Interview with Rui Sun

My path to becoming a designer began with a deep-rooted passion for art and technology. I pursued a degree in industrial design, which opened my eyes to the world of UX design. I fell in love with the idea of creating solutions that improve people’s lives, and the more I learned about user-centered design, the more I knew this was the right field for me.

When I design, my top priority is always the user experience. I believe in a user-centered approach that balances aesthetics with functionality. My technique often involves thorough research and user testing, which inform my design decisions. My style leans toward modern aesthetics combined with practicality, ensuring that my designs are not only visually appealing but also intuitive and easy to use.

Designing evokes a mix of excitement and satisfaction for me. There’s something incredibly rewarding about transforming an idea into a tangible solution that can help someone. At times, it can be frustrating, especially during challenging projects, but that makes the moments of success even sweeter.

Growing up in China and studying in the U.S. has given me a unique perspective on design. The diverse cultural influences have taught me the importance of empathy and adaptability in my work. My experience working in different markets has also helped me understand the nuances of user needs and preferences across cultures.

My growth path has been all about continuous learning and taking on challenging projects. In the future, I hope to explore more leadership roles, guiding teams and mentoring emerging designers. My dream project would be to create an innovative product that bridges technology and wellness, perhaps something that enhances mental health through design.

Stay curious and never stop learning. The design field is always evolving, so keep up with new trends and tools. Don't hesitate to seek feedback and collaborate with others—it's one of the best ways to grow. And remember, it’s okay to make mistakes; they are part of the learning process.

Focus on the user. Always keep their needs at the forefront of your design process. Also, embrace collaboration. Working with others can spark new ideas and lead to unexpected solutions. Lastly, trust your instincts and be confident in your creativity.

My day typically starts with checking emails and reviewing project updates. I spend a lot of time collaborating with my team—brainstorming ideas, creating wireframes, and conducting user tests. Meetings with stakeholders are also common, ensuring everyone is aligned. It’s a mix of creative work and strategic planning, which keeps things interesting.

I regularly read design blogs, follow influential designers on social media, and participate in design forums. Trends matter, but they shouldn’t dictate your work. It’s essential to stay informed, but always prioritize what works best for your users and the context of your project.

A well-designed product effectively meets user needs and provides a seamless experience. Good design should be intuitive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. It’s all about how well it resonates with users and solves their problems.

I look for a balance of user feedback and my design goals. If it meets the objectives, passes usability tests, and feels right, then it’s ready. Collaboration and feedback loops are key in this decision-making process.

My biggest design work has been the Foreign Currency Exchange Trading System for Citi Private Bank. It was a massive undertaking that required extensive collaboration across global teams. The project challenged me but ultimately showcased the impact good design can have on user experience in a complex financial landscape.

I really admire Jonathan Ive for his work with Apple. His ability to blend form and function in a way that feels intuitive and beautiful is something I strive for in my own work.

My lifestyle is a mix of work and creativity. I enjoy exploring design in various forms, whether it’s through travel, art, or architecture. Coming from China, I carry cultural values that emphasize community and collaboration, which influence my approach to design.

I believe in a collaborative and inclusive work culture. Open communication and feedback are vital. My business philosophy centers around user-centric design—putting the user first in every decision we make ensures we create solutions that truly resonate.

I’m passionate about using design to make a difference. I’ve volunteered my design skills for nonprofits that focus on helping underprivileged communities, creating accessible resources that address their needs.

Attending the A’ Design Award was an incredible experience. I connected with other talented designers, gained insights into different design perspectives, and received valuable feedback on my work. It’s always inspiring to see innovative ideas and share experiences with like-minded individuals.

I’m driven by the desire to create solutions that genuinely improve people's lives. The challenge of merging functionality with aesthetics excites me. I became a designer because I wanted to channel my creativity into something impactful, and design allows me to do just that.

