15+ Years Experience
Methodologies
Research
Through observational research, I notice subtle behaviors that reveal user challenges. I focus on how users navigate interfaces, where they hesitate, and their instinctive actions.
These nuances uncover usability issues that feedback often overlooks. By observing these details, I identify core pain points and design solutions that create intuitive, user-centered experiences.
Design
Design Thinking is my primary approach to addressing complex problems. It also serves as the focus during the initial stages of any challenge I encounter.
For faster prototyping, I apply Lean UX in the later stages of development.
I keep myself open to utilizing any methodologies to adapt to varying circumstances.
Decision making
I utilize consult and consensus decision-making methods for balanced collaboration and efficiency.
I consult my team and network to gather diverse insights, ensuring that expert opinions shape decisions. The consensus method fosters agreement, team alignment, and ownership.
By strategically balancing these approaches, I create an inclusive and effective user-centered design process.
Values
Embracing human creativity
While lean and agile methodologies can be rigidly applied and focused on efficiency, infusing them with the inspiration and fluidity found in artists' creative processes can help keep designers motivated. I like to remind designers of the power of creativity within structured environments and promote a balance between creativity and productivity.
Learning and leading
The best leaders I worked for were always learning. They were engaging everything from outside sources to their direct reports. I've tried to keep learning when I'm in a position of leadership by encouraging the sharing of ideas and championing them no matter where or who the idea comes from. This forms confidence in junior team members and cultivates future leaders.
Recommendations
Rachel Daniel
VP UX Design & Research
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"Beyond his technical expertise, Steve is a natural leader who fosters collaboration, builds team culture, breaks down silos, and ensures that UX remains at the core of our product strategy. His ability to challenge assumptions, drive process improvements, and champion high-quality design standards makes him an irreplaceable asset to our team."
Vince Herrin
Sr. Director of Software Engineering
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"Steve constantly listens and incorporates developer feedback while maintaining a strong focus on user experience. His deep understanding of product direction and needed functionality ensures every design not only aligns with goals but also exceeds expectations. Steve worked and interacted directly with developers on my teams and always gave valuable direction and asked the critical questions. He is an exceptional designer."
Clay Porter
Sr. UX Product Design Manager
"What sets Steve apart is his versatility—he can seamlessly collaborate with developers and executive-level managers and is always able to explain complex design concepts in any detail needed. He excels at balancing user testing feedback with industry best practices, ensuring that designs are user-centered and aligned with current standards."
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Brittney Patton
Product Manager
"Steve is absolutely incredible at what he does. He is the best designer I've ever worked with. His ability to effortlessly think through the entire process of a product and all the use cases along the way is truly extraordinary. He's able to capture everything necessary and present it in a more than desirable way. He doesn't miss anything!"