Author: Sarah Brockett

What Is a Software Designer, and How Can You Become One?

I frequently get questions from traditional graphic design students, inquiring about what being a software designer is like. They want to know more about what I do and what they can do to get their foot in the door as a software maker. The answer to both of those questions can get complicated, but I think I’ve gotten fairly good at boiling it down. Read more on What Is a Software Designer, and How Can You Become One?…

The Macro Impact of Microinteractions – Making Users Happy

I’ll admit it. I’m that designer. I’m constantly sticking my phone in peoples’ faces and exclaiming, “Look how cool this is!”

But I’m never talking about a specific product or trending meme. I’m always talking about a unique and delightful interaction within an application—the thing that gives me the “warm fuzzies”—the microinteractions. Read more on The Macro Impact of Microinteractions – Making Users Happy…

The Developer’s Guide to Sketch

After several instances of developers ooh-ing and ahh-ing while they watch me quickly navigate and edit in Sketch, I’ve decided it’s time for a developer’s guide to Sketch. This guide will start with the basics and then jump into some very handy tips and tricks, equipping you with the knowledge you’ll need to quickly and painlessly dissect your designer’s files.
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Why “Fake It ’til You Make It” Is Bad Advice, and What to Do Instead

Prior to joining Atomic, I was thrilled to read about the six values Atoms live by, with the notion of acting transparently resonating the loudest. This was a relief, since one of the previous pieces of career advice I’d received was to “fake it ’til you make it.” Fortunately, I quickly learned that this was a poor suggestion.
Read more on Why “Fake It ’til You Make It” Is Bad Advice, and What to Do Instead…

The Whats, Hows, and Whos of Empathy for Software Makers

Practicing empathy is for more than designers. Having empathy makes you a better designer software consultant. The notion that being empathetic can make you a better consultant is not a new one. The word “empathy” is thrown around a lot in software, but usually in a buzzword-like fashion. So, what does being empathetic mean in our line of work? How should we practice it? And who deserves it? Read more on The Whats, Hows, and Whos of Empathy for Software Makers…

How to Balance Multiple Projects without Losing Your Sanity

Working in a consultancy can often mean juggling multiple projects and media at once. This work style certainly keeps me from ever getting bored, but if not managed properly, it can also cause some unwanted stress.

However, if I plan my days well, they can be perfectly curated to keep me focused and get the job(s) done. Here are my tips for creating that balance. Read more on How to Balance Multiple Projects without Losing Your Sanity…

10 Tips for Creating a Job-Winning Design Portfolio

We recently opened up our lovely new home to college students from AIGA West Michigan to host their annual student portfolio review, WIP It Into Shape. It kicked off with a panel discussion, followed by a few hours of portfolio reviews.

Overall, I was very impressed with the work shown. Upon some reflection, I realized I had repeated the same advice for improving portfolios a few times. In fact, they were the same tips I gave to students last year, and the year before. This made me think the information needs to be more broadly available. So today, I’m going to share my tips for creating a job-winning portfolio. Read more on 10 Tips for Creating a Job-Winning Design Portfolio…

Five Things I Wish I’d Known As a Design Student

I was recently asked to serve on an internship/job panel for design students at a local university. Upon reflecting on my post-graduation life, I realized some things I wish I knew as a student about to enter the workforce. I compiled those realizations into a list of advice for soon-to-be graduating students.
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Radio Buttons, Checkboxes, and Toggles, Oh My!

Lately, I’ve been noticing radio buttons, checkboxes, and toggles being used almost interchangeably on a lot of apps and websites. Perhaps I’m just noticing the issue more since it’s one I’ve been extremely careful to avoid on my current project. It’s like when you buy a new car and suddenly everyone on your street is driving the same one. Regardless of the reason for my sudden realization, the bottom line is this: Radio buttons are not checkboxes. Checkboxes are not toggles. Toggles are not radio buttons. Each one of these elements serves a distinct purpose.
Read more on Radio Buttons, Checkboxes, and Toggles, Oh My!…