Hello, I am Naira Tumanyan, a passionate UX researcher and designer based in Ann Arbor, MI. I help teams gain user insights, provide recommendations to shape products and services, and create seamless and enjoyable user experiences. I hold an MS in Human-Centered Design and Engineering from the University of Michigan and an MA in Sociology. Additionally, I am a Certified Project Management Professional with years of experience in project management and communication.
What excites me most about UX design is the opportunity to contribute to the creation of products and services that are accessible and bring joy and satisfaction to users, enriching their lives in meaningful ways. It is more than just a slick interface, appealing design, or the ability to meet functional requirements - it is about crafting experiences with purpose, empathy, and consideration, incorporating more inclusive and ethical design practices, forging connections, and building trust.
My journey to UX research and design:
My journey is woven with threads of sociology and project management, creating a unique tapestry of skills and perspectives that set me apart in the world of UX design.
My background in sociology is not just a footnote on my resume; it is the cornerstone of my approach to UX design. Studying and understanding human behavior, psychology, social trends, and cultural influences have equipped me with a deep understanding of the intricacies of human interactions. The ability to empathize with diverse user groups and the understanding of their needs, goals, desires, and frustrations using qualitative and quantitative methods drives me to craft interfaces and experiences that resonate with users, are accessible, and create joy.
In project management and years of experience in higher education, I honed my problem-solving and communication skills, ensuring successful project delivery by coordinating complex tasks and aligning stakeholders with business goals. This experience has proven to be invaluable in the collaborative world of UX design.
So, why the shift to UX design, you ask? My interest in human-centered research and design developed as I began paying closer attention to various designs and observed instances where the solutions felt inherently intuitive and seamless while I also witnessed moments where some designs fell short of being physically, cognitively, and emotionally intuitive. As a user myself, I admire and appreciate designs that facilitate a smooth and effortless user experience, and in other situations, I question why certain tasks are needlessly difficult and complex, often musing, "There must be a better way... Why is this so challenging?"
Trained to trust data and critically think about interactions and human behavior, I understand that the complex connections between products, services, and users are shaped by various factors, including technology, human psychology, individual experiences, social context, and cultural influences. Having data that explains these dynamics enhances the effectiveness and strategic approach to designing products, services, and experiences that are tailored to meet the needs and expectations of users. I decided to focus on studying product design and human-computer interaction. I began my journey by immersing myself in online courses, eager to learn the ropes of UX design. This thirst for knowledge led me to pursue a Master's degree in Human-Centered Design and Engineering, specializing in UX design, to further enrich my skill set and deepen my understanding of user-centered design and principles.
Thanks for stopping by. Let's collaborate and create something extraordinary together!
Want to work together?
Contact me at nartuman@gmail.com
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Thank you!