We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Sajindas Devidas ("SD").
I'm Sajindas Devidas, a visionary product design leader with 20+ years of experience turning complex problems into seamless, high-impact digital solutions. With a deep focus on user-centered design, AI-driven UX, and accessibility, I’ve led initiatives that boosted engagement and conversions. As the founder of DoPotluck and co-founder of DoHomeFood, I blend entrepreneurial drive with design excellence. Armed with an E-MBA and a passion for inclusive innovation, I craft experiences that truly connect. "Great design isn’t just seen, it’s felt, understood, and remembered."
Sajindas Devidas Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Sajindas Devidas.
Sajindas Devidas Design - Heavens Elix Kombucha Tea
Designer Interview of Sajindas Devidas:
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?
SD : Ever since I was a kid, I was always drawn to drawing, painting, and coloring-those were my favorite things to do. I’d lose track of time sketching cartoon characters and would get genuinely excited about making diagrams for school projects, probably more than the actual subjects themselves! That early curiosity slowly turned into a real passion for art and design, and as I grew up, it just felt right to follow that path professionally. Honestly, I can’t imagine myself doing anything else!
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
SD : Photon’s creative services blend innovative digital technologies with human-centered design expertise to create meaningful experiences that people love to use.
DI: What is "design" for you?
SD : Design, for me, is about solving problems in a way that’s both useful and beautiful. It’s the bridge between imagination and reality. To me, design is the art of making ideas tangible and experiences meaningful. It’s that quiet bridge between imagination and reality, where a spark of inspiration is shaped into something that not only looks appealing but also solves real problems and makes life a little better. Design isn’t just about colors, shapes, or trends. It’s about understanding people, their needs, their frustrations, their joys—and weaving that understanding into everything you create. Whether it’s a product, a space, a digital interface, or even a simple poster, good design feels like an invisible hand guiding you, making things easier, more enjoyable, and sometimes even inspiring. At its heart, design is empathy in action. It’s the thoughtful details you notice only when they’re missing, the intuitive flow that makes something feel “just right,” and the moments when beauty and function come together seamlessly. For me, design is both a responsibility and a privilege: a way to leave the world a little more thoughtful, beautiful, and a little more human than I found it.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
SD : I love working on projects that have a tangible impact, whether it’s a product people use every day or a brand identity that tells a compelling story. I enjoy designing things that people use every day—like apps, websites, or even simple products that make life easier. There’s something satisfying about taking a problem and turning it into a solution that looks good and works well. I especially like projects where I can blend creativity with practicality, such as creating user-friendly interfaces or designing spaces that feel welcoming and comfortable. Seeing my designs make a positive difference, even in small ways, is what I find most rewarding.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
SD : One of my favorite designs is the Amazon e-commerce platform because it brilliantly combines simplicity with incredible complexity behind the scenes. I admire features like one-click ordering, personalized recommendations, and real-time order tracking, which show a deep understanding of user needs. From a UX perspective, Amazon excels in consistency, accessibility, and continuous improvement. As a designer, I appreciate how they turn complex logistics into a seamless, customer-focused experience that keeps evolving.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
SD : The first thing I designed for a company was a UI dashboard for an e-learning module for an Australian company. I started by creating a clean and user-friendly login screen, then built out the main dashboard experience along with all the supporting pages. It was exciting to craft an interface that would help learners navigate content smoothly and stay engaged throughout their courses.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
SD : My favorite platform has to be Figma, along with its collaborative whiteboard tool, FigJam. Figma is incredible for designing interfaces and creating prototypes, but what sets it apart is how it makes teamwork so smooth. Whether I’m sketching wireframes, sharing ideas with the product team, or handing off designs to developers, everything happens in one place with real-time collaboration. FigJam takes this further by offering a fun, flexible space for brainstorming, mapping user journeys, and gathering feedback while keeping the whole team engaged, no matter where they are. The ability to comment directly on designs, see version history, and co-create live saves so much time and keeps everyone aligned. For me, Figma and FigJam aren’t just tools- they’re essential partners in turning ideas into great user experiences.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
SD : I’m most creative late at night or during long walks. There’s something about quiet moments or being in motion that lets ideas flow freely. Also, I feel the most creative when I’m relaxed and not rushing, like early in the morning with a cup of coffee, or late at night when everything is quiet. Sometimes, new ideas come to me when I’m out for a walk or just daydreaming. I also get inspired when I’m talking to other creative people or looking at interesting art and design. For me, creativity flows best when I have some space to think and let my mind wander.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
SD : I focus a lot on user experience and emotional impact. I want people to feel something when they interact with my designs, not just use them. When I’m designing, I focus most on how easy and enjoyable something is to use. I always try to make sure the design is clear and simple, so people don’t get confused. I also pay a lot of attention to how things look, because a good design should be both useful and attractive. Making sure everything works well together, like colors, shapes, and layout, is important to me. Overall, I want the design to solve a problem and make people’s lives a little better.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
SD : It’s a mix of excitement, curiosity, and sometimes frustration! But mostly, it’s a deep sense of satisfaction when things start coming together.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
SD : There’s nothing like seeing your ideas come to life. It’s a blend of pride, relief, and anticipation-wondering how people will react.
