After graduating from Boston University with a degree in Computer Science, I began my career in quality assurance, testing complex and often clunky applications. It didn’t take long to realize that the real problem wasn’t just code errors; it was poor user experience. That realization sparked a lifelong dedication to designing intuitive, elegant systems that make technology feel human.
Guided by relentless curiosity and hands-on practice, I built my expertise from the ground up, much like a lotus rising from the mud, transforming challenges into lasting impact. Early clients recognized my ability to simplify complexity and began trusting me with their most challenging projects. That mindset led me to establish Dao Design, where for more than 30 years I have led UX and product design initiatives for Fortune 500 companies and fast-growing startups My portfolio includes 24 years partnering with Dell/EMC Technologies, 15 years with Fidelity Investments, and a decade designing for NetBrain Technologies. These long-term relationships reflect trust, consistency, and measurable impact.
Across generative AI, finance, technology, advertising, healthcare, education, travel and hospitality, and retail, my goal has always been the same: to build products that empower users while supporting business goals. I have designed enterprise search platforms that supported IPO success, including Northern Light’s “Custom Search Folders,” a major UX differentiator later acquired by Divine, Inc., healthcare suites used in more than 3,000 hospitals, and financial tools that increased advisor efficiency and client satisfaction. My daily toolkit includes Figma, Miro, Adobe Creative Suite, and AI-driven design tools that help accelerate iteration and improve outcomes.
My approach is steady, thoughtful, and grounded in craftsmanship, and I value teams that balance technical precision with creativity and care for the end user.