Head of Design • Design Systems

Re-imaging a B2B video platform at Qumu

The goal

Qumu’s B2B video platform is used by companies around the world to train, educate and inspire their employees.

Following an acquisition of our startup, Qumu grew from 40 to 400 people overnight. As Head of Design, I was responsible for systemising the two company’s product platforms.

Design process

1. Design evangelisation

I worked closely with the CEO to redesign the company branding, visual design language, define our tone of voice and content style guides. I demonstrated the potential of UX design by showcasing design vision and prototypes which visualised the product’s possible futures. I worked with engineering teams across the company to implement the new brand across more than a dozen product touch points.

2. Design management

I made the case to hire two new designers and merge with the Marketing group to form the Experience Team. I managed one junior designer and one graduate designer, leveraging their individual talents to create a fresh and updated creative direction for the brand identity.  

3. Design system

I took the initiative to establish a product design system which powered all of our front end UI. This was before Atomic Design or design systems had been normalised, so making the case for its implementation was a significant win. I managed the design effort of dozens of elements. I worked side-by-side with engineers to implement the system, in code, ensuring accessibility and consistency. 

3. New products

In the absence of a dedicated Product Manager, I managed the design and product delivery of 2 new video editing and playback apps, which we got shipped in just 3 months.

My impact

  • In four years, I established a new user experience function at Qumu with 4 designers.

  • I led the company through a fullscale re-brand and experience overhaul which put consistency and simplicity at its core. 

  • I developed and upskilled two fantastic junior designers, and gave them opportunities which kick started their careers.

  • The design system enabled engineers to create consistent interfaces.

  • I delivered a suite of video players, video editors and studio hardware interfaces - and launching two native apps in just 3 months.

  • The CEO presented my design vision at the company conference, receiving a standing ovation. My work at Qumu helped define the future design direction of the company.