Interviews med Bi Leying

I studied Earth sciences in my undergraduate years. During my studies, I realized that I was more interested in creating experiences than analyzing the history of the Earth. I care about people’s emotional responses and their interactions with the environment. This led me to explore projects related to interaction design. This September, I will begin my master’s studies in Design and Digital Media at the University of Edinburgh.

People’s feedback during interaction motivates me. I aim to continually improve and reinvent emotional experiences, and to strengthen connections between individuals.

I made a deliberate and determined choice to become a designer. As you may know, I used to work in geology. I went through 2-3 years of transitioning across disciplines, and have since achieved some accomplishments in design and built initial confidence in this field.

I want to enhance people’s sense of connection with the world. Thus, I focus on designing for social interaction and feedback. In recent years, I’ve become increasingly interested in virtual reality platforms, which offer opportunities to build new experiences and explore novel ways humans can connect.

Keep a broad industry perspective, communicate frequently with other designers, and maintain a mindset of continuous learning.

Great designers lead revolutions. Good designers follow trends.

A truly good design brings users positive emotional feedback or significantly improves their lifestyle.

Good design makes users feel cared for. In return, they’re more willing to invest their time and effort, which creates a positive feedback loop within the system.

I would love to design an experience system linking AR/VR with an open-world game. This could be for a game company or a motion-sensing technology firm.

Developing a VR experience for an open-world game — I’m really interested in this kind of project.

I had a great teacher who taught me what makes design good or bad. Since then, I’ve learned to analyze and break down design work through case studies, developing my critical thinking.

Design competitions such as Core77 and IDA have introduced me to many inspiring designers and works.

I admire Apple’s innovative approach to interface design and their development of VR systems. Their work reflects a strong spirit of exploration and delivers truly excellent user experiences.

My latest project, a jewelry auction interface, is my best work so far. It provides a smooth user flow and introduces new interactions. I made measured and thoughtful innovations in the social aspects of the experience, which I consider a personal breakthrough.

Right now, I’m focused on reading design books. I also believe that taking courses and pursuing academic studies are good ways to grow. Ultimately, real industry experience is essential to validate methods and drive innovation.

I never really considered anything else seriously. Maybe I would have become a game designer, a novelist, or someone who connects people, like a host or facilitator — I’m good at building connections.

Design is about identifying a goal and figuring out the best way to achieve it. It’s a process of continuous testing and optimization, always oriented around purpose.

My teacher, Jiayi Chen.

Consistent and positive feedback — from users, audiences, official competitions, and mentors.

The biggest challenge was transitioning between disciplines over three years. Without formal academic credentials in design, it was difficult to even get interviews for the roles I wanted. I had to prove my ability through the strength of my portfolio.

Any medium can be valid — the key is to create a fresh and engaging experience, regardless of format.

Next, I’d like to work on a VR gaming project or a web design project. In the coming year, I plan to sharpen my programming skills to make my designs more accessible and usable.

I want my work to inspire or bring joy to users. Ultimately, I hope a large number of people will use and benefit from what I create.

My teachers expect me to keep learning and growing. I expect myself to develop cultural and technological insight. My family just hopes I get a stable job — haha.

By focusing on user feedback — and also noticing what users cannot express directly.

I’m about to start studying in Edinburgh! I’m excited to dive into learning.

Projects that truly address user pain points, exceed expectations, and deliver surprising joy. I like every design I’ve done so far.

I hope new technologies become more accessible, and that industry knowledge can be more easily shared with learners, lowering entry barriers.

Virtual reality and AR experiences — and the integration of online tech with offline interactions.

Concept development takes around three months. Once the direction is set, a prototype is usually ready in about two months, with iterations taking another 2–3 months.

I always start with research — looking at current market products, user expectations, and identifying what I can contribute.

Face challenges head-on. I love challenges because they make me stronger.

I believe trends set the direction for design. Designers identify insights and respond accordingly. Design alone rarely changes the times — it must work in synergy with technology and culture.

Technology defines the medium, product capabilities, and how ideas are implemented.

I work on a gaming laptop and mostly use Figma.

They shape how users perceive and feel about a product.

I’d love it if they asked about my social media or fan group — that means they’re interested in my work!

I immediately think about its purpose, the technology behind it, and the principles used.

I look forward to meeting my ideal design partner — someone with mature vision and experience. I do believe in co-design; it means sharing ideas and building together.

Designers who are driven, positive, and constantly improving — I’m always learning from them.

Fantasy novels, actually — they give me a hopeful view of the world, and inspire me to build similar experiences through design.

I take courses in areas I’m curious about. I also regularly ask users and friends for feedback, and revise my work continuously.

I’d love to talk to designers at Apple — to understand their standards and receive growth advice for my own work.

I often feel that I haven’t received enough recognition. Maybe it’s time to start managing my social media presence. Running a design account in China can be tricky though.

I like bright, vibrant colors. My favorite place is Hangzhou for its climate. I love meat, especially barbecue. Autumn is my favorite season. I enjoy playing games like Overwatch and Genshin Impact. I admire Apple’s design philosophy, but I actually use Android phones.

