Phoebe Ng
Thoughtful, Delightful and Good Lookin’ UX + ID

My Story

I grew up in Hong Kong with five siblings, our family facing financial hardship. My parents struggled to provide even the essentials, so I learned early on to be creative, using scraps and whatever I could find for my projects, which quickly turned into a hobby.

After finishing secondary school, I was fortunate to be accepted into Hong Kong Polytechnic, the only university offering design education at the time. Graduating at the top of my class, I also won first prize in a design competition that earned me a full scholarship to study in the US. It was a big step for me, leaving home for the first time to study at the Institute of Design, Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago.

Since then, I've made the US my home, building a career as a designer. My time at frog design was particularly rewarding, where I became Hartmut Esslinger’s go-to designer. Hard work, determination, and a deep sense of compassion drive both my professional achievements and personal growth.

My Design Philosophy

Putting Users at the Center of the Solution
Empathy is the lifeblood of great design and an indispensable skill for designers of all levels. A design that doesn't reflect a deep understanding of the user's needs and the context in which the design will be used is little more than a guessing game. To create something truly useful, a design must be centered around the people who will use it. A designer must see through the eyes of the users and not let their own creative ego get in the way of a solution that truly meets the needs of those it serves.

Speed is Imperative to Quality
Designing a solution that truly addresses user needs requires a thorough exploration of the problem from multiple angles. A great designer understands the value of iteration and experimentation, rather than striving for perfection from a single idea. To achieve high-quality design, a solution must be carefully considered, visualized, and evaluated. The speed at which the design process is carried out is a key factor in generating a wide range of options and increasing the likelihood of a well-thought-out design. It is through this process that quality is ultimately achieved.

Owning a Design Point of View
Designers have the responsibility of creating designs that not only serve their intended purpose and function, but also delight those who interact with them. However, designing for humans can be a challenge due to the constantly evolving expectations and desires of people. Some designers may defer design decisions to users and stakeholders who lack an eye or taste for design. As a designer, it's crucial to take ownership of the design decision, especially regarding pixel-level details, brand expression, and craft. Bringing your unique point of view to the table ensures that the final product not only solves the user's problem but also delivers design excellence.

Why I am the right fit for your team

As a Design Leader
I inspire and align leaders with a compelling vision that drives success. With expertise in design principles and processes, I work to ensure that the outcomes of design initiatives are strategically tied to business goals, creating tangible value and impact. Through my unique blend of strategic vision, design expertise, and commitment to professional development, I am well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in any organization that values design excellence and innovation.

As a Design Manager
I have a proven track record of successfully recruiting individuals with diverse backgrounds, skill sets, and cultural perspectives to foster a dynamic and inclusive team culture. I believe in creating an environment where every team member is empowered to contribute and collaborate openly and honestly. My unique blend of talent acquisition, project management, and leadership expertise enables me to drive success through the development of high-performing teams and fostering a culture of teamwork, innovation, and growth.

As a Designer
I place a high value on truly understanding the needs and challenges of my users and customers before embarking on any design solution. By engaging in ongoing dialogue and feedback with key stakeholders, I am able to gather the insights necessary to craft innovative, impactful solutions that drive real value and impact. My approach is rooted in a deep commitment to collaboration, empathy, and a shared dedication to excellence, making me well-positioned to lead successful design initiatives and drive meaningful impact.

What I enjoy doing outside of work

I'm an avid reader and an amateur guitar player, and there's nothing quite like getting lost in a good book or strumming away on my guitar to unwind and recharge. But perhaps my greatest passions lie in the worlds of metalworking and robotics. Whether I'm crafting intricate jewelry or building and programming my own robot toy cars. When I'm not busy with my hobbies, you can find me spending time with my four-legged companions - they always manage to bring a smile to my face.