Ruoyong Hong

My journey into design began with my studies in urban and architectural design, where I first encountered how humans interact with the physical world. As digital experiences and applications gained popularity in the early 2010s, I recognized the exciting opportunities within the digital realm. This realization spurred my pursuit of further education and practical experience in interaction and product design. In this field, I have been particularly fascinated by exploring how people might use intelligent products, such as AI or augmented reality. Throughout numerous explorations and projects, my appreciation for design's role in facilitating respectful communication—whether between individuals or between humans and their environments—has deepened. These experiences have solidified my belief in the transformative power of design, especially in emerging digital and intelligent contexts. Consequently, I am fully committed to my path as a designer, driven by the potential to innovate and enhance human interactions within these new environments.

My journey into design began with my studies in urban and architectural design, where I first encountered how humans interact with the physical world. As digital experiences and applications gained popularity in the early 2010s, I recognized the exciting opportunities within the digital realm. This realization spurred my pursuit of further education and practical experience in interaction and product design. In this field, I have been particularly fascinated by exploring how people might use intelligent products, such as AI or augmented reality. Throughout numerous explorations and projects, my appreciation for design's role in facilitating respectful communication—whether between individuals or between humans and their environments—has deepened. These experiences have solidified my belief in the transformative power of design, especially in emerging digital and intelligent contexts. Consequently, I am fully committed to my path as a designer, driven by the potential to innovate and enhance human interactions within these new environments.

To me, design is a synthesis of technology and art. It involves translating artistic creativity and interpreting technological logic to create products or services that enhance human interaction and experience. More importantly, I view design as a medium of communication—whether between humans, AI, or the physical world. It's about infusing courtesy and respect into our interactions, making the world a more considerate place. From a personal perspective, design is also a lens through which I understand the world and society. The process of design thinking aids me in gathering information and viewing situations from diverse perspectives. This, in turn, shapes a flexible yet confident worldview and enables me to make a positive impact on my life.

As evident from my achievements, I particularly enjoy designing for intelligent products and services. These don't necessarily have to be robots or physical items; they can also encompass interactions and system flows that integrate into daily life, whether at work or within vehicles. The intelligence that AI technology introduces opens up numerous discussions about capabilities akin to human-like intelligence. In designing these systems, it’s crucial to understand the underlying technology as well as the human reactions to it. My approach involves using a human-centric design process in tandem with exploring new principles of intelligent technology. This blend of understanding both the technological and human aspects is what I find most fulfilling and is where I like to focus my design efforts.

My favorite design is Wel AI, a personal AI email assistant that leverages cutting-edge large language model (LLM) technology. This design has earned international acclaim, receiving numerous accolades including a prestigious Gold Award at the Indigo Design Awards, Silver Awards at both the Muse and Vega Awards, and a Bronze A’Design Award. These recognitions not only highlight the design quality but also affirm the innovative logic and thought process behind Wel AI. What makes Wel AI particularly significant is its ability to evolve intelligently alongside its users over time, showcasing the potential of future AI products. Witnessing its transformation from a nascent idea, born before the technology was fully available, to a fully realized product with robust technological integration, has been incredibly rewarding. It's thrilling to see how Wel AI has grown and how it continues to shape the landscape of AI-driven products.

The first—and ongoing—project I designed for Bosch is a comprehensive L2+ advanced driving assist system (ADAS) design guideline, one of the first of its kind in the industry. For those unfamiliar, L2+ ADAS utilizes AI to autonomously control a vehicle from point to point, with the driver supervising. This system represents a significant leap towards intelligent automotive technology in the coming years. My role in this project was to define how the vehicle should communicate and interact with the driver to ensure a safe, efficient, and satisfying journey. The guidelines have been implemented in real-world vehicles, initially with the Chery brand, with more brands to follow. Thousands of drivers have already benefited from these innovations, and the impact is set to grow. This work fills me with immense pride, knowing it enhances driver safety and experience on a large scale.

AI is my favorite technology because it revolutionizes how we interact with products and services. I am deeply involved in this field, constantly expanding my expertise. The more I learn about AI, the more I appreciate its capacity to liberate us from tedious tasks and significantly enhance our capabilities across virtually every conceivable domain. It’s a transformative technology that continually inspires my work.