DI: What makes a design successful?
SD : A successful design meets its purpose, resonates emotionally, and stands the test of time. If it solves a problem and people love it, that’s a win.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
SD : I look at usability, clarity, and emotional resonance. If it’s confusing or uninspiring, it’s not there yet.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
SD : Designers have a huge responsibility to create sustainably and ethically. We shape the world people live in, so it’s vital to consider environmental impact and inclusivity.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
SD : Design is becoming more interdisciplinary and human-centered. Technology is opening new doors, but empathy and sustainability will define the future.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
SD : So far, I haven’t had the chance to hold a personal exhibition because most of my design work has been for fintech companies and others where copyright restrictions apply. Now, I’m starting to create designs specifically for exhibitions, and it feels like an exciting new chapter. I’m hoping that within the next year, I’ll be able to organize my own exhibition gallery and share my work more freely with an audience.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
SD : Every day life is my biggest inspiration. I also feed my creativity by reading, watching, and collaborating with other creatives. There is no specific sources of inspirations, I try to follow "Less is more" concept for my designs.
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?
SD : My style is minimalist but warm, with organic shapes and thoughtful details. I’m drawn to simplicity that feels inviting, not cold. My approach always starts with empathy-understanding who I’m designing for.
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?
SD : I'm from India and moved to the US 10 years ago. The rich cultural heritage influences my work-colors, patterns, and storytelling are all part of my design DNA. The pro is endless inspiration; the con is sometimes balancing tradition with modernity.
DI: How do you work with companies?
SD : I like to work collaboratively, involving clients in the process from brainstorming to final delivery. Clear communication is key.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
SD : Look for someone who listens, asks questions, and shows a portfolio that resonates with your brand. Trust the process and be open to new ideas.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
SD : Of course! My design process usually starts with understanding what the project is about and who it’s for. I like to ask a lot of questions and do some research to get a clear idea of what people need and what problems I’m trying to solve. Once I have a good understanding, I start sketching out ideas, sometimes on paper, sometimes on my computer. These first ideas don’t have to be perfect; I just want to get as many thoughts out as possible. After that, I pick the best ones and make them more detailed. Next, I create a simple version of the design, like a draft or prototype, and share it with others to get their feedback. I listen to what they say and make changes to improve the design. Sometimes this step takes a few tries, but it always helps make the final result better. When I’m happy with the design and everyone agrees, I finish up all the details and prepare the files so they’re ready to use. I always check everything one last time to make sure it works well and looks good. For me, the process is about listening, trying new ideas, and not being afraid to make changes until it feels just right.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
SD : Google Mini, Google thermostat, Auto lock system on the main door, Table Lamp and my 85" smart TV
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
SD : Sure! A typical day in my life usually starts with a cup of coffee and checking my emails or messages to see if there’s anything urgent. After that, I like to make a to-do list so I know what I need to work on for the day. Most of my morning is spent designing or sketching ideas on my computer. Sometimes I have meetings with my team or clients to talk about projects and share updates. I really enjoy these talks because they help me understand what everyone needs and get new ideas. After lunch, I usually work on making changes to my designs based on feedback. If I get stuck, I take a short walk or listen to music to clear my mind. In the afternoon, I might spend some time learning new design tools or looking at other people’s work for inspiration. I try to finish my main tasks before the evening, but sometimes I like to work on personal projects or just doodle for fun. Before I wrap up, I check my list to see what I finished and plan for the next day. Then, I relax with a good book, a show, or by catching up with friends and family.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
SD : Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid of failure. Find your voice, but stay open to feedback. And always design with empathy.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
SD : Creative freedom, making an impact, and constant learning. Negatives: Tight deadlines, occasional creative blocks like budget, and sometimes undervaluing of design work.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
SD : Design for people first-function and feeling matter most.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
