Ziyi Zhou

Choosing to become a designer was instinctive for me. My fascination with art and design, ingrained since childhood, combined with a natural talent, led me to this path. Simultaneously, the problem-solving dimension inherent in design has always captivated me. The exhilaration of discovering creative solutions to real-life challenges is truly unparalleled. As a designer, I find immense satisfaction in transforming ideas into tangible realities, actively contributing to addressing problems for individuals and society at large.

Currently employed at a tech company in the United States, I am genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunities it presents. As a vital team member, my role revolves around harnessing design skills to craft intuitive and user-centered experiences. Witnessing the contentment reflected in the smiling faces of satisfied users brings me great joy, knowing that our work contributes to the creation of value for society.

To me, design embodies a captivating problem-solving journey that seamlessly combines creativity with logic and systems thinking. It draws inspiration from real-life needs, giving rise to solutions and innovations from ground zero to completion. Design permeates every facet of life, from the cups and tables we use to advertising posters, mobile applications, and even cutting-edge cars and rockets—all intricately woven with the creativity and dedication of designers. In its diverse manifestations, design holds the transformative power to address tangible challenges in the real world and enhance the quality of people's lives.

My preferred design style revolves around contemplating the entire product ecosystem. I find joy in employing logical and systematic approaches that prioritize the user's needs, seamlessly blending aesthetics with functionality.

A good design, to me, is human-centered, problem-solving design. Design should create value for society and have sustainable development significance. If a design looks good but does not solve any problems or reflect thoughtful thinking, it falls short of true design.

My design style consistently considers diverse perspectives and needs of various clients. I remain attuned to and proficient in the latest design trends and tools, integrating them flexibly into my projects. By deeply understanding the user experience, I strive to create designs that meet user expectations and provide tangible value. This comprehensive design methodology allows me to adapt to industry changes seamlessly, ensuring that my designs are both contemporary and aligned with user expectations.

My design process is a systematic and collaborative approach that begins with a thorough understanding of project requirements and user needs. I conduct in-depth research and ideation, followed by prototyping to gather feedback for refinement. Collaboration is integral, involving cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Usability testing ensures a seamless user experience, and I remain adaptable to feedback, allowing the design to evolve iteratively. This approach aims to create a final product that meets aesthetic standards and aligns with functional and business objectives, delivering a solution that exceeds expectations.

Born in China and later receiving 5-6 years of higher education in the United States, my design and thinking are a fusion of Eastern and Western cultures. This unique blend allows me to draw inspiration from diverse perspectives, incorporating elements from both traditions into my design approach. It enriches my creativity and broadens my understanding, enabling me to create designs that resonate with a global audience while respecting and celebrating cultural diversity.

Winning the 2023 MUSE Design Awards is a tremendous honor for both me. This recognition signifies validation of our collective efforts, creativity, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of design excellence. It serves as a testament to the innovative spirit and commitment to quality that defines my work.

The winning work I entered into the 2023 MUSE Design Awards is Knovo, an AR+VR educational system in the Metaverse. I chose to enter this project because it represents a significant innovation in the field of education, addressing longstanding challenges and offering a unique solution to enhance the learning experience. The incorporation of augmented reality, virtual reality, and AI to create personalized, gamified, and immersive learning experiences sets Knovo apart, and we believed it deserved recognition for its potential impact on the education industry.

The most significant challenge I faced with this project was the need to pioneer and innovate without any prior reference or blueprint to guide us. Developing Knovo as an AR+VR educational system in the Metaverse meant venturing into uncharted territory within the education sector. I encountered the unique challenge of not only implementing cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality but also convincing stakeholders of their efficacy in revolutionizing traditional learning methods.

From my perspective as a designer, winning the award has been a transformative experience for my career and professional practice. Being honored with this award has elevated the visibility of my work within the design community and beyond. It serves as a powerful credential, showcasing my ability to think creatively, push boundaries, and deliver solutions that stand out in a competitive landscape. This recognition has instilled a new level of confidence in my design capabilities.

My top three favorite things about the design industry include its capacity for innovation and creativity, the ability to impact and improve various aspects of life through thoughtful design solutions, and the collaborative nature of the industry where diverse talents come together to create something meaningful.

Born in China and educated in the United States, my background reflects a unique blend of cultural influences that has significantly shaped my perspective within the design industry. This combination allows me to draw inspiration from diverse perspectives, incorporating elements from both traditions into my design approach. It enriches my creativity and broadens my understanding, enabling me to create designs that resonate with a global audience while respecting and celebrating cultural diversity.

Over the next 5-10 years, I anticipate the design industry evolving towards even more immersive and interactive experiences, driven by advancements in technology such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence. Designers will likely play a crucial role in shaping the interfaces and interactions in the increasingly digital and interconnected world.

For students entering the industry or aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitters, my advice would be to stay curious, embrace innovation, and be open to collaboration. The design field is dynamic, and continuous learning and adaptation to emerging trends are key to success.

Resources I recommend for improving skills in the design industry include online courses and platforms like Coursera and Udacity, design conferences and workshops for networking and staying updated on industry trends, and joining design communities to connect with fellow professionals and share experiences.

We faced internal skepticism about the feasibility of implementing AR and VR in education. Overcoming this skepticism and pushing the boundaries of traditional thinking led to the successful development of Knovo.

My mother, being a tenacious entrepreneur, has been a tremendous source of inspiration and strength in my life. Her unwavering determination and resilience have left an indelible mark on my approach to challenges and pursuit of goals. Witnessing her navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, facing setbacks, and overcoming obstacles with grace and perseverance, has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of resilience.

The key to success for us has been a combination of perseverance, a passion for creating meaningful solutions, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Parting words of wisdom: Stay true to your vision, be open to learning, and don't be afraid to push boundaries.

Yujia Li, Jiaying Wang, Tobey Karpenko, Teena Li.

I would like to express our gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the MUSE Design Awards and showcase the innovation behind Knovo. I believe in the transformative power of design, and this recognition encourages us to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the future.