What I Do
I'm a writer, instructional designer and analyst. I help
clients solve problems by listening carefully, asking probing questions, and
conducting extensive research on the problem. I am adept at finding the core
issue at stake and stating it clearly and diplomatically, especially in
situations where stakeholders are in conflict over competing points of view.
As a designer, I create environments that stimulate
interest, encourage exploration, and foster learning. No matter the subject, I
try to provide many points of access and interest for different types of
learners and readers. I try to make the material as accessible and rich as
possible.
Design Philosophy and
Method
I believe that in any interaction, emotion is a critical and
sometimes undervalued variable. In any meaningful experience, what resonates is
what we feel.
In my analytical and design work, I always start by asking,
"What's the story?" People have an innate attraction to and
understanding of storytelling.
When I look for the story, I look for the characters, the
points of conflict, the types of tension – and ultimately, the way to find
resolution. By searching for stories in my analytical work, I can find
the sources of tension that may create problems or provide terrific
opportunities.
In my design work, I like to begin by drafting a narrative
that lays out the major characters, the sources of tension, and the path
to resolution. It's a clear and simple way to explain the analysis that
underlies the design, as well as the way in which the design can solve the
problem.