We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Pavel Tahil ("PT").
I’m a Senior UX Designer / UX Researcher with more than 9 years of experience designing engaging and elegant interfaces for desktop and mobile. Through product experiences in the tech industry, digital marketing agencies, and startups, I have crafted a well-rounded repertoire that pushes me to approach design problems from diverse perspectives. In my decisions, I always focus on a combination of human behaviour, data analysis, and adapting technology to meet users' needs.
Pavel Tahil Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Pavel Tahil.
Pavel Tahil Design - College App Efficiency and Communication
Designer Interview of Pavel Tahil:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
PT : My art and design background is a culmination of diverse experiences and self-driven exploration. While pursuing my first degree in engineering, I discovered a deep passion for creativity and aesthetics, which ultimately led me to pursue graphic design at Seneca College in Canada. However, my journey into design extends beyond formal education. As a self-taught designer, I delved into various creative fields, experimenting with photography, illustration, and web design, among others. These experiences allowed me to develop a versatile skill set and a keen eye for detail. It was through this exploration and the realization of the impact design could have on user experiences that I knew I wanted to become a designer, specifically a product designer.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
PT : I currently work at EPAM, a global Tech company specializing in digital platform engineering and software development. Additionally, I was a co-founder of Neowise, a design agency, where we aimed to deliver innovative design solutions for the Canadian market.
DI: What is "design" for you?
PT : Design, to me, is the art and science of creating intentional and purposeful solutions that seamlessly blend form and function. It involves crafting experiences, products, and systems that not only visually appeal but also solve problems and enhance the lives of users. Design is the meticulous process of empathizing with users, understanding their needs, and translating those insights into meaningful and intuitive experiences that delight and inspire.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
PT : I have a passion for designing a wide range of digital products from mobile apps and websites to complex software.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
PT : While my favorite designs tend to change over time, I am currently drawn to everything related to data visualization. I find it fascinating to explore ways of presenting complex information in visually compelling and accessible formats, allowing users to gain insights and make informed decisions. Data visualization offers a unique opportunity to blend aesthetics with data-driven storytelling, creating impactful and engaging experiences that bridge the gap between information and understanding.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
PT : The first project I designed for a company was an app called NPS, which catered to fishing enthusiasts. NPS served as a social network, connecting individuals who shared a passion for fishing, while also functioning as an online store for fishing gear. It was an exciting endeavor, as we aimed to create a seamless and engaging user experience for both social interactions and e-commerce functionalities. The app's success was evident when we achieved a position in the top 5 sport apps in the Apple Store in 2015, a testament to the impact of our design on user engagement and satisfaction.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
PT : My favorite platform to design for is mobile applications, as they offer a rich and immersive user experience within the palm of one's hand. Additionally, I find myself particularly intrigued by emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) and voice user interfaces (VUI), as they present exciting opportunities to create innovative and interactive experiences that push the boundaries of design.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
PT : I feel the most creative when I am inspired by new ideas, exposed to different cultures and art forms, and given the space to experiment and take risks in my design process.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
PT : During the design process, I place a strong emphasis on research to inform my decisions. Understanding the target audience, their needs, and the context in which the design will be used is crucial. I conduct thorough user research to gather insights, analyze competitors and industry trends, and engage in usability testing to ensure the design meets user expectations and goals. By prioritizing research, I aim to create user-centered designs that effectively solve problems and provide a seamless UX.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
PT : When I design, I experience a mix of excitement and focus. The excitement comes from the opportunity to create something new and impactful, while the focus stems from the responsibility of crafting a design.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
PT : When my designs are realized, I experience a mix of emotions. There is a sense of satisfaction and pride in seeing the final product come to fruition and being used by users. However, I also feel a responsibility to continue improving and iterating on the design even after its launch, as user feedback and evolving needs are essential for creating a truly exceptional experience.
DI: What makes a design successful?
PT : A design is deemed successful when it achieves the (KPIs) that were defined at the outset of the development process. This entails meeting the objectives and goals set for the design, whether it be improving user engagement, increasing conversions, enhancing usability, or any other measurable outcome.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
PT : I first consider its overall usability and user experience. A good design should be intuitive, easy to navigate, and fulfill user needs effectively. Additionally, I evaluate the visual aesthetics and coherence of the design.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
PT : The responsibilities of a designer for society and the environment include creating inclusive, sustainable, and ethically conscious designs that contribute positively to social progress and minimize environmental impact.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
PT : The design field is evolving rapidly with advancements in technology, the growing importance of user experience, and the increasing demand for inclusive and accessible designs. The future of design lies in the seamless integration of emerging technologies, such as AI and AR, to create personalized and immersive experiences, as well as the continued focus on sustainability and ethical design practices to address global challenges and create a positive impact on society.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
PT : I visit lot’s of exhibitions every time when I go to London. One of them is the Colours Festival in Camden. I also look forward to my upcoming exhibition in Antwerp, where I have previously enjoyed attending the inspiring “Us by Night” event, which unfortunately paused due to the Covid pandemic.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
PT : I actively seek inspiration from various avenues, including nature, art, architecture, cultural influences, industry trends, and the works of other talented designers. Additionally, I find that engaging in diverse experiences, exploring new places, and constantly learning and staying curious help fuel my creativity and provide fresh perspectives for innovative design solutions.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
PT : I prefer minimalist design that is clean and intuitive. Simplicity and clarity enhance usability and create a delightful user experience. I base my approach on empathy, user research, and iterative processes to blend form and function for complex problem-solving that delights users.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
PT : I currently reside in Newcastle, UK. The cultural heritage of my country undoubtedly influences my designs. The rich history and diverse artistic traditions of the UK provide a strong foundation for inspiration and creative exploration. The pros of living in the UK include exposure to a thriving design community, access to renowned museums and galleries, and the opportunity to draw from the multicultural fabric of the country.
