Discussion Archive: August 2007

My definition of "designer"

Admittedly, this has been for the most part a semantic argument, but clearly one that many of us feel strongly enough about to keep the dialogue going. It seems that there are some who believe that performing a design activity qualifies one as a "designer", no matter how infrequently or successfully. I believe this is a matter of interpretation, and I'm willing to say why I think that interpretation is flawed.

But first, here's what I think a "designer" is.

A designer is one who performs design activities as a primary part of his or her vocation or profession.

JOB: Information Architect at Sling Media in New York, NY

Job Title: Information Architect
Location: North America - New York, NY
Department: Sling Media Entertainment Group
Reports To: Sr. Dir Product Development

Sling Media is a digital lifestyle products company, focused on creating
empowering entertainment experiences for consumers. Sling Media's award
winning Slingbox turns any Internet-connected PC, Mac, or mobile device into
your home television allowing you to watch your TV virtually anywhere in the
world.

Conventions for Drawers & Window Shades

We're looking at using some drawer and window-shade-like patterns for some
applications lately, and realizing that there are a lot of subtle
interaction choices that don't have obvious answers.

Are there any conventions that anyone's aware of? We've tried looking for
them -- but what we find is that this sort of device is used in many
places for so many different things that its behavior/logic is hard to
nail down. Even in some of Apple's applications, this seems to be one of
the less standardized elements.

1. Are there any examples of how this sort of thing works *very well*?

2.

BLACKBAUD Job: Interaction Designer: Charleston, SC: Full Time

INTERACTION DESIGNER

POSITION TYPE

Mid level, non-supervisory

DESCRIPTION

A unique blend of artist and technology enthusiast, you have a passion
for how interface and interaction design can help make the world a
better place. Like our customers, you see the world as it can be and use
your creative, analytical, and negotiation skills to drive toward
elegant solutions that help our customers fulfill their non-profit
missions.