About
As a product designer drawn to the field by my inquisitive and exploratory nature, I approach design challenges with a systems thinking mindset, understanding the interconnectedness of various elements and aiming to develop solutions that harmonize with their broader contexts.
My work is grounded in a deep understanding of human interaction and empathy, developed through my origins in healthcare. Yet, I acknowledge that empathy alone isn't enough; it requires robust support from thorough research and analysis. By integrating qualitative insights with quantitative data, I ensure that each design decision isn't just empathetic but also firmly evidence-based.
Outside of the screen, I spend my time exploring nature trails and crafting detailed travel itineraries. 🌍⛰️✈️🥾
For a downloadable copy of my resume, please email me at allisont.ortiz@gmail.com.
Contact
Projects
In this ongoing project, I collaborated with an agile team of researchers, designers, engineers, and product strategists to build a Kadena blockchain explorer with NFT analytics, an open source Web3 product. Case study in-progress.
As a freelance designer, I created a responsive website prototype that serves as a platform to benefit my client by increasing visibility, attracting new customers, and enhancing their competitiveness in the industry.
Work Experience
Implementing design strategies to refine and evolve the design system and user interfaces for a math educational product tailored for children with ADHD, using research-based methodologies to meet the unique needs of this demographic.
Key Contributions:
• Enhanced the design process by integrating research findings into the workflow, resulting in more user-centered designs and minimizing the need for major revisions
• Produced well-structured documentation for the design system, supporting the development team in translating the design into a functional product without ambiguity
• Incorporated feedback from 6 team members into design iterations, ensuring alignment and early issue resolution, resulting in a cohesive and polished final product
Executing redesign strategies and migrating Building Beats' website to WordPress, alongside integrating a specialized Learning Management System (LMS) tailored for music educators within the nonprofit's framework.
Key Contributions:
• Reduced average task completion time by 63% through streamlined user flows and optimized navigation, enhancing site efficiency and significantly boosting user satisfaction and engagement
• Led the charge in balancing design with feasibility and business goals, ensuring that the product was both practical to implement and aligned with company objectives
• Directed efforts to bring the website in line with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), significantly improving accessibility and creating a more inclusive digital product
Guided the development of a beta SaaS program from product discovery through concept testing, with a focus on promoting equitable career access in the tech industry, utilizing agile methodologies including assumption mapping and research prioritization.
Key Contributions:
• Temporarily promoted to Lead UX Researcher to cover for a senior team member on leave, effectively overseeing a team of 5 researchers and ensuring high-quality key deliverables
• Established tools and methodologies for user interviews and usability testing, integrating data analytics and accommodating over 10 participants per round, resulting in comprehensive user feedback
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams of 25 individuals, aligning research methodologies with project goals to effectively inform product development decisions and drive successful outcomes
Worked within a team of researchers to conduct comprehensive evaluative and generative research, informing the development of a Web3 blockchain explorer with a focus on enhancing data functionality and integrating advanced NFT analytics tools.
Key Contributions:
• Designed and implemented a robust research infrastructure by developing 9 tailored research template frameworks, resulting in streamlined processes and improved efficiency
• Worked closely with teammates to generate and present insights to cross-functional teams, driving interface enhancements that achieved a 28% reduction in complexity and an 18% increase in navigation speed
• Significantly contributed to the creation and enhancement of 4 in-depth research reports, translating intricate data into clear, actionable recommendations for team implementation
Directed the design and development of a B2B digital product and its design system, utilizing UX/UI services including data-driven research, Figma prototyping, and iterative design methods, to enhance user experience and drive business growth.
Key Contributions:
• Managed the design process of a precision machining company's online presence, achieving a 53% reduction in customer search time for service information through a responsive web design
• Developed SEO-optimized microcopy strategies with a focus on clarity and engagement, utilizing communication expertise to enhance user experience and anticipate organic traffic growth
• Delivered 5+ compelling presentations of UX concepts and deliverables to clients, offering comprehensive support and maintenance services throughout the pre-launch phase
Leveraged meticulous attention to detail and problem-solving skills to perform ultrasound examinations at human and veterinary hospitals for 5 years.
Key Contributions:
• Applied a systems thinking mindset to effectively address complex diagnostic challenges, demonstrating composure and resilience in high-pressure and demanding situations
• Tailored scanning protocols to accommodate unique patient requirements and constraints, ensuring optimal imaging outcomes and patient comfort
• Prepared 6+ preliminary reports daily for radiologist review, meticulously condensing complex imaging data into succinct summaries outlining essential findings