SD : For a designer, I think some of the most important skills are being creative and being able to think of new ideas that work for people. It’s also important to pay attention to details, because even small things can make a big difference in how a design feels. Knowing how to use design tools and understanding things like color, layout, and typography helps turn ideas into real projects. Good communication matters too, since sharing your thoughts and listening to feedback makes the work better. Finally, being organized and able to manage your time helps you finish projects smoothly and handle more than one thing at a time. All these skills together help a designer create work that is both useful and enjoyable for others. Empathy, curiosity, communication, and adaptability. Technical skills matter, but soft skills set you apart.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
SD : Figma, My Inspiration: The Design of Everyday Things - Book by Don Norman
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
SD : Designing can take a lot of time, so I try to stay organized and plan my work before I start. I usually make a list of tasks and set small goals for each day, which helps me keep track of what needs to be done. If a project feels too big, I break it into smaller steps so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. I also set time limits for myself, like working on one part of the design for an hour before taking a short break. This keeps me focused and helps me avoid getting stuck on one thing for too long. If I ever feel stuck or tired, I step away for a bit and come back with fresh eyes. Most importantly, I try to start early and not leave everything until the last minute, so I have enough time to make changes and improve my work.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
SD : It varies. Logo might take 3 days, while a product can take months from concept to prototype.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
SD : One of the questions I get asked the most as a designer is, “Can you make it look better?” People often want their app, website, or product to look more modern or attractive, and they’re curious about what changes can help. Sometimes they’re not sure exactly what they want, so they ask for ideas on colors, layouts, or styles. I enjoy these conversations because it gives me a chance to explain how design isn’t just about making things pretty, but also about making them easier to use and more enjoyable for everyone.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
SD : One of my most important job experiences was working on a team project where good communication and networking made all the difference. I had to talk with people from different departments, share ideas, and listen to their feedback. At first, it was a bit challenging because everyone had their way of working, but as we started to communicate more openly, things got much easier. I learned how important it is to ask questions, explain my thoughts clearly, and listen to others. Building good relationships with my teammates helped us solve problems faster and come up with better solutions together. This experience taught me that strong communication and networking skills can turn a group of people into a real team, and that’s something I try to use in every job now.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
SD : HSN, Chase, Walgreens, Metlife, Citibank, T.D Williamson
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
SD : I enjoy working on designs that people use every day, like apps or websites. I like this kind of work because I can see how my ideas help make someone’s life easier or more fun. It feels good to solve real problems and watch people interact with something I created. I also enjoy adding small details that make the design special, like a friendly color or a simple button that just feels right. For me, the best part is knowing my work makes a difference for someone, even in a small way.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
SD : In the future, I want to keep learning and growing as a designer. I hope to work on more interesting projects that challenge me and help me get better at what I do. I’d also like to connect with other creative people, maybe join a design community or attend some workshops. One day, I’d love to lead my own team or even start my own design studio. For now, I’m excited to keep improving my skills and see where new opportunities take me.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
SD : yes, I work as a team and I don't develop, although I have experience of working on HTML/css
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
SD : Yes, I’m currently working on designing a better Search and Filter experience for a banking app. This project is interesting because banking apps often have a lot of data, like transactions, statements, and different account types, which can make it hard for users to quickly find what they need. I’m focusing on making the search bar easy to find and use, with features like predictive search so users can see suggestions as they type. I’m also adding filters that let people narrow down their results by date, amount, or transaction type, but keeping the layout simple so it doesn’t feel overwhelming. I want users to be able to quickly filter their transactions, maybe by just tapping a few options, instead of scrolling through long lists. Another idea I’m exploring is showing helpful tips or suggested filters when someone clicks into the search box, so even first-time users know how to get started. I’m also thinking about adding voice search, since a lot of people find it easier to just say what they’re looking for, especially on mobile. Overall, my goal is to make searching and filtering in the app feel smooth and fast, so users can find what they need without any frustration.
DI: How can people contact you?
SD : You can reach me via my email, mobile, or Instagram DM. I love connecting with fellow creatives!