Do you need a designer who balances big-picture thinking with practical execution?
I bridge the gap between strategic vision and user-centred design, helping organisations turn ambitious goals into tangible, impactful digital experiences. With a focus on clarity, collaboration, and innovation, I craft compelling product visions and design strategies that deliver measurable results.
Latest thoughts
Judging books by their covers… February 2025
March has rolled in, so I’m a few days behind with my monthly cover design review. I’ve gathered a mixed selection of journals, fiction, and nonfiction publications.
Judging books by their covers… January 2025
It’s been a while since I compiled a selection of publication covers that caught my eye. Now that we’re into 2025, I feel that it might be a good time to restart the habit. My love for cover designs goes back to my college days and years in publishing. I haven’t designed a commercial publication cover for quite a while, and I’d like to change that this year.
How much experience is too much experience?
Some senior roles ask for 6–10 years of experience, yet candidates with double or even triple that often hear, “You have too much experience.” Why?
Design isn’t just about making things look good; it’s about solving the problems no one sees.
In today’s fast-paced world, design often gets reduced to quick fixes and visual polish. However, design should tackle root causes, not just symptoms. By embracing system-level thinking, we can create solutions that are fit for purpose. Solutions that build solid foundations for a better society and planet.
When was the last time you just sat and thought?
In our always-on culture, being ‘busy’ has become normal. It robs us of the space to truly think.
I often hear people say, ‘If only I had time to think things through.’ But I wonder: is it really a lack of time—or is it a lack of willingness?
What business are you really in?
A couple of weeks ago David Hieatt asked “what business are you really in?”
For me, as a designer, I thought this was easy to answer.
I’m a designer, I’m in the business of solving problems.
Reducing
Uncertainty
Creating data-driven experiences: Dereck uses research insights to develop products and services that resonate with your target audience.
Boosting user engagement: Dereck leverages data to improve user experience and keep your customers returning for more.
Delivering
Clarity
Turning vision into reality: Dereck helps you translate your strategic goals into compelling user experiences through compelling product visions.
Impactful digital products: Dereck shapes your product vision into a clear roadmap and helps build the right team to execute that vision.
Adaptable to
Change
Creating Products that Adapt and Thrive: Dereck helps to deliver products that can evolve in an ever-changing market, ensuring long-term value.
Empowering teams: Dereck can help guide your teams through change management and foster a collaborative environment that unlocks their full potential.