I'm Ash Cieplensky,
it's nice to meet you
TL;DR:
I'm a multidisciplinary product designer based in Pittsburgh, PA specializing in user experience and user interface design.
Currently working as a UX designer at an AI-driven manufacturing company, I am often seen "wearing many hats". You'll find me staging mockups for usability testing one day and mentoring an intern during a collaborative session the next.
My journey into design:
My interest in user experience and product design space started while I was pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Central Florida. I’ve always been curious about human behavior—what makes us think, feel, and act the way we do.
I learned about UX design during my Intro to Human Factors course. It had never occurred to me that there was such a strong link between psychology and design. My interest in UX design deepened as I continued to explore the human factors space, realizing that design could be a powerful tool to address human needs in innovative ways.
Before transitioning to design, I worked as a research assistant in a mental health lab at my university, where I honed my skills in data analysis, empathized with participants, and identified areas for further investigation. I didn't know it at the time, but those experiences in the mental health lab laid the foundation perfectly for my eventual pivot into the world of design.
Things that bring me joy:
Empathize deeply.
Design thoughtfully.
Create impact.
Empathize deeply.
Design thoughtfully.
Create impact.
Empathize deeply.
My Design Philosophy
Empathize
Deeply
Building empathy is a core aspect of my design approach. To craft truly impactful experiences, I first focus on understanding users deeply—their motivations, challenges, and preferences. This level of empathy is essential for creating designs that are not only functional but also accessible, scalable, and inclusive. By prioritizing users’ needs and perspectives, I ensure that the solutions we develop resonate more deeply and effectively with them, leading to a more meaningful and successful outcome.
Design
Thoughtfully
Designing thoughtfully is central to my process because it ensures that every design decision is intentional and user-centered. By carefully considering the needs, context, and experiences of users, I create solutions that are not only functional but also meaningful. This approach helps avoid superficial fixes and fosters deeper engagement, making the final product more effective and resonant. Thoughtful design prioritizes quality and user impact, ultimately leading to more successful and satisfying outcomes.
Create
Impact
There is an art and science to creating impactful design, and when done correctly, it should drive meaningful results for both the business and it's users. A well-designed user experience not only enhances user satisfaction but also supports business goals by improving conversions, brand loyalty, and overall effectiveness. By focusing on impactful design solutions, we ensure that every interaction adds value, aligns with strategic objectives, and contributes to a more successful and sustainable outcome.
