At this stage of my studies, I decided to delve into topics that resonate with me and help identify the best subject for my master’s thesis. To achieve this, I sought experiences that could guide me toward discovering my strengths and interests. One such experience was attending the World Usability Congress—a pivotal event that marked my journey of self-discovery and growth.
I chose to participate as a volunteer, a decision driven by my desire to gain a broader perspective on the congress and acquire firsthand experience. As an interaction designer, my primary goal is to create meaningful products for users. However, I often find myself held back by shyness. Volunteering presented an opportunity to push beyond my comfort zone, meet new people, and engage in meaningful conversations. This experience not only helped me grow as a professional but also enriched my understanding of the user experience (UX) field.
Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone
On October 15, 2024, I attended my first talk by Catharin Walker Eure from Nike. Her presentation, The Exciting Landscape of Generative AI for User Experience, was an eye-opener. She introduced various AI tools that can significantly enhance UX research and design while cautioning against their misuse. Her insights were invaluable, and I eagerly noted tools for different applications:
- Education and E-learning UX Research: Userlytics, Learnosity, and sentiment analysis tools like MonkeyLearn.
- Automotive Industry: Motive AI, Affective, and CarUX.
These tools expanded my perspective on how AI can support and transform the UX design process, encouraging me to explore their potential applications in my future work.
Masterclass and Meaningful Exchanges
The following day, October 16, 2024, was a turning point in my journey. I attended several talks, but the highlight was a masterclass led by Claudia Bruckschwaiger titled Conceptual Design – The End of Fear for Decisions. The session was advanced, challenging me to think critically about decision-making in design. I learned valuable strategies for conducting user testing in corporate settings and, perhaps more importantly, how to advocate for better design practices within my teams.
Later that evening, I attended the gala dinner—a vibrant event filled with opportunities to network and interact with experts in the field. The gala revealed a new side of me: someone capable of approaching others, asking thoughtful questions, and genuinely listening.
One of the most impactful exchanges I had was with Claudio Zeni and Gerhard Kühne. They introduced me to innovative solutions for people with disabilities, such as virtual reality glasses designed for blind individuals. Until that moment, I hadn’t realized the extent to which technology could empower and transform lives. Listening to their experiences and learning about their work reminded me that in design, there are no limits—only opportunities to make a difference.
Growth Beyond the Topic
While the primary purpose of this exploration was to find a direction for my master’s thesis, the experience transcended that goal. The World Usability Congress became an adventure—a journey of personal and professional growth. I gained not only new knowledge and tools but also a deeper appreciation for what design can achieve.
The conversations, workshops, and exchanges inspired me to think beyond my immediate goals. They reminded me of the broader role of designers in shaping a more inclusive and innovative world. For me, this journey isn’t just about learning; it’s about contributing to the design community and discovering what we can collectively achieve.
Final Reflections
The World Usability Congress was more than just an event; it was a catalyst for self-discovery. It helped me identify areas for improvement, such as stepping out of my comfort zone, and introduced me to tools and practices that will guide my future work. Most importantly, it reaffirmed my belief in the limitless potential of design to solve problems and create meaningful experiences.
As I continue this journey, I am excited to explore new horizons, embrace challenges, and contribute to the ever-evolving field of UX design.