Choosing to become a designer was a no-brainer for me! I’ve always been drawn to art and technology, and design felt like the perfect blend of both worlds. It was an organic choice driven by my passion rather than pressure.

I focus on user experiences, particularly in the fintech space. I’m eager to design more innovative products that address mental wellness and accessibility. Creating solutions that empower users and improve their daily lives is something I aspire to do more of.

Stay curious and keep learning! Experiment with different styles and tools, and don’t shy away from collaboration. Building a solid portfolio is important, but don’t forget to network and learn from others in the field.

A good designer meets user needs, while a great designer anticipates them. Great designers have a deep understanding of their audience and push boundaries creatively, all while ensuring usability and functionality.

A really good design resonates with users emotionally and functionally. I evaluate design by considering how intuitive and user-friendly it is, as well as how effectively it solves a problem. If it brings joy and satisfaction to users, that’s a sign of a great design.

Good design can save time, improve efficiency, and enhance user experiences. Investing in good design is investing in the overall success of a product or service. It creates lasting impressions and can significantly boost user satisfaction and loyalty.

If I had the time, I would love to design a wellness app that combines mindfulness practices with daily task management. It would be aimed at busy professionals looking to balance their work and mental health.

My dream project would be to create a community space that integrates technology and design for mental health support. A place where people can connect, learn, and find resources tailored to their well-being would be incredibly fulfilling to work on.

My secret recipe for success involves a mix of empathy, creativity, and perseverance. The secret ingredient? Being open to feedback and continuously learning from my experiences and those around me.

I draw inspiration from designers like Jonathan Ive and Don Norman. Their ability to blend aesthetics with user-centric principles has had a significant influence on my work.

I really admire the simplicity and functionality of Apple products. Their design philosophy emphasizes user experience, and I appreciate how they manage to create intuitive interfaces that feel natural to use.

My greatest design work has been the Foreign Currency Exchange Trading System at Citi. What makes it great is how it streamlined complex processes for users while providing a visually appealing interface that enhances usability.

Continuous learning is key. I’ve attended workshops, sought mentorship, and taken online courses to sharpen my skills. Getting involved in design communities has also helped me grow and stay inspired.

If I hadn’t pursued design, I might have ventured into technology or art education. Both fields fascinate me, and I enjoy exploring how they can intersect with design.

For me, design is the process of solving problems through creativity and innovation. It’s about understanding users, crafting experiences, and making the world a bit easier and more beautiful.

My biggest supporter has been my family, who always encouraged my creative pursuits. I’ve also had great mentors throughout my education and career who have guided me and pushed me to excel.

A mix of education, hands-on experience, and a passion for learning has contributed to my growth as a designer. Engaging in real-world projects and receiving constructive feedback has been invaluable.

Like many designers, I faced challenges such as self-doubt and balancing creativity with practicality. Learning to accept feedback and iterate on designs was a significant hurdle I had to overcome.

Designers should present their work with a clear narrative, highlighting the problem, the design process, and the impact of their solutions. Visuals are crucial, but context and storytelling bring designs to life.

My next project involves enhancing a user interface for a financial app. Expect fresh ideas that prioritize user experience while integrating innovative features to streamline processes.

My ultimate goal is to create designs that empower users and contribute positively to their lives. I want to make a meaningful impact through my work, bridging the gap between technology and human experience.

People expect creativity, innovation, and solutions that address their needs. They look for someone who understands their challenges and can translate those into effective designs.

Design helps create a better society by addressing real-world problems and improving user experiences. Thoughtful design can lead to enhanced accessibility, inclusivity, and overall quality of life.

I’m currently working on optimizing a dashboard for bankers that enhances their workflow and user experience. I’m excited about the potential impact it will have on efficiency and productivity.

The Foreign Currency Exchange Trading System project was particularly satisfying because it challenged me and allowed me to collaborate with a global team. Seeing the end-users benefit from the design was incredibly rewarding.

I’d love to see a stronger focus on sustainability in design practices. As designers, we have the power to influence positive change and should prioritize eco-friendly solutions.

