What drives a great user experience?
This is the question that inspires me every day as a product designer. It’s why I’m as happy crafting a thoughtful screen as I am creating a research plan, or strategizing a long-term roadmap, or helping a junior designer think through a problem, or thinking up ways to make a product team run more efficiently. I’m a self-starter at heart, and you can count on me to obsess over the whole pie - not just my slice of it. Mmmh - pie.
Some random facts about me:
I have a crippling dependency on chocolate peanut butter icecream.
It’s been said that my handwriting is like a font.
I am a serial dog stalker (including my own).
I was once headed for law school because I loved taking facts and making a case. Now I use those analytical powers to make cases for design solutions.
I work best to the Isle of Dogs soundtrack.
My pandemic cliche was “rare plant day trader”.
Genuinely, I dislike most pants. 👖
For a different POV, here are some kind words from former teammates:
“I had the privilege to support and manage Bettina during her time at Belkin/Linksys. Without a doubt, she is one of the best critical thinkers I’ve worked with. Her natural curiosity gives her an edge in solving hard problems. We worked in a complicated networking space, yet she is undeterred in seeking the insights she needs no matter how hard it is, or who she needs to speak with. Bettina does not leave any stone unturned which makes her work strong and defensible. She often challenged me and the team to think in unexpected ways – which often resulted in great outcomes.
On top of all that, Bettina is a confident presenter, gifted writer, illustrator and is often seen cheering her teammates along. I truly miss working with Bettina and would work with her again in a heartbeat. If you have the opportunity to work with her, take it.”
Jamie Bolton, UX Manager, Linksys
“Bettina is one of the best designers I've ever had the pleasure of managing and working with.
When I hired her, she had decided to move to Stockholm in 3 months. I convinced her to come work for us for at least 2-3 months since she had blown me away in the interview process. I thought I was getting a star on my team and I got a superstar. She's amazing at asking the right questions to get to the why, brainstorming creative solutions, and creating phenomenal user experiences. Her attention to detail and ability to design user interfaces is incredible.
Her superpower is injecting delight in every design she produces, and it sets her apart! She's wonderful to work with: smart, fun, funny, proactive, committed, empathetic, energetic, and kind! I cannot wait until our paths cross again - I'd hire her again in a heartbeat (and hope I get to soon)!”
Gabrielle Bufrem, Head of Product, Little Otter Health
I also have a passion for mentoring fellow (and future) designers.
Are you a new designer, wondering how to position yourself for your first job? Or do you already have experience, and are wondering what’s next? Or maybe you’re wondering how to make a great portfolio? Or how to strategize that nerve-wracking whiteboard challenge?
Somewhere along my meandering design journey, I’ve gained a good amount of insight - mostly the hard way. I’d love to talk about it with you. Go ahead and book some time with me on ADPList.
But enough about me,
tell me about you.
Have an interesting story? Need advice? Have an outrageous idea to share? I’m all ears, and would love to connect.