June 24th, 2009 by Étienne Garbugli in Random Thoughts
5 Comments
Often times, you start a project with a vision — the big picture. You understand what’s needed and get to work. You build your product up, make it perfect, align it with objectives, data, best practices, trends and send it off to take a life of its own.

People look at it, get an understanding and where visions differ the discussion begins. Parts get changed, elements get thrown out or added to align visions, objectives and understandings.
Continue reading
December 8th, 2008 by Étienne Garbugli in Random Thoughts
10 Comments
Designing systems is what we do. It’s our bread, our butter and even the jam on it. I’ve personally been touching different aspects of design for the last 12 years. I’ve read the books, done the work, learned.
But, this post is not about Web design; it’s about the principles behind a good user experience design.
- Nothing will ever be perfect. Realizing that your ideal for perfection is yours alone will help you focus on the big picture instead of the details. We’re often more critical of our own work than others will be.
Continue reading
November 3rd, 2008 by Étienne Garbugli in Random Thoughts
2 Comments
I don’t claim to be the best presenter in the world but I’m a student of the art of presenting because I realize its importance. Good communication and presentation skills are essential in order to succeed in the industry.
The best idea in the world will not go anywhere if no one is willing to support it. Presentation skills are essential for rallying people to your cause. The following tips should help you get better at it.
The art of presenting ideas, concepts or designs
- Know your objective. It’s not easy to improvise. Always know your main idea; what you’re trying to get at. Create a high-level structure in your head of how you’ll get there.
Continue reading