Melissa Z. Email & Phone Number

Chicago, IL, US

Design leader advocating for users by helping executive stakeholders understand and internalize research findings to help connect the world and design for people with little to no digital skills worldwide as a means to democratize information and build stronger communities regardless of whether or not people use our platforms.

Marched alongside passionate team members armed with the knowledge that experience matters. Minimal oversight was needed to identify actionable, impactful ways to improve the user's experience with B2B and B2C companies in industries such as automotive, mobile, healthcare, government, education, and consumer goods to help people use client products.

Fueled by passion to help others, I continue to work on projects that allow me to combine two of my greatest passions (People + Thoughtful Design), even in my spare time.My portfolio includes various pursuits such as:- Worked with engineers to address water and sanitation needs for a village outside of Quito, Ecuador- Improved user interfaces and systems.

Supported with planning, recruiting, conducting, and reporting usability tests for complex medical products pending FDA approval. Projects ranged from 21-day web-based usability tests to comprehensive, in-person testing sessions with representative end-users which lasted anywhere from one to four hours for each participant.

Project H is comprised of professionals with design initiatives for Humanity, Habitats, Health, and Happiness, connecting the power of design with those who need it most and in places where it can make a lasting difference.As the research lead in the Chicago area working on addressing the needs of our homeless youths, it was my responsibility to work with.

Tempe, AZ, US

Worked with different disciplines to solve real world problems in order to learn their various perspectives, which resulted in more comprehensive insights.

Tempe, AZ, US

As a key component in the Applied Research Collaborative studio, I had the opportunity to work with students from architecture, construction, graphic design, and interior design in order to complete projects from ideation to completion, which included:- Helping architects develop a deployable health care facility that could withstand arid regions such as.

Promoted after outstanding performance and invaluable insight as research coordinator. Ensured SAMHSA grant demands were being met or exceeded. Implemented a holistic approach to client research utilizing excellent interpersonal skills which resulted in a 47% increase in follow up rates in less than 6 months. Gained extensive quantitative research.

Master Of Science In Design, Industrial Design

Bachelor Of Science - Bs, Psychology