UX Design: The most challenging part is not how to find the best solution.
When we begin a new project and need to look for additional team members to help develop products and services, a Project Manager will discuss with current team members the skills and talents they are looking for in those new recruits. Usually, we tend to target well-rounded people, those with some outstanding skills, or people with matching interests. The team will even look towards the future and consider whether the new recruits will create value for their team or future stakeholders.
One thing I consider important, and likely will propose at the meeting, is that the new team members work well in a team setting. It is undeniable that skills are important and we need people with diverse opinions and expertise. However, attributes I always look for in a person whenever I am attending an interview are work attitude, professionalism, and positive thinking.
Several years ago, I read an article by Howard Gardner, who was a Harvard psychologist at the time, regarding the Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Previously, people’s definition for intelligence revolved solely around areas such as science, math, and the arts. However, Gardner expanded my understanding of what constitutes intelligence to eight more areas. What I am most interested in is a type of person who is distinguished in some important areas; namely self-understanding, human relations and understanding of others, and the understanding of the value of nature. I believe these three traits are key influences on a person’s ability to perform in certain situations, namely collaboration with others, working for others, and creating out-of-the-box thinking processes. All of which are important in creating new innovations.
Theory of Multiple Intelligences from H Gardner
Skills are trainable, creations can be imitated, and thoughts can be the same or different. However, the biggest challenge in project work is creating a team where everyone feels comfortable enough to express their opinions and debate ideas in a safe and friendly atmosphere. Doing so encourages everyone to try things that are of interest to them but may not be proficient at, improving flexibility of the team. For me, creating a positive team atmosphere where everyone can be the most effectively collaborative is even more difficult when compared to finding the best solution for the end user.
It is certain that the main purpose of working on a project is to find what works best for the end user and to create value for stakeholders’ products and services. Still, before we can reach that point, success relies on effective collaboration among team members. Sometimes when working together, we may have an argument about a certain topic. The reason for this is that we have different perspectives on how we approach and solve problems. Sometimes, an uneasy feeling may occur among the team which may worsen the work atmosphere. It is important to work through these feelings, an essential aspect of a successful team.
Working through these issues shows that the team wants to be there and wants what is best for its users. Disagreements indicate that we are trying our best to satisfy our stakeholders, and present a good opportunity for team members to show their respect towards one another. In order to effectively work in a real-world scenario, an essential skill everyone needs to master is trying not to be too self-centered, as it is normal for everyone to try to express one’s own opinions.
Ultimately, this certainly may not be the best way to determine if someone is qualified enough for the team. It all depends on the organization in which we are working for; there is no such thing as the best way to work. There is no such thing as the best way to make your customers happy. It all begins with one’s own attitude and the building of a successful team that can meet the needs of the project.
