Interview with Mingzhi Cai

Mingzhi Cai ("MC") interviewed on Saturday, 20 January.

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

MC : I've been immersed in the design world for over 8 years, with expertise in areas including industrial design, 3D art, visual design, AR/VR, product experience, and design systems. My design journey began with a childhood interest in crafts, leading me to major in industrial design in college. Driven by curiosity, I expanded into relevant fields like AR/VR and interaction design, eventually transitioning to my current focus on product experience design. I am passionate about this area because it addresses practical, real-world problems and has the potential to ease the lives of a broader audience in more impactful ways. With this conviction, I am dedicated to continually advancing in this field.

How did you become a designer?

MC : My journey into design was fueled by a combination of a deep appreciation for art and a passion for technology. In high school, I was a science student with a strong inclination towards art and the creative world, as I learned painting and calligraphy as a kid. I always had a deep curiosity about human beings and society, which led me to consider studying sociology, psychology, or anthropology. However, upon discovering design thinking and the user-centric approach, I realized that design offered an opportunity to explore a diverse range of interests all at once, with the potential to make a real difference. This realization captivated me, and I naturally chose design as my college major. The more time I spend in this industry, the more I am convinced that choosing design was the right decision.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

MC : My design process prioritizes empathy, innovation, and functionality. Empathy extends beyond the end users; I focus on delivering user-centric experiences while effectively collaborating with my team, always mindful of deadlines and constraints. Understanding your team’s needs is also crucial to ensure that the design is implementable and ultimately reaches the end users. My primary techniques are sketching and rapid prototyping, which aid in visualizing and refining ideas quickly. My style adapts to each project's needs but generally leans towards minimalism, ensuring information is presented clearly and without clutter, enhancing user comfort. Efficiency and timeliness are my working style, ensuring smooth project progression and adherence to timelines.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

MC : Designing typically evokes feelings of focus and peace for me, as I find it quite natural to conceptualize solutions and bring them to life. However, I sometimes encounter challenges during the visual design phase, which can lead to impatience. This is usually my cue to take a break, grab a cup of coffee, or go for a walk. Usually the completion of a design brings excitement. There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing my designs come to fruition and witnessing the end-users' positive reactions. It's truly one of the most rewarding aspects of being a designer.

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

MC : My background and passion in graphic design have revealed to me that I am a visual person, often relying on visualizing design concepts as a means of effective communication. This approach has not only enhanced my communication skills but has also been frequently acknowledged by my teammates, who find my work articulate and self-explanatory. Additionally, having experience in multiple design domains has reinforced my belief in the universality of a user-centric approach. This approach is what, in my view, distinguishes design from a piece of art. Keeping this principle at the forefront, I am consistently committed to advocating for users and ensuring that my design solutions resonate with the target audience.

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

MC : My journey began in industrial design and evolved through several pivots to product experience design. Looking ahead, I aim to push design boundaries, particularly by incorporating emerging technologies to create innovative and influential user experiences. At the same time, I plan to dedicate more effort to the design community. This involves mentoring and guiding aspiring designers, helping them advance in their careers and navigate the industry's challenges. My dream is to be a catalyst for both technological advancement and nurturing new talent in the design world.

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

MC : Understand that every designer's career path is unique. Some may find their niche early, while others might excel as generalists or in interpersonal skills. Avoid rushing to fit a specific mold; instead, take time to discover your passions and strengths. Embrace learning, and stay adaptable as the design world constantly evolves. If you're facing confusion or frustration, seek mentorship. Most mentors, having faced similar challenges earlier in their career, are likely willing to help. Treat each challenge as a growth opportunity and a gift for your future. And your unique journey contributes distinctively to the design world.

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

MC : My key lesson has been to understand what success truly means on a personal level, rather than getting too caught up in society's grand idea of success, which often revolves around fancy titles or shiny objects. It's essential to stay informed about new tech and trends, but it's equally important not to lose yourself in them. In my opinion, the best designs are those that stand the test of time and maintain relevance. Dream big, of course, but also focus on the small, achievable steps when it's time to get to work. Celebrate the little victories; take moments to rest and enjoy the journey, all while continuing to push forward.

What is your day to day look like?

MC : Typically, my day starts with waking up and enjoying breakfast, followed by a day filled with staying updated on the latest in design and delving into project details. After returning home, I spend time reading, watching videos, and learning about global happenings from various sources, not just in design. I also enjoy catching up with friends or indulging in some quiet 'me time'. Despite working in a creative field, my days follow a fairly routine and ordinary pattern. However, I'm detail-oriented enough to appreciate the small breakthrough moments that occur even on the most mundane days – these are what keep my creative spark alive.

