Jenny has some stakes in the ground.
A livable future is determined by the choices and environments we commit to today. Media, games, and online spaces are narrative mirrors that shape how we think and act. In their every design decision is the choice toward a world that liberates, or one that closes in on itself.
I believe technology should be convivial, serving humanity's creativity, autonomy, interdependence, and sustainability as part of nature. Digital design is the process of nurturing rituals, symbols, and meaning toward that end. Being a "designer" is a protean title to me, so I'm willing to wear whatever hats this outcome requires.
My Creative Principles
Lead With the Vision
“The ultimate, hidden truth of the world is that it is something that we make, and could just as easily make differently.”
To design is to make something by design. When I’m inspired by a project vision, I seek to clarify its values, affordances, and design criteria—and this is an ongoing process. I holistically consider users, consumers, and stakeholders to ensure the end product is aligned with the future we're all striving for.
Curiosity Over Assumptions
“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.”
Rather than dismissing an idea early on due to an initial bias or negative reaction, I try to unpack what my response reveals about myself and how I interpret the world around me—and whether my interpretations are useful in context. Though this is hard to consistently do, I find that when I let go of overly quick or critical assumptions, I’m more capable of staying open to other subtexts and possibilities, especially what are known as “blind spots” and “unknowns” in Johari’s Window.
Build on Collective Wisdom
“There is a conversation in the room that only these people at this moment can have. Find it.”
Every project is a melding of the unique tastes, knowledge, and perspectives of those involved. Just as biodiversity strengthens ecosystems, cross-functional and interdisciplinary exchange enriches and optimizes creativity. Great insights are revealed where individual experiences resonate or overlap, making the whole stronger than the sum of its parts.
Surprise and Delight
“Anyone who’s a chef, who loves food, ultimately knows that all that matters is: ‘Is it good? Does it give pleasure?’”
A good experience is made of little memories that bring happiness. I strive to design the way I give gifts to friends: with attention to the details. Whether through a clever interaction or beautiful visual motif, I seek wonder and joy in my work. I want to make it taste good.
Axioms I Like
Yes, and
This is the famous first rule of improv. It's hard to get anywhere in creativity if you're always saying “no” and never playing an idea forward.
Ideas are cheap
Execution is expensive.
Kill your darlings
I learned this phrase from Mrs. Wray, one of my high school English teachers, and it has never left me. Prioritize effective work over personal attachment.
Slow is smooth, smooth is fast
This common F1 and military saying means that precision makes speed. Rushing and making abrupt moves in the beginning unsettles foundations and breaks traction.
The map is not the territory
Separating your mental models of reality from actual reality is crucial to pushing their development. Also, territories can change. Keep updating your maps!
As above, so below
Creations are reflections of their creators. Designs are reflections of their processes. Large initiatives are made up of little activities imbued with the same values. I think of fractals and Conway’s Law.
Enjoy and be one with your work
“Whatever the tasks, do them slowly and with ease, in mindfulness. Don't do any task in order to get it over with. Resolve to do each job in a relaxed way, with all your attention.” — Thich Nhat Hanh
Education is expensive, but so is ignorance
Growth never comes cheap. I've spent a lot of time, energy, and money on mistakes that taught me important life lessons. I consider this “life tax,” but I've learned that I can't evolve if I don't pay it.
Every problem has a solution
My mom raised me with this one.
Luck is opportunity meets preparation
Good things take both hard work and opening doors. Outcomes are in our control.
Trends come and go
Almost everything we make will expire—some tastes just have longer lifecycles. Generally, it’s good to err on the side of long-lasting. But it can also be fun, and sometimes the best choice, to make the ephemeral thing.
The devil’s in the details
Sometimes it comes down to the little things, so it’s good to be thorough and do your due diligence.
Always do your best
Your “best” will change based on your circumstances at any point in time, but always be positive and work with what you have.
Done is better than perfect
In the times when our “best” disappoints us (inevitable), accept that progress is better than nothing, then rest and prepare for next time.