DI: How do you work with companies?
PT : As a product designer, I collaborate closely with companies to understand their goals, user needs, and business objectives. I employ a user-centered design approach, conducting research, creating prototypes, and iterating based on user feedback to deliver intuitive and effective solutions that align with the company's vision and provide a great UX.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
PT : Companies should prioritize clear communication and collaboration, ensuring a shared understanding of project goals, timelines, and expectations. It is also important for companies to consider a designer's portfolio, expertise, and previous experience, evaluating their design process, problem-solving skills, and ability to empathize with users, to select a designer who aligns with their vision and can contribute to the success of the project.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
PT : My design process typically begins with thorough user research and gathering insights to understand the target audience, their goals, and pain points. This informs the creation of user personas, journey mapping, and defining design requirements. From there, I move into ideation and prototyping stages, iterating and refining based on user feedback, and finally, delivering high-fidelity designs that prioritize usability, accessibility, and a seamless UX.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
PT : I appreciate design items that strike a balance between form and function. Some of my favorite design items at home include a minimalist yet comfortable lounge chair for relaxation, a versatile and ergonomic standing desk for productive work, a well-designed smart speaker that seamlessly blends into the environment, a sleek and intuitive coffee machine for a delightful morning ritual, and a thoughtfully designed wall clock that adds a touch of elegance while keeping me on schedule.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
PT : I wake up feeling refreshed and start my day with a morning routine that helps me mentally prepare for the day ahead. This might include stretching, meditation, or enjoying a healthy breakfast. To fuel my creativity, I like to review design-related articles or browse through design inspiration sources. A typical day in the life of a product designer begins with checking emails and messages to stay updated. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, attending meetings, and engaging in brainstorming sessions are common activities. Conducting user research, analyzing data, and iterating on designs through prototyping take up a significant portion of my day. Presenting design proposals, gathering feedback, and refining designs based on user insights are essential tasks. Throughout the day, I make sure to take breaks, go for a walk, or indulge in a hobby to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance. I also like to connect with fellow designers through online communities or social media to share ideas and gain inspiration. As the day winds down, I reflect on my accomplishments, plan for the next day, and prioritise self-care and personal interests in the evening.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
PT : To young, up and coming designers, I would offer these suggestions: Embrace curiosity and a growth mindset, constantly seeking new knowledge and skills, and be open to feedback and learning from others. Cultivate a diverse range of influences and inspirations, finding your unique voice while staying adaptable and open to different perspectives.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
PT : It includes the opportunity for creative expression, the ability to solve complex problems, and the satisfaction of creating meaningful experiences. However, it can also be challenging at times, as designers often face tight deadlines, subjective feedback, and the need to continuously adapt to evolving design trends and technologies.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
PT : Prioritize the needs and desires of the end-users. Designers should always strive to create intuitive, user-centred experiences that address user pain points, solve problems effectively, and provide delight through seamless interactions and thoughtful design decisions.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
PT : In addition to technical design skills, soft skills play a vital role in the success of a product designer. Effective communication and collaboration skills are essential for working with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Empathy, active listening, and the ability to understand and prioritize user needs are also crucial in creating user-centric designs and fostering positive user experiences.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
PT : As a product designer, my toolbox consists of a variety of tools to aid in the design process. I utilize software applications like Sketch, Figma, or Adobe XD for creating wireframes, prototypes, and high-fidelity designs. Collaborative tools such as Miro or Mural assist in sharing and gathering feedback on design iterations. Books on design principles, usability, and psychology help deepen my understanding. Additionally, I seek inspiration from the Twitter design community, online communities, and platforms like Dribbble and Behance to stay updated on industry trends and discover innovative design solutions. Hardware-wise, a reliable computer and peripherals such as an iPad with an Apple Pan are essential for creating digital designs.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
PT : To manage my time effectively as a designer, I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and project requirements, breaking them down into smaller, manageable chunks. I utilize project management tools or techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused and maintain a balance between design tasks, collaboration, and personal time to ensure productivity and prevent burnout.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
PT : It can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the project, the scope of the design, and various other factors. It can range from a few weeks for smaller-scale projects to several months or even longer for more extensive and intricate designs.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
PT : Clients and stakeholders often seek insights and suggestions on optimizing the usability, functionality, and overall user satisfaction of their design.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
PT : I used to work on FIFA 2022 web tool by Qatar Airways. This web tool played a crucial role in providing an integrated platform for purchasing FIFA tickets, hotels, and plane tickets in a convenient and streamlined manner.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
PT : It's companies from the Fortune 500 list.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
PT : I often enjoy the process of creating user-centric and innovative solutions for complex problems. I typically find fulfillment in designing digital products, such as mobile apps or web interfaces, as it allows me to create engaging and elegant user experiences that can positively impact people's lives.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
PT : My future plans revolve around continuous growth and exploration in my field. I aim to stay at the forefront of design trends and emerging technologies. I also aspire to take on more leadership roles, mentor emerging designers, and contribute to the design community through knowledge-sharing and collaborative initiatives.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
PT : As a product designer, I work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to bring designs to life. While I develop the initial designs, I closely collaborate with developers, engineers, and other stakeholders throughout the implementation process.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
PT : I am currently engaged in enhancing my personal e-commerce website that offers my unique and captivating photo art to people from every corner of the globe. The website goes by the name www.thefusion.art and is already up and running, but I am making some improvements to make it even better.
DI: How can people contact you?
PT : If you have any questions or just want to say hi, feel free to contact me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/pavel-tahil/. I'm always ready to assist in any way I can.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
PT : I invite you to check out my personal website at www.paveltahil.com. You'll find some of my fascinating personal projects showcased there.