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

MC : I stay informed about design trends for inspiration, but I don't strictly adhere to them. Trends change rapidly, yet certain timeless principles like engagement, inclusivity, accessibility, and integration remain constant. Trends are useful for understanding current preferences, but effective design focuses on the specific needs of the target audience rather than just following trends. Ultimately, understanding the direction of design and maintaining core principles is more important than keeping up with ever-changing trends.

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

MC : Good design, in my eyes, is the perfect marriage of form and function. It's not just about looking good; it's about serving a purpose. A successful design effectively solves the problem it was created to address. It should be user-friendly, aesthetically pleasing, and positively contribute to the user's experience, which can sometimes lead to commercial success.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

MC : In design, true perfection is unattainable as it is always conditional. A design is considered ready when it meets the current phase's objectives, including user satisfaction and technical feasibility, within the constraints of time, budget, and technology. Unlike architecture, product design is an iterative process, allowing for ongoing refinements. Therefore, the focus should be on achieving immediate goals, with an openness to incremental modifications as new needs emerge, rather than striving for unachievable perfection.

What is your biggest design work?

MC : One of my most significant design projects was leading a team in the 9th International User Experience Design Competition, held by UXPA China, where we developed a VR concert concept. Although it may not have been the largest project I've worked on in terms of scope, it marked a pivotal milestone in my journey into interaction design. This project explored various scenarios for virtual fan-idol interactions, introducing me to the possibilities of immersive technology. Our concept achieved great success, earning three accolades: the National First/Silver Award, Best VR, and Best Visual Presentation, at this prominent industry event. The recognition and achievements from this project not only boosted my confidence but also motivated me to continue exploring and pushing the boundaries of innovation in the world of design.

Who is your favourite designer?

MC : My favorite designer is I.M. Pei, a renowned Chinese-American architect with whom I share my hometown. During my teenage years, I was deeply influenced by Pei's ability to intertwine science and art and to merge Chinese and Western design philosophies. This influence was so profound that it nearly led me to a career in architecture. Pei's architectural style is a harmonious balance of geometric precision and scientific restraint, underpinned by an emotional depth achieved through his masterful use of space and natural light. His work, from the Suzhou Museum in our shared hometown to the buildings of my company's headquarters, consistently displays intriguing design parallels. These parallels not only remind me of our shared roots but also resonate with my own design beliefs, emphasizing a connection that transcends time and place.

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

MC : My lifestyle might seem quite ordinary, even though I work in the creative industry. On weekdays, my routine involves going to the office and focusing on my day job. After work, I unwind by reading, watching movies or browsing design platforms. It's fascinating to see what others are creating; it often sparks inspiration for my own projects. Regarding my cultural background, I am Chinese, living in the United States. Growing up, I was deeply immersed in traditional Chinese arts, like calligraphy and architecture. These art forms, part of China's rich 5,000-year heritage, continue to be a wellspring of inspiration for me. I often find ways to weave elements of this heritage into my design work. This constant connection to my roots not only brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of who I am and inspiring ongoing creation.

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

MC : My approach to work culture emphasizes collaboration with individuals who share a similar mindset and possess a high level of craftsmanship. I believe that surrounding myself with other creative talents fosters an environment ripe for innovation and vibrancy. This synergy is crucial in bringing groundbreaking ideas to life. Regarding my business philosophy, I hold the view that even the simplest of ideas can be the foundation of a successful business, provided they are executed effectively. The key lies in thorough consideration and planning before committing to a business idea. Once a decision is made, it's vital to stay faithful and focused. This combination of careful planning and steadfast dedication is what I believe drives the success of any business venture.

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

MC : As a designer, I am deeply committed to giving back to the community. My philanthropic contributions extend beyond my professional role, as I dedicate time to mentor and coach aspiring designers. This initiative is a way to pay forward the generosity and support I received from the design community during the early stages of my career. I believe that it is essential to nurture the next generation of creative talents. By offering guidance and sharing my experiences, I aim to empower these individuals on their professional journey. The long-term relationships I build with my mentees provide ongoing support and encouragement for them, and create endless fulfillment for myself. Witnessing their growth and knowing that I play a part in their success brings me immense satisfaction and joy.

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

MC : In reflecting upon my participation in the A’ Design Award, I must say it was an extraordinarily enriching experience. The meticulous feedback provided during the submission phase was instrumental in refining my work to a higher standard. Engaging with former winners was particularly enlightening; it afforded me a deeper understanding of contemporary design trends and practices. Being honored as Designer of the Day is definitely the best part of it. Overall, the experience was a harmonious blend of educational enrichment, inspirational exchange, and professional acknowledgment, all of which have profoundly influenced my career trajectory.

Mingzhi Cai Profile