I feel most creative after testing phases, particularly when I observe people interacting with my designs and gather their feedback. It's always enlightening to see unexpected ways in which users engage with what we've created. This feedback sparks a "chemical reaction" of ideas within me, fueled by previous groundwork combined with new insights. This creative surge isn’t just limited to me; my entire team thrives on this dynamic, generating a flurry of innovative ideas.

During the design process, I primarily focus on two aspects: the logic of decision-making and innovation. Each design decision is rooted in insights and observations about the target users, leading to logical, well-founded solutions. Innovation is equally crucial; it involves thinking outside the box, often challenging and expanding the conventional boundaries of thought. This approach helps disrupt the status quo and introduces fresh, transformative ideas to the design landscape.

When I design, the dominant emotion I feel is nervousness, which I believe is common among designers. This nervousness stems from concerns about whether my decisions and observations are precise and whether they will make a positive impact on the world. Design is a journey of exploring the unknown and finding the right path, where you might encounter anything, good or bad, that can surprise you. This sense of nervousness makes me more careful and respectful towards what I learn and create.

A design is successful when it has a positive impact and the ability to attract followers. A truly successful design not only improves the quality of life but also introduces new concepts for living or working. It should be elegant and replicable, allowing others to adopt and adapt it. With a following, the positive impacts of a design can endure and expand, influencing broader societal or technological trends.

Having had the honor of serving as a juror for the International Design Association (IxDA) awards, I approach design evaluation comprehensively. I consider the clarity of the problem framing, the logic behind decision-making, and the impact on society or business. These aspects are equally important and form the basis of my assessment, ensuring a holistic view of the design’s effectiveness and relevance.

The design field is rapidly evolving with the integration of AI, shaping both how we design with AI and how we design for AI. As AI transforms nearly every facet of our lives, it challenges us to redefine our targets and reconsider how we coexist with this powerful new tool. AI will inevitably automate many repetitive and some explorative tasks, placing a higher value on the uniquely human aspects of design. This shift demands that we deeply consider what these human elements are and how we can accentuate them in our work.

My inspiration largely comes from engaging directly with the real world—observing and conversing with people from all walks of life. Each person's unique story and perspective fuel my creativity. I am particularly fascinated by the everyday creativity of non-designers, which provides an endless stream of inspiration. This approach helps me stay grounded and continually refreshes my creative outlook.

My design style is respectful and logical. I view design as a medium for communication, aiming to create a world that fosters respect not only among individuals but also between humanity and the environment. This philosophy has deeply influenced my design approach, steering me towards solutions that prioritize clarity, function, and ethical considerations. I'm continually exploring how design can play a significant role in achieving this vision, shaping my style in a way that perhaps even affects it unconsciously.

Companies should seek designers who are inherently curious about the world and maintain this curiosity in their daily work. This quality is vital because it drives designers to constantly seek new ideas and solutions, keeping their work innovative and relevant. When selecting a designer, look for evidence of this curiosity in their portfolio and through their problem-solving approach during the interview process.

My design process is structured around four main steps: observe and understand, ideation, testing, and iteration. Initially, I focus on observing the problem and understanding the target audience to grasp the core of what needs to be addressed. This leads to the ideation phase, where I encourage a free flow of ideas without self-imposed restrictions to broaden the scope of potential solutions. Testing these ideas allows for gathering insights and refining them, which then feeds into the iteration phase. Here, I refine and improve the concepts based on feedback, repeating the process until achieving a highly polished outcome.

"Think through making." I encourage young designers to actively use their hands and engage in creating as a way of thinking. Building models, sketching, and prototyping can lead to insights that abstract thinking alone might not reveal. This hands-on approach can accelerate learning and lead to more innovative solutions.

The most crucial skill for a designer is the ability to remain curious about the real world and to observe it keenly. This skill is foundational because it allows designers to draw unlimited inspiration from their surroundings. As our professional landscape evolves, maintaining this curiosity and observational ability will enable designers to adapt and innovate continually.

