Tech Meets Touch: Human-Centered Design in the Digital Age, by Baoqi Ding

Observe The Rise of Technologies in Daily Life

In recent years, we observed the evolvement of cutting-edge technologies driven by big data and computation capability development. Using ChatGPT or Gemini, one can finish a marketing post in seconds. More and more products are testing with in-house AI models, supporting users in completing tasks in different industries, from language learning to planning travels.

An example of an AI-powered service is Midjourney, an AI system capable of generating highly detailed images from prompts and descriptions. This tool lowers the limitations and allows everyone to quickly visualize ideas, creating visuals without learning about graphic designs. You only need a few clicks to create a poster or a logo. It is a great example of how AI can assist in creative processes by interpreting human input and providing high-quality design outputs, making the design more accessible and speeding up the conceptualization phase.

Tech Advancement Doesn’t Ensure Tech Empowerment

Working in this industry, I am fascinated by the impacts of new technologies. However, I often see technology solutions prioritized over human needs, and human sights need to be added to the designs. Putting humans at the center means no more insufficient chatbots that are blocking users from getting accurate, on-time advice and inaccurate generations, which further confuse users. While advancements provide benefits, we must ensure people stay at the forefront. Chinese ancient culture talks about the balance of Yin and Yang, which can also be applied to the relationship between technology and design. Though technology enables potential, we must strike a balance.

Innovating in the Intersection Between Technology and Design

In this digital era, designs are everywhere, influencing people’s behavior and emotions daily. Designers are the creators and translators who hear users’ pain-points, understand the problem, and deliver design solutions based on fully empathizing with users. The most successful designs blend functionality, empathy, aesthetics, and technological innovation. As technology continues to evolve, we designers need to ensure that these advances improve everyday life in meaningful ways. We must ask ourselves before touching on designs if we want technically impressive solutions that lack human understanding. Or ones that solve real human problems?

Raise a Healthier AI: Responsibility and Intelligent Systems | Presentation 

My Journey to Human-Centered Design:

I am a product designer working at an AI start-up. I’ve realized how crucial it is to blend these technologies and user experience to create more meaningful and impactful products. My background in accessory design sparked my creativity, but my shift to UX opened the doors for me to design products and experiences.

One of the critical turning points in my career was my graduate thesis, Raise a Healthier AI. I researched human responsibility in intelligent systems. I separated my work into three parts, corresponding to three aspects contributing to ethical AI: Accountable Data, Proactive Participation, and Inclusive Development. This project made me realize how, when designed thoughtfully, technology can enhance accessibility and user awareness toward building a more delightful future.

In my current role, working for the QuillBot app and extension team, my design philosophy focuses on ensuring that technology serves human needs. Conducting usability and unmoderated tests is part of my design process, where we can observe how users navigate the experience and document the pain-points for further improvement. I believe that design is the tool that makes technology more digestible and accessible. Even the smallest component can make a difference in a design; for example, the tag on the image stock informs users that the image is generated by AI, avoiding misunderstanding and misleading.

Coplus | Digital Platform | DNA Paris Design Awards Winner 

Another project close to my heart is Coplus, which embodies the human-centered approach. Coplus is a learning platform designed to empower women developers by offering personalized mentorship through pair programming and self-development resources. Coplus is unique in its ability to connect women with mentors and role models, addressing the structural gender gap in the tech industry.

Using data-driven analysis, Coplus helps women track their learning progress, build confidence, and network with peers and industry leaders. Another project that aligns with my vision of blending technology with design is an AI-powered travel app I developed explicitly for solo women travelers. This app integrates safety features, community-building tools, and easy check-ins with loved ones to provide security and connection while exploring new destinations. By focusing on a vulnerable yet adventurous group—solo female travelers—the app empowers users with features tailored to their unique concerns, creating a travel experience that’s both seamless and safe.

Journie | Interaction Design, Website and App | Team Work 

In all my projects, I incorporate extensive interviews and stakeholder collaboration to ensure the user’s voice is at the forefront of the design. For example, I interviewed students in different industries while designing an AI writing assistance platform. I learned from them how AI can tackle their writing needs, whether they are working on a thesis paper or pitch letter. This user-centric process allowed me to develop a platform that improved users’ writing skills and efficiency. The tool was created as a writing assistant and helps users find their tone and voice instead of replacing them.

BlackBox | Public Exploratory Design & Installation | User interview 

My work, which spans industries from healthcare to education, reflects my belief that the future of design lies in thoughtful human-centric solutions. Whether empowering women in tech or ensuring safety for solo travelers, my projects aim to foster positive change through design.

Ultimately, the key to blending technology and design is to always place the human experience at the center of the process, ensuring that innovation enhances rather than complicates life.