I’m Jon Macey, fondly known as Yoggi by many colleagues and friends throughout my career. With over 25 years of experience in the design industry, I have witnessed and demonstrated a remarkable adaptability to significant technological advancements and evolving design trends. From my early days in print design to my current focus on mobile and product design, my career journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a passion for creating impactful, user-centred designs. In this interview, I reflect on my career evolution, the influences that have shaped my work, and the standout projects that have defined my professional path.

Evolution

This image relates to my design career, left to right, I have evolved with Apple at the core (yes, pun inteded).

Can you describe your career journey and how your design approach has evolved over the past 25 years?

Starting at a local marketing agency on a work placement right after completing design college, I was excited and determined to expand my knowledge. I initially focused on print design and learned about typography, layout, and colour theory. As technology advanced, I transitioned into web and interactive media and later moved towards digital marketing. Eventually, I found my niche in mobile and product design. Each step in this journey, marked by adaptability and a thirst for knowledge, has shaped me into a versatile and adaptable designer, always ready to learn and grow.

What or who has been the most significant influence on your design work, and how has this inspiration evolved?

My career is a testament to my passion and dedication. Early on, I was captivated by the timeless work of the Bauhaus movement and Swiss style, which mastered the art of simplicity and impact through clean, grid-based layouts and sans-serif typography. As technology advanced, I found new inspiration in digital innovators like Johnny Ives and Dieter Rams, whose work seamlessly blended functionality with aesthetic appeal. This constant evolution of technology and the creative minds pushing its boundaries have kept my passion for design alive and ever-growing, positioning my work at the forefront of the industry.

Could you share a few standout projects from your career and explain what made them particularly memorable or impactful?

Several projects have been defining moments in my career, each with unique challenges and rewards. Designing the first digital newspaper iPad app for 'The Australian' and envisioning the AMEX Black Card iPad experience for the London 2012 Olympics were monumental tasks that taught me the importance of cohesive brand identity and understanding specific client needs. Co-designing an award-winning iPad and iPhone app for Emirates pushed my skills in user experience and interactive design, challenging me to create something truly innovative. Re-designing the BT Panorama Mobile experience that significantly improved user satisfaction was incredibly fulfilling, demonstrating the tangible impact of thoughtful design.

How would you describe your core design philosophy, and how has it changed with technological advancements and design trends?

My core design philosophy, which centers around creating with purpose and clarity, has evolved with experience. Early in my career, I was heavily focused on impact, striving to create visually striking designs for the advertising industry. However, gaining more knowledge, I realised that true design excellence lies in solving problems and enhancing user experiences. Today, my approach is holistic, ensuring that every design decision serves a clear purpose and contributes to a cohesive and intuitive user experience. It's about balancing aesthetics with functionality and making a positive impact through design.

How do you balance aesthetic appeal and functionality in your product designs?

I aim to create products that are both easy to use and visually appealing without compromising usability or user experience. My focus is on function over form. I achieve this balance through iterative design processes, usability testing, and user feedback. This commitment to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing products is a cornerstone of my design philosophy.

Having worked across print, brand, marketing, digital, web, and product design, how do you approach integrating these different design disciplines?

Integrating different design disciplines requires a deep understanding of the brand and its goals. I immerse myself in the brand's story and vision when working on a project. This foundation allows me to create consistent and cohesive designs, whether a print campaign, a digital marketing strategy, or a product interface. Each element must communicate a unified story, enhancing the overall brand experience. It's about seeing the bigger picture and ensuring every detail aligns with the brand's identity.

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced in your design career, and how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges in my, or any designer's career, has been keeping up with the rapid pace of technological change. Our design tools and platforms constantly evolve, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. To stay ahead, I've made continuous learning a priority. I make time to learn new software, enroll in online courses, and participate in design communities. Surrounding myself with a network of talented and forward-thinking designers has been invaluable. This commitment to learning is a testament to the value of professional development in design, encouraging you to invest in your growth.

What does the future hold for the design industry, and what emerging trends or technologies are you most excited about?

The future of design is fascinating. We are on the brink of significant AI/ML, VR, and AR advancements, which will change how we interact with digital products. I'm particularly excited about the potential for these technologies to create more immersive and personalised user experiences. As designers, we can shape the future of how people interact with technology, making it more intuitive, accessible, and enjoyable. It's an exciting time to be in the industry, and I enjoy seeing these emerging trends unfold daily.

How do you manage client relationships and ensure their vision aligns with your design expertise?

Building strong client relationships is essential for successful design projects. It's all about communication and empathy. I prioritise understanding the client's vision and goals and listening carefully to their needs and feedback. By aligning my expertise with their vision, I can create designs that exceed their expectations. Building trust, which comes from being transparent, reliable, and consistently delivering quality work, is vital. A successful project is where the client feels heard, valued, and excited about the final result.

What strategies do you use to foster collaboration and creativity within a design team?

Collaboration within a design team involves creating an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired. I believe in open communication, where team members are encouraged to share ideas and provide constructive feedback. Brainstorming sessions are a great way to generate creative solutions and promote a sense of connection. Recognising and leveraging each team member's strengths is essential in creating a collaborative environment where originality can thrive. When everyone feels empowered and motivated, the results are always exceptional.

What advice would you give new designers today, and what skills or qualities are essential for success?

I advise building a solid foundation in design principles. Master the basics of typography, colour theory, and layout before diving into advanced tools and techniques. Stay curious and never stop learning. The design industry is constantly evolving, and adaptability is vital. Embrace new technologies and methodologies; don't be afraid to experiment and take risks. Most importantly, be passionate about what you do. Design is a powerful tool for change, and you can make a meaningful impact with dedication and creativity.

How do you ensure effective communication and alignment with project managers throughout the design process?

Collaboration with project managers is crucial for the success of any project. They provide structure and keep the project on track, allowing designers to focus on the creative aspects. I maintain open lines of communication with project managers to ensure we're aligned on goals, timelines, and deliverables. Regular check-ins and updates help address potential issues early on and keep the project moving smoothly.

How do you balance the vision of product owners with user needs and design principles during the design process?

Product owners bring a unique perspective to the design process, representing the voice of the customer. I work closely with them to understand the product direction and user needs. This collaboration ensures that the design aligns with business goals and user expectations. Through iterative feedback and testing, we refine the design to create a product that is both functional and delightful to use.

How do you approach understanding independent small business clients' brand identity and objectives?

Working with independent small business clients is particularly rewarding. These clients often have a deep passion for their business and a clear goal vision. I take the time to understand their brand and objectives, providing personalised design solutions that reflect their unique identity. It's a collaborative process where I offer my expertise while staying flexible and open to their ideas. The result is a design that truly resonates with their target audience and helps their business grow.

Design Evolution, Crafting Purposeful Experiences