Interview
Yu Zihao
1 Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
I am Yu Zihao, currently studying Product Design at Central South University of Forestry and Technology. My journey in design began with a background in product design, where I learned the philosophy of human-centered design. Over the years, I have found joy in conducting user research, observing user behavior, and creating design solutions that truly resonate with people.
2 What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
My passion for design stems from my childhood days of drawing, extending through high school. I enjoyed observing everyday objects around me, from artworks to furniture and even architectural structures, marveling at how designers solve problems and create new lifestyles. This inspired me to pursue a career in design.
3 Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.
I am currently enrolled in the School of Home Furnishing and Art Design at Central South University of Forestry and Technology. My research focus lies in furniture design, with a heightened emphasis on addressing genuine user needs becoming the central point of my attention.
4 What does “design” mean to you?
Design is a process of discovering, analyzing, and solving problems. It is a combination of innovation, empathy, and aesthetics that makes connections.
5 What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
My favorite concept in design is human-centered design because everything we encounter has been designed in some way. Focusing on people becomes the main theme of future design development, helping to identify and address pain points that resonate with designs, and connecting people from different backgrounds.
6 To you, what makes a “good” design?
Good design is about solving problems directly, and meaningfully.
7 Describe your design style and its main characteristics.
I'm not sure I've established a specific design style yet; I'm still exploring myself. In my design projects, my goal is to combine innovation with technology to create things that truly meet people's needs, prioritizing human-centricity over innovation for the sake of innovation.
8 Tell us about your design process.
My design process involves a series of design research steps. First, I focus on different demographics, adept at identifying their habits and pain points. Then, I analyze existing issues and examine potential problems that may arise during the design process.
9 Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
In China, there is a concept called "humanistic care." I believe that integrating this concept into product design can effectively clarify the relationship between people and products, which has also influenced my design approach.
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 am truly honored to have received the Muse Design Awards 2023, which demonstrates the recognition and support of my design by the IAA International Design Association.
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?
With the advent of the Information Age and the era of Artificial Intelligence, human scientific and technological advances are progressing rapidly. Increasingly, there is a focus on personalized customization and product designs tailored to specific demographics. E-EARS is an intelligent eyewear designed for the hearing impaired. This smart eyewear provides features such as AR digital lens interaction, hazard alerts, and music vibration media functions. Combining style with functionality, allows the hearing impaired to better integrate into daily life and enhance their quality of life.
12 What was the biggest challenge with this project?
I believe the biggest challenge is identifying the genuine pain points of specific demographics and finding ways to analyze and address these pain points.
13 How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
This encourages and emboldens my learning, inspiring me to explore more opportunities on the path of future design.
14 What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?
Solve real-world problems, prioritize people, and break boundaries.
15 What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?
China's science and technology are advancing rapidly, requiring more and more people to adapt to it. Many designers are actively integrating designs that meet people's real needs.
16 Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
Today, with the rapid development of artificial intelligence, which can handle many tasks, designers are constantly pondering, questioning, and becoming more innovative.
17 If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
Stay passionate, stay grounded, stay innovative.
18 What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
Identify and analyze problems.
19 Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
I once dreamed of becoming a fashion designer.
20 Who has inspired you in your life and why?
My friends, family, and teachers who have tirelessly nurtured me have continuously supported me on my design journey, inspiring my creativity.
21 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Being excited and facing challenges.
22 Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
Thank you to the IAA (International Awards Association) for awarding me and for providing encouragement and support!