With over eight years of rich experience in the design industry, I am a seasoned professional with a track record of significant achievements. Throughout my career, I have had the honor of collaborating with prestigious organizations across various sectors, including Bosch, Collective Future, and Stanford Healthcare Innovation Lab. These collaborations have allowed me to contribute significantly to groundbreaking projects, either as a key team member or as the lead designer. One of my standout achievements was my role in developing the first comprehensive L2+ ADAS Design Guideline for Bosch. This pioneering project not only received widespread accolades but also demonstrated substantial business outcomes, influencing multiple real-world applications, including vehicles from the brand Chery. This guideline has also been widely recognized by industry experts for its impact on L2+ ADAS design. My passion extends beyond professional assignments to personal projects, which have earned considerable acclaim. These projects have been recognized with prestigious awards, including a Gold Award at the Indigo Design Awards, multiple Silver Awards at both the Muse and Vega Creative Awards, and Bronze Awards from the International Design Awards and A’ Design Award. Furthermore, I have had the privilege of serving as a distinguished judge at the Interaction Design Award, hosted by the Interaction Design Association (IxDA). In this role, I was responsible for evaluating over 216 project submissions from more than 20 countries, a testament to the global scope of my involvement in the design community. These milestones not only mark my journey but also fuel my ongoing commitment to creating designs that resonate and expand the horizons of creativity and innovation.

Since high school, I've been drawn to the beauty and influence of architectural design on human behavior, which led me to study urban and architecture design at Peking University. However, as my studies progressed, I realized that the digital realm offered broader opportunities to impact society and would become a predominant medium of communication. This realization ignited a deep fascination with the intersection of digital innovation and technological advancement. My journey took an exciting turn when I discovered the field of interaction and product design—a discipline where my natural creativity aligned perfectly with my desire to create products that leverage evolving technologies to shape the world. Eager to refine my skills and expand my expertise, I embarked on various projects, each shaping me into a proficient interaction and product designer. Through these experiences, I have sharpened my design skills and deepened my understanding of design's role as a catalyst for positive societal change, particularly in enhancing respectful communication. Now, as a dedicated professional in intelligent interaction and product design, I utilize my skills to craft meaningful experiences that not only meet users' needs but also make a substantial difference in the world. This path has not only been a career choice but a fulfillment of my deepest aspirations to impact society positively through design.

When designing, my priorities are centered around the logic of decision-making, respect for technology, and the inclusiveness of outcomes. These principles guide me in creating intelligent products that are both reasonable and respectful to all potential users. To achieve these goals, I conduct extensive research and testing with a diverse range of users to gather insights and utilize the expertise of those who develop the technology. This helps me fully understand the workings of the intelligent algorithms in the backend. My ultimate goal transcends creating visually captivating experiences; I aim to evoke a sense of respect, spark innovation, and contribute to a better future for everyone. This approach ensures that the products I design are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also ethically grounded and inclusive, reflecting the values that are most important to the communities they serve.

Nervous and Exciting. As a designer, I often feel a sense of nervousness, a sentiment I believe is shared by many in my field. This nervousness arises from the pressure of making precise decisions and observations that are expected to positively impact the world. Design is fundamentally about venturing into the unknown and navigating a path that could lead to either success or unexpected challenges. This uncertainty heightens my sense of responsibility and encourages a meticulous approach to learning and creating, ensuring that each design decision is made with care and respect. On the flip side, the process of turning abstract ideas into tangible, impactful designs is genuinely thrilling. There's an inherent challenge in this excitement, as every design project introduces a series of unknowns that need to be addressed and understood. By embracing these challenges, I delve into uncharted territories, fully embracing the unpredictability that comes with pioneering innovation. It is within these untapped areas that I often find unexpected opportunities to expand my creativity and push my capabilities to new limits, fueling my passion for design even further.

My background at the intersection of design, technology, and environmental understanding, fortified by my studies in urban and architecture design at Peking University, has shaped me into a holistic designer. This education allowed me to grasp the complexities of the physical world and how to design within it effectively. My professional journey has been enriched by experiences in intelligent mobility, machine learning, and augmented reality, broadening my expertise across multiple disciplines. This diverse knowledge base enables me to transition smoothly from strategic planning to detailed technological implementations, and to collaborate effectively with stakeholders from various fields. Ultimately, I see my role as a designer as a bridge connecting business, technology, and user needs.

