Summary
Building a DesignOps practice from the ground up is not an easy feat especially for a large bank. Everyone looks at DesignOps as the silver bullet. Expectations, right sizing commitments, hiring diverse skills and setting goals and priorities. We started from 2 to 4 then 8 and now 16. Our growth has not been easy. I will share stories and anecdotes how the team has evolved and created visible impact in the organization. The audience will take away key lessons learned and strategies they can apply in their own organizations. We all can become heroes of our own DesignOps story. Takeaways: How to create a visible impact in your organization. How to hire for diverse skills How to set reasonable expectations and priorities
Key Insights
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Design operations enable design teams to amplify their impact through effective systems and processes.
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Understanding team dynamics, including pain points, is essential for successful design operations.
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Onboarding programs are critical for integrating new designers and improving team performance.
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Mentorship and professional development initiatives are necessary to nurture junior designers.
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There is a need for clear career paths that allow for individual contributor growth, not just management roles.
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Communication is key; results must be framed and shared effectively to enhance visibility.
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Design teams should focus on overcoming barriers to enable success in technology and processes.
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Building strategic relationships across the organization amplifies the influence and relevance of design.
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Measuring design's impact in business terms is crucial to validate its importance and influence.
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Collaboration with HR and leadership is essential for creating a supportive environment for design roles.
Notable Quotes
"We have to constantly communicate what we're doing and prioritize our efforts."
"Results don't speak for themselves; we speak for what we do."
"Designers with capital D: We are all designers in this together."
"If we don't create junior roles, we're going to lose potential talent."
"We have to understand what the language of recognition is in our teams."
"Users don't hire designers; businesses do."
"We have to be relentless at saying no to avoid overcommitment."
"Surround yourself with people that will help amplify your impact."
"Design operations is a process improvement and change management culture change."
"Let's embrace what's out there to elevate the business impact of design."
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