I believe the design field is moving towards more integrated experiences that combine digital and physical elements. As technology evolves, designers will need to adapt and innovate accordingly.

The timeline varies depending on the project’s complexity, but I typically allow a few weeks for research, prototyping, and iterations. It’s important to balance thoroughness with efficiency.

I start by conducting user research and understanding the project requirements. This foundational step helps me frame the design challenge and guide my creative process.

“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” I believe great design seamlessly blends form and function.

I think it’s a bit of both. Designers can set trends by innovating, but they also need to stay attuned to current trends and user preferences to create relevant work.

Technology plays a critical role in enhancing design processes and enabling innovative solutions. It allows me to experiment and create interactive prototypes that improve user experience.

I use tools like Sketch, Figma, and Adobe Creative Suite for design and prototyping. A good setup with a high-resolution monitor also helps me work efficiently and effectively.

Color, materials, and ambiance are essential in evoking emotions and setting the tone for a design. They can significantly influence user experience, so I carefully consider these elements in my work.

I wish people would ask about the thought process behind my designs. I love sharing the story of how I identified user needs and the journey I went through to create solutions that really resonate with them.

When I see a great design, I often think about the thought and research that went into it. I admire how it meets user needs while also looking appealing. It makes me excited about the potential for future innovations in design!

My ideal design partner would be someone who shares a passion for user-centric design and brings diverse perspectives to the table. I absolutely believe in co-design! Collaborating with others can spark fresh ideas and lead to more well-rounded solutions.

I’ve been influenced by several mentors and peers at Tencent and Citi bank throughout my journey. Colleagues who challenged my thinking and pushed me to explore new approaches have had a significant impact on my design philosophy.

Books like "The Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman and "Don't Make Me Think" by Steve Krug have greatly influenced my approach. They emphasize the importance of usability and understanding user behavior, which are core to my design process.

I developed my skills through a mix of formal education, hands-on experience, and continuous learning. Seeking feedback and being open to constructive criticism has been essential in refining my design abilities.

I would love to meet Dieter Rams. His philosophy on design simplicity and functionality resonates deeply with me, and I’d be thrilled to discuss his views on modern design challenges.

I feel grateful for the recognition, but I try to stay grounded. Fame can be overwhelming, and I prefer to focus on the work itself rather than the accolades. What truly matters is the impact my designs have on users.

My favorite color is blue because it brings a sense of calm and clarity. I love visiting art museums, and my go-to food is sushi. I enjoy the transition of seasons, especially fall with its vibrant colors. A brand I admire is Apple for its focus on design and user experience.

One funny moment was during a design presentation when my prototype unexpectedly crashed on the big screen! I had to improvise and explain my design verbally, which turned out to be more engaging than I had planned. It taught me to be flexible and adapt on the fly!

A great day for me includes collaborating with my team and hearing positive feedback from users. I motivate myself by setting small goals and celebrating progress along the way. I also find inspiration in nature and art, which helps fuel my creativity.

Absolutely! I was always doodling and building things. My family often joked that I was going to be an architect or designer because I loved creating and experimenting with different materials.

In a thousand years, I envision a world where design seamlessly integrates with technology to enhance everyday life. We’ll likely see more sustainable practices and innovative solutions to complex problems, improving the quality of life for everyone.

I want my fans to know that I’m passionate about making a difference through design. I believe in the power of empathy and creativity to solve problems, and I’m always eager to collaborate and learn from others. Thank you for supporting my journey!

As a senior UX designer at Citi Shanghai, I handle the design side of Citi PBWM’s ToB transaction system. My work covers the whole process of delivering digital products—from digging into user needs and fine-tuning wireframes to creating detailed UI designs and coordinating smoothly with everyone involved across the product line.

