Tools
Figma — Photoshop — LeonardoAI
Scope of Work
Product Design — Print Design — Program Management
Location
Denver
DesignOps focuses on optimizing the collaboration between people, processes, and design tools. This holistic approach aims to maximize the value and impact of design at scale. By streamlining design workflows, DesignOps eliminates inefficiencies and empowers designers with the research, repeatable processes, and tools they need to thrive. The success of DesignOps manifests in a well-organized and supported design team. Designers, along with potentially UX researchers, feel efficient and empowered to contribute their best work. Furthermore, DesignOps fosters a broader organizational understanding of design's purpose and impact. This can lead to a company culture that actively champions the user-centered design process. This page showcases my contributions to DesignOps initiatives across various organizations. It highlights my experience from both leadership and individual contributor perspectives.
During my product inception phase at Cognizant Accelerator, I identified a gap in the LaunchPad process. While competitive analysis and persona development were included, there was no standardized approach to user research or user testing.
Recognizing the importance of validating product assumptions through research, I discussed this with my manager. We both agreed that incorporating robust user research and testing methodologies would significantly improve the LaunchPad process. To gain buy-in from stakeholders, I proposed a two-pronged approach. First, I would focus on convincing Team C of the value proposition of user research and testing, with the goal of securing budget allocation for these activities. Second, my manager would then champion the initiative with upper management, highlighting the long-term benefits for product success.
Following this plan, I would spearhead the user research and testing efforts for my team, providing real-world data and insights to inform future product iterations.
I had to get up-to-speed on research and user-testing techniques and process quickly. I spent a considerable amount of time researching how to write unbiased user testing scripts. In addition to writing the user-testing scripts I also performed the in-person tests. It was an eight hour event held at FieldWork’s Denver location. I only had assistance from my Lead Developer. Definitely a learning experience and from then on, we used small teams of at least three people to conduct tests.
In addition to writing the user-testing scripts I also performed the in-person tests. It was an eight hour event held at FieldWork’s Denver location. I only had assistance from my Lead Developer. Definitely a learning experience and from then on, we used small teams of at least three people to conduct tests. After giving my presentation, research was officially adopted by the organization and added to our process documentation. After several cohorts of teams employing my research methodology. The company decided to broaden operations into a dedicated research department.
At Cognizant Accelerator, we organized weekly Lunch-n-Learn sessions, requiring a new poster each week to attract attendees. Effective design departments create processes that benefit both designers and organizations. In our case, it allows designers to explore skills beyond their daily product design tasks (such as print design, layout, illustration, and print preflight). Simultaneously, it benefits the organization by boosting attendance and engagement at our Lunch-n-Learns through compelling internal communications. During my tenure, I was well-versed in print design and often mentored fellow designers if they needed any help.
Included are two posters I developed during my tenure. The "Haywire Poster" promoted a particularly impactful Lunch-n-Learn featuring Anthony Catanese, who shared his story of supporting his wife through Multiple Sclerosis. In contrast, the "Ethereum Hackathon Poster" announced a unique event – a community hackathon open to Boulder developers, highlighting the benefits of learning new skills and fostering collaboration.
Beyond crafting a user-friendly 404 page for Cognizant Accelerator, I actively contributed by proposing fresh ideas and fostering designer engagement with the project. We leveraged a tailor-made IBM Carbon Design System, accelerating startup launches and empowering designers for rapid development.
As a DesignOps advocate, I've championed the creation of clear internal communication and documented workflows. This fosters a smooth 0-1 design process for all projects by ensuring efficiency, repeatability, and scalability.
During my tenure at Cognizant Accelerator, I had the opportunity to contribute to the program's culture of excellence by designing the coveted "Best In Show" award. This prestigious honor served as the centerpiece of the LaunchPad team recognition ceremony, acknowledging the most impressive overall achievement within the incubator cohort.
Leveraging DesignOps principles, I actively collaborated with leadership within DesignOps Assembly to develop a SWAG (Stuff We All Get) program. This initiative aimed to generate brand awareness, cultivate a strong organization culture, and foster positive relationships with the brand through high-quality, meaningful merchandise.
Anthony Cozzi
Denver — Colorado
