Design + Code
I believe it is an important part of the design process to research the technical opportunities and limitations of a problem space.
Collaborating early on with developers is the best way to start ideating together on solutions to a problem. This builds a greater team ownership of the product, a collaborative process for myself and teammates to bring expertise to the table, and the best implementation of wholistic solutions.
As a designer, knowing HTML, CSS and learning React makes collaborating with developers even easier. I regularly pair code with developers and actively contribute to front end development projects, which helps me think about designing problems with both UX and tech in mind.
Inclusive Design and Development
I was fortunate enough to join a course at the CNIB, where I learned how unusable the web can be for people of different abilities. Using assistive devices on websites and applications that have accessibility baked in can be a great experience with the right considerations.
Through continued education and additional courses, I have learned a great deal about accessible design and development strategies and tools that can be utilized and implemented from the start of any project.
Throughout my career, I have had many opportunities to contribute to accessible design systems, developing with accessibility at the forefront, and plan for the testing of solutions to ensure they meet accessibility standards.
Accessibility should not be an afterthought.