My future plans are threefold. Firstly, I intend to continue my work on the L2+ ADAS design guidelines, as more automotive brands adopt this framework. The need for ongoing innovation and technical enhancement in intelligent mobility remains high, and I plan to lead these advancements at Bosch, a leader in automotive technology. Secondly, I am committed to expanding my impact both globally and within my community. Building on past successes, I aim to extend my influence to address broader challenges that cross international borders. This includes pioneering innovative projects, collaborating with international organizations, and participating in global initiatives to foster significant, positive change worldwide. Thirdly, I will continue to develop the "Wel-AI" project, enhancing its capabilities to integrate cutting-edge intelligent technology into everyday user experiences.

To those just starting their careers in design, I advise embracing a 'thinking through making' approach. Engage directly with materials and processes through model-building, sketching, and prototyping. This hands-on method often reveals insights that purely abstract thinking cannot, accelerating the learning process and fostering innovative solutions. By actively creating, young designers can more effectively understand and solve the complex problems that define our world, paving the way for a successful and impactful career in design.

As someone who has navigated the path of design with some success, I would encourage fellow designers be bold in your endeavors and proactive in your engagement with the world of design. The journey of a designer is one of continuous learning and evolution. It involves cultivating your unique style and voice over time. While the process can occasionally feel tedious, the skills and critical thinking abilities you develop are invaluable. Embrace the challenges and sometimes monotonous aspects of the design process as opportunities to refine your craft and sharpen your professional capabilities. Engaging actively with your work and the community around you not only enriches your own experience but also contributes to the vibrancy and diversity of the design field as a whole.

As a morning person, I begin my day early with a routine that merges productivity with personal enrichment. I start by catching up on the latest technology news while enjoying my breakfast, ensuring I stay informed about recent advancements and trends. This habit helps me remain engaged and knowledgeable in my field. After a refreshing shower that helps sharpen my focus, I transition smoothly into work mode. My workday is filled with diverse activities ranging from project management to creative brainstorming sessions.

Keeping up with the latest design trends is crucial for staying relevant and innovative in the competitive field of design. I make it a priority to regularly read industry publications and updates, which helps me stay on top of new developments and ideas. Additionally, I participate in various courses and workshops to deepen my understanding and refine my skills continuously. Importantly, I also contribute to the community by offering courses and leading workshops for colleagues. Teaching is a powerful tool for solidifying my own knowledge and understanding trends more deeply. It also sparks valuable discussions, offering different perspectives and interpretations of the information. This not only enhances my perspective but also enriches the collective knowledge within my professional network. Regarding the importance of design trends, they are significant as they often reflect shifts in technology, culture, and user preferences. However, while it’s essential to be aware of these trends, it’s equally important to critically assess whether they align with the specific needs and contexts of my projects. Ultimately, the goal is to create designs that are both innovative and timeless, balancing current trends with classic principles of good design.

My most significant design endeavor to date is leading the creation of a comprehensive L2+ Advanced Driving Assist System (ADAS) design guideline for Bosch, which marks one of the industry's pioneering efforts in intelligent vehicle technology. L2+ ADAS represents a major advancement in automotive technology, utilizing AI to enable vehicles to autonomously navigate from point to point under driver supervision. In this project, my primary responsibility has been to define the interaction and communication between the vehicle and the driver, ensuring that every journey is safe, efficient, and enjoyable. A key aspect of our design process was conducting complex high-fidelity eye-tracking simulation tests. These tests helped us develop a new mental model and interaction process tailored to enhance user experience and safety. The guidelines we developed are now being implemented in real-world applications, starting with vehicles from the Chery brand, with plans to expand to other brands. Already, thousands of drivers are experiencing the benefits of these innovations, and the impact is expected to increase significantly. After more than 20 months of dedicated work alongside my team, I take immense pride in this project. It's incredibly fulfilling to know that our efforts are improving safety and enhancing the driving experience for countless individuals. This project not only highlights my capabilities as a leader and innovator in design but also underscores my commitment to advancing automotive safety and technology.

