We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Bi Leying ("BL").
Bi Leying is an interaction designer specializing in user experience, with a strong focus on gamified system design. She employs structured methodologies such as HMW (How Might We) and affinity mapping to ensure rigorous design reasoning and user-centric solutions. Transitioning from geology to design, her interdisciplinary background reflects a passion for innovation and problem-solving. Committed to advancing user experience research, she will pursue a master’s degree in design in 2025.
Bi Leying Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Bi Leying.
Bi Leying Design - Vision Auction Online Jewelry Bidding
Designer Interview of Bi Leying:
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?
BL : I began my academic journey in Earth Sciences, where I realized my need for a logical yet creative outlet. Post-graduation, I immersed myself in various design workshops and seminars, exploring industrial, interaction, and game design. A pivotal moment was my first group project, "Myersventure," which received positive feedback and affirmed my path in design. Since then, I've been delving into UX design within VR/AR contexts. My constant influx of ideas and creative drive naturally led me to this profession.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
BL : Buling is my personal design studio, currently in its nascent stages. I'm actively seeking collaborators, especially programmers with leadership qualities. Over the next year, I plan to expand our portfolio, potentially launching projects in gaming or XR domains.
DI: What is "design" for you?
BL : Design is the process of identifying needs and logically deriving solutions, culminating in expressions that blend aesthetics with technology.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
BL : I am passionate about projects that incorporate gamification to motivate positive behaviors and expressions. Designs that encourage active lifestyles and social interactions resonate deeply with me.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
BL : "Myersventure" stands out as a favorite. Its innovative gamification mechanics fostered genuine online and offline social interactions. I'm eager to see it receive investment for broader implementation.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
BL : As previously mentioned, "Myersventure" was my inaugural project, marking my entry into the design world.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
BL : Apple's Vision Pro is exceptional; its immersive experience is unparalleled. I aspire to contribute to Apple's endeavors, enhancing gaming insights and user experiences.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
BL : Engaging with talented designers and conducting user interviews ignite my creativity. Conversations often unveil passionate insights that inspire my next design features.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
BL : I emphasize design rationale and logic, ensuring clear identification of needs and problem insights, leading to well-defined design solutions.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
BL : I aim for my designs to be genuinely useful, providing users with convenience and inspiration. Earning users' trust is paramount to me.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
BL : I feel a mix of excitement and gratitude, seeing ideas come to fruition and impact users positively.
DI: What makes a design successful?
BL : Effective communication and genuine exploration of real-world needs are the cornerstones of successful design.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
BL : I assess whether the design effectively addresses real needs and delivers tangible benefits to users.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
BL : Designers should enhance user experiences and provoke thoughtful reflection, contributing positively to society and the environment.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
BL : Design's future is intertwined with technological advancements. As mediums evolve, so will design focuses. In interaction and experience design, mixed reality stands out as a significant frontier.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
BL : I haven't participated in exhibitions yet but eagerly anticipate my upcoming involvement in an A' Design Award-led exhibition.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
BL : User feedback is a primary source of inspiration. I stay updated with cutting-edge designs and trends, continually exploring new experiences and technologies to maintain a fresh perspective.
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?
BL : My designs often incorporate social elements, reflecting my passion for social interactions and the belief that strong relationships foster personal growth.
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?
BL : I reside in China, a nation rich in cultural heritage. I'm enthusiastic about delving deeper into this heritage in future projects. China's streamlined development processes are advantageous, though market deployment can present challenges.
DI: How do you work with companies?
BL : I'm open to engaging with various companies, seeking collaborative opportunities that align with mutual goals.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
BL : Continuous improvement and keen observation are vital. I value designers who demonstrate growth and evolving quality in their work.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
BL : I employ the Double Diamond design model, utilizing affinity diagrams and prioritizing usability testing as essential steps.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
BL : It's challenging to specify. A comprehensive visit to a design furniture exhibition would provide clearer insights.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
BL : I often work late into the night. Afternoons or evenings are reserved for playing Overwatch with friends. Mornings are dedicated to learning. Weekly, I engage in jiu-jitsu training or go shopping.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
BL : As a young designer myself, I encourage peers to actively seek collaborative relationships, laying the groundwork for future creative endeavors.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
BL : I'm outgoing and articulate, especially within China. However, my English proficiency isn't yet at its best, sometimes hindering communication.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
BL : Utilize the "How Might We" tool to maintain clarity in design objectives.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
BL : Discernment is key. Regularly studying exemplary designs sharpens this skill.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
BL : Figma is indispensable. I also utilize Photoshop and Illustrator.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
BL : Working late at night accelerates my productivity. Deadlines serve as effective motivators. Maintaining communication ensures timely feedback.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
BL : Depending on the project's scope, it can range from 1 to 6 months.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
BL : I'm often asked why I transitioned from a different field to design.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
BL : My part-time role at Shenke transformed me from a novice to a UX designer.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
BL : Primarily corporate clients.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
BL : I favor user experience design, relishing the process of uncovering insights and refining user flows.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
BL : In 2025, I'll be pursuing studies at the University of Edinburgh, focusing on advancing XR technologies.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
BL : Both. I adapt based on the project's requirements.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
BL : I'm currently involved in developing a soft science fiction 3D narrative game. Investment opportunities are welcome.
DI: How can people contact you?
BL : Please reach out via email at LYVAN123456@163.com.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
BL : No, thank you. I'm eager to share my progress and future developments.