Nothing specific comes to mind, but as an extroverted designer, I enjoy teasing shy people at design gatherings. I love socializing and feeling connected to others.

I start each day by making a plan. Checking off tasks gives me momentum and keeps me going.

Not at all — I loved reading and dreamed of being a scholar. I wanted to become an academic back then.

I’m concerned about humanity’s future. I fear we might be a short-lived species. As the Chinese saying goes, "extremes lead to decline." I believe humans will be few in number and significantly evolved by then.

Of course — I welcome anyone to reach out to me!

I began my academic journey in Earth Sciences, where I realized my need for a logical yet creative outlet. Post-graduation, I immersed myself in various design workshops and seminars, exploring industrial, interaction, and game design. A pivotal moment was my first group project, "Myersventure," which received positive feedback and affirmed my path in design. Since then, I've been delving into UX design within VR/AR contexts. My constant influx of ideas and creative drive naturally led me to this profession.

Buling is my personal design studio, currently in its nascent stages. I'm actively seeking collaborators, especially programmers with leadership qualities. Over the next year, I plan to expand our portfolio, potentially launching projects in gaming or XR domains.

Design is the process of identifying needs and logically deriving solutions, culminating in expressions that blend aesthetics with technology.

I am passionate about projects that incorporate gamification to motivate positive behaviors and expressions. Designs that encourage active lifestyles and social interactions resonate deeply with me.

"Myersventure" stands out as a favorite. Its innovative gamification mechanics fostered genuine online and offline social interactions. I'm eager to see it receive investment for broader implementation.

As previously mentioned, "Myersventure" was my inaugural project, marking my entry into the design world.

Apple's Vision Pro is exceptional; its immersive experience is unparalleled. I aspire to contribute to Apple's endeavors, enhancing gaming insights and user experiences.

Engaging with talented designers and conducting user interviews ignite my creativity. Conversations often unveil passionate insights that inspire my next design features.

I emphasize design rationale and logic, ensuring clear identification of needs and problem insights, leading to well-defined design solutions.

I aim for my designs to be genuinely useful, providing users with convenience and inspiration. Earning users' trust is paramount to me.

I feel a mix of excitement and gratitude, seeing ideas come to fruition and impact users positively.

Effective communication and genuine exploration of real-world needs are the cornerstones of successful design.

I assess whether the design effectively addresses real needs and delivers tangible benefits to users.

Designers should enhance user experiences and provoke thoughtful reflection, contributing positively to society and the environment.

Design's future is intertwined with technological advancements. As mediums evolve, so will design focuses. In interaction and experience design, mixed reality stands out as a significant frontier.

I haven't participated in exhibitions yet but eagerly anticipate my upcoming involvement in an A' Design Award-led exhibition.

User feedback is a primary source of inspiration. I stay updated with cutting-edge designs and trends, continually exploring new experiences and technologies to maintain a fresh perspective.

My designs often incorporate social elements, reflecting my passion for social interactions and the belief that strong relationships foster personal growth.

I reside in China, a nation rich in cultural heritage. I'm enthusiastic about delving deeper into this heritage in future projects. China's streamlined development processes are advantageous, though market deployment can present challenges.

I'm open to engaging with various companies, seeking collaborative opportunities that align with mutual goals.

Continuous improvement and keen observation are vital. I value designers who demonstrate growth and evolving quality in their work.

I employ the Double Diamond design model, utilizing affinity diagrams and prioritizing usability testing as essential steps.

It's challenging to specify. A comprehensive visit to a design furniture exhibition would provide clearer insights.

I often work late into the night. Afternoons or evenings are reserved for playing Overwatch with friends. Mornings are dedicated to learning. Weekly, I engage in jiu-jitsu training or go shopping.

As a young designer myself, I encourage peers to actively seek collaborative relationships, laying the groundwork for future creative endeavors.

I'm outgoing and articulate, especially within China. However, my English proficiency isn't yet at its best, sometimes hindering communication.

Utilize the "How Might We" tool to maintain clarity in design objectives.

Discernment is key. Regularly studying exemplary designs sharpens this skill.

Figma is indispensable. I also utilize Photoshop and Illustrator.

Working late at night accelerates my productivity. Deadlines serve as effective motivators. Maintaining communication ensures timely feedback.

Depending on the project's scope, it can range from 1 to 6 months.

I'm often asked why I transitioned from a different field to design.

My part-time role at Shenke transformed me from a novice to a UX designer.

Primarily corporate clients.

I favor user experience design, relishing the process of uncovering insights and refining user flows.

In 2025, I'll be pursuing studies at the University of Edinburgh, focusing on advancing XR technologies.

Both. I adapt based on the project's requirements.

I'm currently involved in developing a soft science fiction 3D narrative game. Investment opportunities are welcome.

Please reach out via email at LYVAN123456@163.com.

No, thank you. I'm eager to share my progress and future developments.