Cris Almanza

Design Strategist and Leader

My strengths are design leadership and strategy. I have experience leading 2 different types of design teams in different industries (advertising and mobile app design). I enjoy leading and mentoring teams to help them become the best designers they can be. I also believe in the power of effective processes while always looking for ways to improve.

I thrive in leading workshops for multi-disciplinary teams to achieve collaborative ideation for business innovation. I have 10+ years of management experience and 16+ years of design experience.

DESIGN THINKING PHILOSOPHY

Design thinking tests hypothesis and measures outcomes like the scientific method of business. I believe applying Human Centered Design improves real people’s lives, and that multi-disciplinary teams create more creative and effective solutions through design facilitation. A good design process provides clarity to generate solid strategic direction for any project. Good design solves real problems and keeps evolving until it does.

My Workflow/Design Process

1. Understand the Issues

2. Identify Possible Solutions

3. Execute the Best Ideas

4. Iterate With Feedback and Data

Speaking and Facilitation

I have a passion for human-centered design and empowering multi-disciplinary teams to design together.

My expertise is in facilitating user experience strategy through discovery workshops, information architecture, presentations, user flows, journey mapping, and visual design consultation. I also enjoy giving presentations on design, culture, and process for clients, creative professionals, and all audiences.

See my 2017 IA Summit Presentation