Interview
Hsiao Chien Hung
1 Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
I'm currently pursuing a Master's degree in New York City, building on my background in Industrial Design. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Taiwan.
2 What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
I chose to pursue a career in Industrial Design because I believe that designers play a significant role that can positively impact society.
3 Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.
I am currently a student with a focus on sustainable and user-friendly product design.
4 What does “design” mean to you?
For me, design revolves around observation, the connection between users and their environment, and the amalgamation of various forms of knowledge.
5 What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
I appreciate designs that employ simple techniques to fulfill their purpose without unnecessary embellishments.
6 To you, what makes a “good” design?
A good design not only serves the functions of its users but also has positive impacts on other stakeholders and the entire environment.
7 Describe your design style and its main characteristics.
My design style tends to be minimalist and concise, allowing the design to speak for itself.
8 Tell us about your design process.
My design process varies depending on the type of product I'm working on. However, observation and interviews to identify real issues always form the initial step.
9 Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
My country influences my design, emphasizing simplicity and functionality. Studying in New York City has imparted a sense of conveying messages and information through the intricate details of design.
10 Congratulations! As the winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
I was thrilled to receive the award. It motivates me to continue designing and creating more impactful designs.
11 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
It is a novel fire alarm design that utilizes varying frequency sounds to provide visually impaired individuals with directional cues. Additionally, the tactile map is integrated with a signage system in public spaces. The auditory fire alarm sound design and the tactile map work in tandem to assist visually impaired individuals in evacuating during a fire. I decided to submit this design because it is unique and has a significant impact. My hope is that it will inspire people to pay greater attention to the needs of diverse groups in our society.
12 What was the biggest challenge with this project?
The most significant challenge lay in designing the tactile map. Not all visually impaired individuals have experience with tactile graphics, and their interpretations of symbols can vary widely. Finding a way to use symbols that convey meaning universally was particularly tricky. Furthermore, individuals from different cultural backgrounds may perceive symbols differently, adding another layer of complexity to the task.
13 How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
This award serves as an encouragement for me to redouble my efforts in creating more exceptional designs.
14 What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?
Creativity, surprises, and great people. The design industry is filled with unexpected discoveries, where talented individuals and passionate designers all unite in the shared mission of making the world a better place.
15 What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?
The open-minded and humble spirit in my country has nurtured our appreciation for other cultures, teaching me the values of listening, empathy, and observation.
16 Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
In the near future, I anticipate that design will increasingly involve the use of sustainable materials and advanced technology to address global issues.
17 If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
Submit what makes you proud, trust in yourselves, and await the results
18 What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
Appreciate every detail, thing, and person in your life
19 Who has inspired you in your life and why?
Meeting visually impaired individuals at the Braille and Talking Museum opened my eyes to their daily lives and experiences, something I hadn't truly considered before our conversations.
20 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
See, listen, and feel
