We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Alibaba Cloud ("AC").
Alibaba Cloud was founded in 2009, and is a global leading company in cloud computing and artificial intelligence technology. It is committed to providing secure and reliable computing and data processing capabilities through online public services, making computing and artificial intelligence accessible and beneficial to all. The Alibaba Cloud Design is a design team that integrates design, technology, and business. It is dedicated to diverse design in the field of cloud computing technology. It was the first in China to propose the concept of “computational design” and has been continuously exploring, practicing, leading, and evolving in the fields of computational design, digital twins, digital design, intelligent design, experience design, industry digital transformation, and corporate change.
Alibaba Cloud Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Alibaba Cloud.
Alibaba Cloud Design - Datalense Data Visualization
Designer Interview of Alibaba Cloud:
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
AC : The Alibaba Cloud Design Department, also known as the Alibaba Cloud Design Center (ACD), is one of the earliest teams in China specializing in cloud computing design. Founded by Wang Luping, who is also the vice chairman of the Design Standards Division of the China Industrial Design Association, the center boasts a multidisciplinary design team of 150 members, covering areas such as interaction, experience, visual design, and AI design. They not only support Alibaba Cloud's internal business but also extend their services to external industry clients, promoting the deep integration of design and AI technology. The Alibaba Cloud Design Center has achieved remarkable success in the field of design, winning numerous domestic and international design awards, such as the iF, German Red Dot, and China Design Intelligence (DIA) awards. Additionally, they have released several design group standards in the field of cloud computing, including the "Digital Dashboard Visualization Design Guide." In terms of design methodology and system construction, in 2020, the Alibaba Cloud Design Center established the B-Design enterprise-level product design system, providing standardized design specifications and guidance for Alibaba's internal and partner SaaS systems to go cloud. In 2023, with the rise of AIGC technology, they established a new design paradigm for AIGC and developed a one-stop AIGC design platform called PAI ArtLab. The Alibaba Cloud Design Center is also actively involved in design education. In collaboration with the Alibaba Group's Social Public Welfare Department, they have engaged in design public welfare practices, bringing design enlightenment and aesthetic education to rural schools. Moreover, they have partnered with universities to explore new paths in AIGC education and cultivate innovative design talents for the new era.
DI: What is "design" for you?
AC : For me, "design" is an art form that combines creativity with practicality. It is not just about beautifying appearances, but rather a process of carefully conceiving and planning to solve real problems and enhance user experiences. Design has the ability to transform complex needs into simple and elegant solutions. It pays attention to details and focuses on the balance between functionality and aesthetics. Good design can evoke emotional resonance, improve the quality of life, and even drive social progress. It is an interdisciplinary practice that integrates knowledge from various fields such as technology, culture, and psychology, aiming to create valuable and impactful outcomes.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
AC : When my design is realized, I usually feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Seeing my ideas transform from concepts into reality and being able to solve real problems and bring value to users is an unparalleled feeling. At the same time, I also feel excited and motivated, because this is not only an affirmation of my efforts but also an encouragement for more possibilities in the future. Each successful design project reinforces my belief in my abilities and encourages me to keep exploring and innovating in the field of design.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
AC : To judge the quality of a design, I first consider its functionality. The essence of design is problem-solving, so it is crucial that a design meets user needs and efficiently fulfills its intended purpose. Next, I pay attention to user experience, including usability, accessibility, and emotional response. A good design should be intuitive and easy to use, and it should resonate emotionally with users. Additionally, aesthetics are an important consideration; the design's appearance and style should match the target audience and context of use while also demonstrating uniqueness and innovation. Finally, sustainability and social responsibility must not be overlooked. A design should consider its impact on the environment and society, aiming to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
AC : Designers have multifaceted responsibilities to society and the environment. First and foremost, they should strive to create sustainable design solutions that minimize the consumption of natural resources and reduce negative environmental impacts. This includes selecting eco-friendly materials, optimizing product lifecycles to extend their longevity, and designing products that are easy to recycle and reuse. Secondly, designers have a duty to enhance social well-being through their work, such as by improving public spaces, creating inclusive designs that cater to diverse populations, and designing products and services that promote social equity and health. Additionally, designers should use their work to convey positive values and social awareness, fostering public understanding and concern for important social and environmental issues. In summary, designers are not only creators of ideas but also stewards of society and the environment, and their work can have a profound impact on sustainable development.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
AC : The field of design is undergoing a profound transformation. With the rapid advancement of technology, especially the rise of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and sustainable technologies, the boundaries of design are constantly being expanded. Designers are no longer confined to traditional visual and product design but are increasingly involved in areas such as user experience, service design, and system design. The future of design will place greater emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating knowledge from multiple fields such as technology, sociology, psychology, and environmental science. At the same time, design will become more human-centered, focusing on personalized and emotionally engaging experiences. Sustainability and social impact will become core considerations in design, driving designers to create works that are more responsible and forward-looking. Overall, the future of design is an era full of innovation and opportunities, where designers will play a more important role in shaping a better and more sustainable world.