For me, design is all about crafting solutions that really matter—making people’s lives better and easier in meaningful ways. It’s more than just looks; it’s about understanding what people need and finding creative, practical ways to meet those needs. Whether it’s through physical products, digital experiences, or even broader systems, design is about solving problems with purpose.

I like combining traditional materials with technology adds a unique aesthetic appeal and cultural significance to the design, resulting in a harmonious blend of the old and the new. This type of design exemplifies the power of innovation and creativity to transform and elevate our interactions with products, ultimately enriching our lives

I’m especially drawn to design that mixes innovative tech with traditional materials, especially in things like wearable garments and rehab gear. This blend is fascinating to me because it connects the physical and digital worlds in a way that creates new, meaningful experiences. Integrating advanced tech into everyday items can really push the envelope on comfort, performance, and even health, opening up some exciting possibilities.

I'm more focused and productive during early morning and late night.

For me, “good” design is all about making the user genuinely happy and satisfied. It’s more than just checking the functional boxes—it’s about building a positive emotional connection. Good design anticipates what users want, gets their preferences, and addresses any pain points in a way that feels natural and thoughtful.

AI is set to become a go-to tool for sparking ideas and boosting knowledge for designers. While it brings a lot of potential, the human touch in craftsmanship will always stand out and matter. AI might help with parts of the creative process, but it can’t replicate the unique details and depth that only human craftsmanship can bring.

My design style is a mix of modern vibes with a touch of vintage charm. Before jumping into the practical work, I make sure to spend time on thorough observation. Giving space for reflection helps me tap into my experience to really understand the users’ core needs and pain points.

Once I’ve gathered these insights, I move on to quick prototypes—both digital and physical—to kick off initial feedback sessions with users or clients.

I currently live in Shanghai, China, a vibrant city that beautifully blends tradition and modernity. Absolutely, the cultural heritage of my country plays a significant role in my designs. I draw inspiration from traditional Chinese aesthetics, craftsmanship, and philosophies, which influence my approach to design.

Pros:
Living in such a rich cultural environment allows me to infuse my work with unique elements that resonate with both local and global audiences. The emphasis on harmony and balance in Chinese culture often inspires me to create designs that prioritize user experience and functionality.

Cons:
On the flip side, navigating the fast-paced nature of urban life in Shanghai can sometimes overshadow traditional practices and values. There’s a constant push towards modernity, which can create tension when trying to preserve cultural nuances in design. Balancing these aspects can be challenging, but it also drives me to explore innovative ways to merge the old with the new.

A typical day in my role as a Senior UX Designer at a top Fortune 500 company starts with a morning stand-up, where I sync up with developers, product managers, and stakeholders to align on project goals and any blockers. Afterward, I dive into my primary design tasks for the day, whether it’s refining wireframes, iterating on user flows, or conducting usability reviews on prototypes. I’ll often host user testing sessions or meet with our data and research teams to gather insights that drive design decisions. In the afternoon, I might join cross-functional meetings with stakeholders to review project progress, get feedback, and ensure design consistency across various touchpoints. My day usually wraps up with consolidating notes and preparing any design updates for the next iteration, ensuring our user experience meets both functional goals and user satisfaction. Balancing creativity with technical collaboration keeps my work dynamic, challenging, and incredibly rewarding.

My most valuable job experience was helping Citi Private Bank launch its Foreign Currency Exchange trading system and developing a Margin Check Operating Dashboard for bankers, while also rebuilding FX derivative products. As the sole designer on these projects, I collaborated with global teams from London, India, Singapore, and China. Despite the challenges and pressures, the accomplishment and recognition I gained made it incredibly rewarding. Additionally, my time at Citi deepened my financial knowledge, especially through hosting meetings with front-office end users, which helped me better understand their needs and priorities.

Looking forward, I’m excited to keep exploring digital experience design and the intersection with physical product development. My goal is to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in design and leave a positive impact on user experiences.

For company projects I usually work in a global team across Asia and Europe. For personal projects I work on my own.

People can reach me at rsundesign@gmail.com