Designing since high school and armed with post-secondary training in design from the Center for Arts & Technology, Jon Couch brings a rich blend of education and expertise in a variety of industries to the table.
With a wealth of experience and a passion for user-centric design, Jon shoulders the responsibility of steering the UI/UX direction for numerous S4A products. From defining application workflows through low and high-fidelity prototypes to enhancing interfaces and conducting usability tests, Jon is the driving force behind the user experience at S4A. Beyond product design, Jon also led the creative charge for S4A’s new brand and revamped website.
We asked Jon a few questions so you can get to know him better.
Can you tell us what first sparked your interest in design?
I first was introduced to design while doing an elementary school project. Another student used his computer (at the time few people had a home computer) to design an amazing poster, and all his documents looked so professional. From then on, I wanted to get a computer to design things just like him.
In your opinion, what is the most critical element of a successful user interface (UI), and how do you ensure that it’s incorporated into S4A’s products?
IMO, it’s clarity and simplicity – UI’s should be intuitive and allow users to be able to quickly and efficiently interact with it, or find the information they’re looking for. I ensure this is incorporated into our apps by working with the client and functional teams to prototype, refine and test for the most optimal layouts, processes, and designs. Our apps are also constantly evolving and being improved. We listen to our users and will improve various processes, interfaces, and design elements based on feedback.
What emerging trends in UI/UX design are you most excited about, and how do you see them impacting the future of product development at S4A?
The biggest trend in a lot of spaces right now; not just in User Experience, is Artificial Intelligence (AI)! It’s been integrated into everything I use daily like Photoshop, Figma, Canva, Outlook, Team, Google, you name it! I use it as a tool to better my designs, planning and prototyping now and I’m excited to see what S4A can do with the technology in our products.