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?
AC : I live in Beijing, a city with a profound historical and cultural heritage that has a significant impact on my design philosophy and practice. As the capital of China, Beijing not only gathers numerous modern technologies and innovation resources but also preserves a rich cultural heritage, such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the traditional hutong culture. These cultural heritages provide me with a wealth of inspiration, allowing me to naturally integrate traditional cultural elements into my designs and create works with unique cultural connotations. At the same time, living in Beijing also gives me easy access to international cutting-edge design concepts and technologies, which helps me achieve a fusion of tradition and modernity in my designs. However, this fusion also brings certain challenges, such as how to maintain the essence of traditional culture while avoiding designs that are overly traditional and lack a modern feel. Overall, living in Beijing enables me to better balance tradition and modernity in my designs, creating works that are both culturally rich and meet contemporary needs.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
AC : Certainly. For young designers, I would like to share some valuable life wisdom and advice. First and foremost, maintaining curiosity and a passion for learning is essential. The field of design is constantly evolving with new technologies and concepts emerging all the time, so continuous learning is key to staying competitive. Secondly, do not be afraid to make mistakes. Every mistake is an opportunity to learn and grow. Thirdly, focus on user experience and real needs. Design is not just art; it is also about solving problems and improving people's lives. Lastly, be patient and persistent. Success does not happen overnight; it requires time and effort. On the journey to pursuing your design dreams, maintain a positive attitude, keep working hard, and believe in your ability to achieve your goals.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
AC : As a designer, I believe this profession has many advantages as well as some challenges. The advantages lie in the ability to positively impact the world through creativity and design, creating works that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, bringing convenience and joy to people's lives. Designers have the opportunity to continuously learn new skills and knowledge, staying attuned to new technologies and trends, which makes the job full of freshness and challenges. Moreover, design work typically offers a high degree of freedom and creativity, allowing for personal expression and innovation. However, there are downsides. Design work often comes with high levels of stress, especially as project deadlines approach. Client demands and expectations can sometimes be difficult to meet, requiring constant communication and coordination. Additionally, designers need to constantly update their knowledge and skills to stay competitive in a fiercely competitive market, which can require a significant investment of time and energy. Overall, being a designer means enjoying the pleasure of creation while also facing the ever-changing challenges.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
AC : In my design practice, the "golden rule" has always been user-centeredness. This means that at every stage of design, from conceptualization to final implementation, I prioritize the needs, experiences, and feedback of users. I believe that only by truly understanding and meeting user needs can design achieve its greatest value. Therefore, I continuously optimize design through user research, testing, and feedback loops to ensure that it is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. In addition, I adhere to the principle of simplicity, striving to eliminate unnecessary complexity in design and present information in a clear and intuitive manner. This user-centered and simplicity-focused approach not only enhances user experience but also makes design more sustainable and adaptable, thus maintaining its relevance and effectiveness in a constantly changing environment.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
AC : For designers, the most important skills include creativity, technical ability, and communication skills. Creativity is the core of design, enabling designers to come up with unique and appealing solutions. Technical ability ensures that these ideas can be realized in a high-quality and professional manner, including proficiency in design software, understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, and so on. Communication skills are equally crucial, as designers need to be able to clearly express their ideas and effectively communicate with clients, team members, and other stakeholders to ensure the smooth progress of design projects. Additionally, understanding and focusing on user experience is essential, as the ultimate goal of design is to meet user needs and enhance their experience. Overall, these skills complement each other and together form the foundation of a designer's success.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
AC : To effectively manage time for design projects, I employ several strategies to ensure an efficient and organized workflow. First, I create a detailed timeline and set milestones at the beginning of a project, specifying deadlines and objectives for each phase. This helps me maintain control over the project's progress and ensures the timely delivery of high-quality design outcomes. Second, I prioritize the most critical tasks, allocating time and effort wisely to avoid spending too much on less important details. Additionally, I utilize time management tools like Trello or Asana to track task progress and manage project workflows. These tools provide a clear overview of task priorities and statuses, enabling me to better adjust my work plans. At the same time, I conduct regular self-assessments and reflections to identify issues in time management and make timely adjustments. Through these methods, I can effectively manage time while ensuring design quality and completing projects on schedule.