I have a varied arts background, and a special interest in projects involving consumer advocacy, the arts, entertainment, publishing, children's software, social networking, education, environmental advocacy, travel and cross-cultural content. I work quickly and collaboratively—please see my portfolio for work samples and feel free to inquire about timelines per project.

I became involved with developing strategic communications for business over thirteen years ago. Technology attracted me because of its possibilities for creativity and innovation—but for me, work in this area is still all about the people it serves.

I specialize in simplifying complex information and interactions, and making the experience of using an interface compelling to every day users. I started in the field of strategic design as a graphic designer briefly, then became an information designer/ writer at the multidisciplinary design firm Fitch, and transitioned into freelance UX design in 1999 after I left my instructional design position at Apple. Much of my UX work has been with high-functionality sites and desktop applications that require strategic user pathing and support for a wide variety of tasks. An east coast native, I moved to New York in September of 2007 after 10 years in the San Francisco and silicon valley area.


Education

UI courses:
~ Interface Design, University of California, Santa Cruz Extension, 1998. Taught by Elizabeth Dykstra-Erikson, formerly of Apple Computer, this class was critical to my career and understanding of good UI process.
~ Cross-cultural user interface design, Aaron Marcus and Associates, 2000.

M.A., Professional Writing - Carnegie Mellon University. 1994.
A usability-centered business writing program, where I focused on image/ text integration.

B.A., Art (minor in piano) - Millersville University. 1992.
Magna Cum Laude, University Honors Program graduate with thesis in Art History (German Expressionism).