating AI and big data into design solutions, aiming to create intuitive user experiences that exceed expectations. My dream project, yet unrealized due to time constraints, involves developing a health monitoring product that operates 24/7, leveraging AI to analyze data and provide alerts for users and healthcare providers as needed. I see a significant opportunity now to innovate in healthcare, enhancing management and patient outcomes through advanced technology and thoughtful design.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

IK : My advice to young designers embarking on their careers is to embrace curiosity and persistence. Constantly seek new solutions and analyze existing ones to refine your skills. Be prepared to overcome challenges by investing the extra effort required for excellence. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who challenge and support you. The best advice I received was to never fear critique but to use it to improve. Expand your expertise by staying curious, exploring new technologies, and collaborating on diverse projects. Success in design comes from a combination of passion, dedication, and a willingness to learn from every experience.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

IK : As a successful designer, I suggest fellow designers, artists, and architects prioritize empathy and user-centricity in their work. Continuously strive to innovate while mastering the fundamentals. Avoid the trap of complacency by challenging yourself with diverse projects and seeking constructive feedback. Embrace collaboration and leverage technology to stay ahead. Remember, great design is about solving problems effectively while creating memorable experiences. Stay adaptable, learn from failures, and always maintain a passion for pushing boundaries.

What is your day to day look like?

IK : My day begins with physical exercise, typically an hour of cycling, running, or walking. This routine helps me clear my mind and brainstorm solutions to current challenges while generating new ideas. Professionally, I dive into design tasks, starting with reviewing project updates and planning priorities. I enjoy staying updated on design trends and industry news, which fuels my creativity. Throughout the day, I find joy in solving intricate design problems and collaborating with colleagues. Reflecting on achievements and setting new goals keeps me motivated until I wind down with another session of exercise, which helps me unwind and prepare mentally for the next day.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

IK : As a designer, I prioritize staying current with design trends by regularly researching and analyzing existing solutions in the market. I draw inspiration from design resources and mood boards to enrich my creative process. Also as a frontend developer, I also keep abreast of the latest technologies and frameworks to integrate cutting-edge solutions into my designs. While trends can influence aesthetics, I aim to balance contemporary elements with my unique design style, ensuring my work reflects both current standards and enduring quality.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

IK : A well-designed product or project, to me, is one that seamlessly integrates into the user's life, allowing them to solve problems effortlessly. Good design is invisible; it's when functionality meets elegance, and users can achieve their goals without friction. I evaluate design based on user-centricity, usability, aesthetic harmony, and how effectively it addresses its intended purpose. Common mistakes include neglecting user feedback, overcomplicating interfaces, or sacrificing usability for flashy features. For me, a good design embodies simplicity, intuitiveness, and a deep understanding of user needs.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

IK : Deciding if a design is ready involves a mix of intuition, feedback, and meeting objectives. I aim for a point where user needs are met seamlessly, and the design feels cohesive. While a design can always evolve, a balance between iteration and practicality guides my decisions. Success is confirmed when users find value effortlessly, and the design achieves its intended impact effectively.

What is your biggest design work?

IK : One of my most significant design projects is InsightCat, where I ventured into Observability and Monitoring. It was a pivotal experience that challenged me to integrate complex data insights into a user-friendly interface. The project aimed to enhance operational visibility and decision-making for users, leveraging my expertise in frontend development and UX/UI design. Its success was a result of overcoming technical hurdles while prioritizing user needs, marking it as a project I'm proud to have led. This project was recognized with an A' Design Award, further validating its impact and innovation in the field. Currently, I'm excited about new projects in AI-driven healthcare solutions, aiming to innovate patient care through advanced technology and design.

Who is your favourite designer?

IK : If I were to pick a favorite designer, it would be Dieter Rams. His principles of good design, encapsulated in his "Ten Principles for Good Design," have profoundly influenced my approach. Rams' minimalist and functional designs for Braun and his timeless products continue to inspire me. If given the chance, I would love to discuss design philosophy with him. Rams' emphasis on simplicity, innovation, and sustainability has left an enduring mark on the design world, making him one of the most iconic and impactful designers of all time. If I were to name another favorite designer, Steve Jobs would certainly be among them. His visionary approach to innovation, famously encapsulated in his belief that "people don't know what they want until you show it to them," underscores the importance of being both a user and a visionary in design. Jobs' ability to blend technology with user-centric design has redefined industries and continues to inspire me to create products that are not only functional but also deeply intuitive and transformative.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

IK : I'm currently based in San Francisco, a city that inspires me with its rich architectural heritage and vibrant community. My lifestyle is active, filled with activities like hiking, swimming, running, and cycling, which energize my creativity and problem-solving abilities. Music plays a significant role in my creative process, influencing my design choices and helping me maintain focus. At present, I'm immersed in several exciting design projects, including an AI platform for Doctors, a Finance platform for Stock markets, a Cyber Security Platform, and a financing platform for middle businesses. These projects leverage AI and big data to enhance user experiences and solve complex challenges across various industries. I believe that culture deeply influences design projects, shaping perspectives and solutions tailored to specific contexts. Good design is crucial for societal advancement as it improves functionality, accessibility, and sustainability. Personally, design has led me to adopt small but impactful changes in my life, enhancing efficiency and quality in everyday tasks. These incremental improvements reflect my commitment to innovation and improvement in both professional and personal domains.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

IK : My work culture revolves around collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. I foster an environment where creativity flourishes, and ideas are valued regardless of their source. Whether working independently or with partners, I prioritize clear communication and mutual respect, making it easy to collaborate effectively. When selecting business partners, I seek integrity, reliability, and a shared passion for pushing boundaries in design and technology. I look for team members who are not only creative and technically skilled but also proactive problem-solvers with a strong work ethic. Effective communication, adaptability, and a collaborative spirit are essential traits I value in those I hire or work with. In discussing my work and corporate culture, the emphasis is on creativity, quality, and client satisfaction. Continuous learning and innovation are core values, ensuring we stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Challenges in my profession include balancing artistic vision with practical considerations, staying updated with technology trends, and managing complex project dynamics while meeting deadlines. My responsibilities include conceptualizing and executing designs that meet client objectives and enhance user experiences. I oversee projects from inception to completion, conducting research, integrating feedback, and ensuring high standards of quality throughout the design process. Essential characteristics for a successful designer, artist, or architect include creativity, attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively. Adaptability to change, a passion for learning, and a deep understanding of design principles are also crucial. These principles and qualities define my approach to design, shaping a culture of innovation, collaboration, and client-centric solutions.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

IK : As a designer, I believe in giving back to the community through various philanthropic efforts. I am deeply involved in Open Source projects, contributing my skills and expertise to initiatives that promote accessibility and innovation in design and technology. I actively participate in pro bono design work, supporting nonprofit organizations and initiatives that align with my values and mission. I am passionate about the role of artists, designers, and architects in humanitarian projects, as design has the power to solve real-world problems and improve lives. I advocate for good design that not only meets aesthetic standards but also enhances functionality and usability, making a positive impact on society. Supporting young designers is a priority for me, and I engage in design events and conferences to mentor and inspire the next generation. Providing opportunities for growth and development is essential in fostering a vibrant design community that thrives on collaboration and innovation.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

IK : Participating in the A’ Design Award has been a truly enriching experience for me. Winning awards not only boosts my confidence but also enhances my visibility within the design community and beyond. It provides invaluable feedback that helps me continuously improve my skills and refine my approach to design. Moreover, these competitions facilitate networking opportunities with fellow designers and industry leaders, fostering collaborations that push the boundaries of innovation in design.

Ivan Kordonets Profile