W. Brett Polonsky

Philosophy, Team Leadership & Vision

Leadership should be fluid, adaptable, anticipatory, and humble, requiring leaders to possess a keen ability to read the room and pivot effectively when circumstances demand it. Crafting a comprehensive design team vision that not only clearly defines solid foundational processes but also sets explicit expectations is essential for effective leadership. This vision should aim to create a collaborative culture that actively fosters teamwork, resulting in highly engaged and dedicated teams that work harmoniously together to build outstanding and innovative products that resonate with users.

• Availability
  Be there to guide individuals through their creative processes, leaving ample room for innovative thinking while encouraging both personal and professional growth. It is essential to allow for flexibility and individual style throughout this process. Be open-minded and prepared to tackle the complexities that inevitably arise within various projects and the diverse range of people involved.

• Communication
  Be adaptable, transparent, and decisive in your approach to communication. Clearly and effectively communicate with team members on a one-to-one basis to establish mutual trust and facilitate open collaboration, ensuring that everyone truly remains on the same page and is aligned with the project's objectives.

• Accountability
  It’s more than just producing great design work; it encompasses a whole mindset. Lead by example, demonstrating accountability in every action taken. Take ownership of outcomes, whether positive or negative, and actively be supportive of your team members. Allow them the necessary room to freely explore their ideas while simultaneously providing them with the clear vision needed to succeed in their respective tasks.

• Mentorship
  Be there to fully support, enable, protect, and actively encourage your team members, fostering an environment that allows diverse teams to flourish, grow, develop their skills, and ultimately achieve their full potential. This nurturing atmosphere will lead to success in their various endeavors, projects, and future aspirations.

Understanding the user and their unique journey are crucial key factors that significantly help facilitate better design thinking. When we take the necessary time to truly know who we’re designing for, as well as gain a deep understanding of their emotional journey and experiences, we can better empathize with where they currently are, what they genuinely want, and then proceed to create experiences that align seamlessly and harmoniously with their expectations. This thoughtful process ultimately leads to more effective, engaging, and satisfying design outcomes that resonate with users on multiple levels.