I began my academic journey in urban and architectural design at Peking University, and later pursued further education in the United States. I earned a Master's degree in Media Design Practice from the ArtCenter College of Design, which set the stage for a fulfilling career with leading global entities, including Stanford's Innovation Lab, Collective Future, and Bosch. At Bosch, in the realm of mobility, I significantly contributed to the creation of the L2+ Advanced Driving Assist System (ADAS) design guidelines—a pioneering effort in the industry. My leadership in this project was pivotal to Bosch's strategy in the pre-installed ADAS market, which achieved a valuation of several billion dollars in China by 2022. My designs have markedly improved safety and user satisfaction in vehicles equipped with this system, benefiting thousands of Chery customers and counting. My role was critical in driving the evolution and enhancement of Bosch's product offerings in this sector. I was also instrumental in the development and launch of the Smart Life platform. This initiative not only achieved widespread user adoption but also played a crucial role in the success of the lidar scanning products. My efforts here significantly enhanced Bosch's market standing and broadened its influence, largely due to the success of the Smart Life products. These experiences have not only showcased my capability to make substantial contributions but have also deepened my understanding of the industry's intricate and evolving nature. I am eager to leverage my expertise to drive innovation and contribute to significant projects that will influence the future of design and technology.

From a young age, I've been profoundly interested in design and technology. This interest spurred me to study urban and architectural design at university, focusing on the interaction between humans and their environments. However, as technology evolved, my fascination shifted towards the digital landscape and its endless possibilities. This shift fueled my desire to use my creative talents to develop solutions that benefit society. Driven by a commitment to use design and technology for social good, I have dedicated myself to creating impactful and meaningful experiences that enhance people’s lives. This dedication has guided my professional path, motivating me to find innovative ways to apply design principles in ways that positively affect society.

My design ambitions are deeply rooted in creating intelligent products and enhancing communication. I am committed to the principle that design and technology should be respectful and accessible to all, irrespective of their abilities or backgrounds. By concentrating on intelligent solutions, my goal is to empower individuals, ensuring that everyone can meaningfully interact with products and services. Moreover, I view intelligent product design as a crucial medium for societal communication. Design holds the tremendous potential to shape perceptions, dismantle barriers, and drive positive societal changes. Through my efforts, I aim to tackle technology challenges and devise solutions that leave a significant and enduring impact on the development of the intelligent product for the human being.

Several factors are pivotal in determining the excellence of a design. Among these, empathy is paramount for me. Understanding the purpose and the audience for whom the design is intended is essential. A design that exhibits deep empathy for its users, along with a robust understanding of the technology it leverages, reflects the designer's passion and dedication. Furthermore, attention to detail is critical in assessing the quality of a design. The careful consideration of every element, from the broad composition to the minutest details, significantly enhances a design's excellence. It's the thoughtful execution and sharp attention to detail that contribute to the cohesiveness and refinement of the final design solution.

The value of good design lies in its ability to redefine the boundaries of emerging technologies, particularly in the realm of intelligent products. When the functionalities and potential of a new technology are not widely understood, well-crafted design can showcase the best possibilities and spark the imagination regarding how the technology can benefit humanity. This, in turn, encourages adoption and emulation, setting a standard that propels industries and societies toward beneficial advancements. Investing in good design is crucial as it not only promotes innovation but also directs the development of technology in ways that positively impact society.

My most accomplished design to date is Wel AI, a personal AI email assistant that utilizes advanced large language model (LLM) technology. This design has garnered international recognition, earning a Gold Award at the Indigo Design Awards, Silver Awards at both the Muse and Vega Awards, and a Bronze A’Design Award. These accolades not only underscore the excellence of the design but also validate the innovative approach and thoughtfulness behind Wel AI. What sets Wel AI apart is its dynamic capability to adapt and evolve with its users, illustrating the expansive potential of future AI products. The journey of Wel AI, from an early concept developed before the enabling technology was fully mature, to a sophisticated product with comprehensive technological integration, has been profoundly fulfilling. It is exhilarating to witness how Wel AI has progressed and how it continues to influence the AI product landscape.