Bridging the gap between what is and what should be.
I'm a trans-disciplinary design researcher and strategist, with experience in strategic communication and systems thinking. Drawing on my background in design, psychology, and the sciences, I excel at addressing complex challenges rooted in interconnected systems, whether it’s reimagining transportation infrastructure or revitalizing endangered language education systems.
With a Master of Design, a Certificate in Public Management, and an interdisciplinary bachelor’s degree from Cornell University, my strengths lie in translating complex concepts to strategic visual artifacts and connecting disparate disciplines to generate unconventional insights. I apply keen writing skills and analytical acuity to create elegant solutions that respect people's attention (a limited resource in our current age), while also maintaining a systems-level perspective.
Translating human values into desirable/feasible/viable solutions is both a weighty responsibility and an exciting endeavor. I'm looking forward to applying my trans-disciplinary approach to the complex systemic challenges of our time.
English vocabulary is weirdly hyperspecific. This video essay explains why.
How can designers actually make sense of complex problems through synthesis?
You’re a film editor. How do you know when to cut?
A newlywed couple is suddenly compelled to hold up a McDonald’s in the middle of the night. What happens next?
Nigencia James, MBA M.Des
UX Researcher, Amazon Web Services
“I had the pleasure of working alongside Isaac on a challenging design project for our client, The Space Elevator Company. Throughout the project, he regularly demonstrated a deep understanding and application of the core values of the design process, embracing iterative development and incorporating any feedback to improve our deliverables. He was also a reliable and supportive partner, always willing to lend a hand and offer constructive feedback. His collaborative spirit and positive attitude made him an absolute pleasure to work with, and I am confident that he would be a valuable asset to any team."