Context
From kids' cookbooks to detailed build instructions and chemical experiments, I tackle each design project with the same user-oriented framework. With a talented cross-functional team of editors, illustrators, retouchers, photographers, product designers, and sourcing specialists, we produce activities for kids that are fun and approachable. A key part of our process is conducting user testing with kids to ensure the instructions are clear, engaging, and effective.
Design Process
My approach to designing instructions, magazines, and any other printed collateral for these projects includes the following steps: initial brainstorming sessions with cross-functional partners, wireframes for new format development, handoff with illustrators, photography pre-production and art direction on set, layout design and iteration, presenting to stakeholders (often involving pivots in strategy), and handling final mechanical files for production. A highlight of my role is photo art direction, where I perform competitive research, gather swipe references, and use generative AI to develop placeholder imagery for concept approval. It's so exciting to see photos come to life on set!
User Testing and Feedback
We conduct in-person testing with kids and families to ensure our products and instructions are clear and engaging. For each project, we work directly with the target age group to meet their specific needs. Unlike standard UX testing, working with kids introduces unpredictable challenges – one sugar crash or mood swing can throw off a session! However, this stage is essential – even when a user is tired or disengaged, there are always useful takeaways. Often, these issues can be resolved with thoughtful design adjustments to illustrations, spacing, or layout hierarchy.
Impact
Understanding how kids think and process information has taught me to prioritize clarity and simplicity in design, which is essential for any experience-driven project. It often requires innovative solutions to make complex information more accessible and enjoyable, pushing me to develop unique strategies that can be applied to various user-centered projects. User testing has also reinforced the importance of iteration in my design process. Gathering feedback, making adjustments, and refining designs based on real user input leads to delivering engaging, user-friendly solutions that meet the needs of diverse audiences.