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Authors
- Fryderyk Pryjma
- Michał Koch
The role of a Design Lead has become essential in bridging the gap between creative vision and technical execution within software development. Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with Fryderyk Pryjma, the Design Lead at Silk Software House, to gain a deeper understanding of what this role involves and how it significantly contributes to the success of an organization.
The Core Responsibilities of a Design Lead
Fryderyk starts by explaining that a Design Lead is primarily responsible for overseeing the entire design process within an organization. This role involves ensuring seamless interaction between the design team and other departments and frontend and backend development and project management. "I serve as the main point of contact for any workshops, where we identify and map out the client's business requirements, illustrating them through diagrams, high-fidelity wireframes, and user stories," Fryderyk says. These workshops translate business needs into functional design elements, ultimately shaping the user experience.
A key aspect of Fryderyk's role is managing high-level and low-level design tasks. This includes creating wireframes and sketches that outline the application's structure and user flow. In addition, he addresses organizational challenges, such as team size planning and resource allocation. As he puts it, "It's a managerial function that can vary in scope depending on the organization. In my case, I also share responsibilities with the COO, handling process management and team leadership while rolling up my sleeves when needed to tackle specific problems."
The Design Lead as a Problem Solver and Innovator
One of the most intriguing parts of Fryderyk's job is his involvement in solving complex challenges. For example, he is currently working on a digital accessibility report, which requires selecting the right tools, structuring the process, and ensuring the team adheres to best practices in both design and usability. This hands-on approach highlights the importance of a Design Lead not just as a manager but also as a practitioner who can directly influence the quality of the product.
Do You Need to Be a Designer to Be a Design Lead?
When asked whether a Design Lead must have a background in design, Fryderyk offers a nuanced perspective. "At the very least, you need to be well-versed in the fundamentals of application design. While you might find Design Leads in other fields like architecture or industrial design, having a solid foundation in the specific domain you're working in is crucial. Although extensive design experience isn't always necessary, it certainly helps."
Fryderyk transitioned into this role early in his career, driven by a unique skill set that combined managerial acumen with a passion for leadership. His journey started as a UX designer, with experience gained from both his studies and early professional initiatives. "I was hired as a user experience designer from the start, and my experience outside of Silk, along with my education, helped me step into the Design Lead role fairly early," he explains.
Leading by Example: Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Fryderyk's primary focus daily is overseeing the design process across various projects. He stays informed about all ongoing initiatives, assigns the right team members based on their expertise, and actively supports his colleagues by solving any issues. His role also involves staying updated on industry trends and continuously seeking opportunities for optimization in collaboration with other teams.
Another critical aspect of his job is ensuring that external clients perceive the design team as professional and reliable. Fryderyk emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive team spirit, which he believes is essential for delivering the best results.
Final Thoughts on the Design Lead Role
The role of a Design Lead, as articulated by Fryderyk Pryjma, blends strategic oversight with hands-on problem-solving. It requires a deep understanding of design principles, strong leadership skills, and the ability to navigate the complexities of cross-functional collaboration. Whether you're an aspiring design professional or a seasoned manager, Fryderyk's insights offer valuable lessons on the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and team empowerment in the dynamic world of software development.