Today, as technology and design intertwine more than ever, professionals from diverse backgrounds find unique avenues in the tech industry. This cross-pollination of skills and experiences is not just enriching the tech sector; it’s shaping it anew. From architects to artists, a new wave of talent brings fresh perspectives to technology, blending aesthetics with functionality and propelling the boundaries of what’s possible.
Bridging Disciplines: Fanyi Pan’s Story
Among these pioneers is Fanyi Pan, whose career exemplifies creativity and tech acumen. Transitioning away from her early career in architectural design, she has adeptly navigated her way into tech, crypto, and finance, emerging as a significant figure in Interaction Design, UI/UX Design, and AR/VR Artistry.
“The shift from architecture to tech was intuitive but demanding. It pushed me to re-envision design through a digital lens,” Pan reflects. Her architectural design prowess, particularly in spatial understanding and structural aesthetics, has profoundly influenced her digital design approach. Such an evolution mirrors a broader industry movement where professionals from other specialties are increasingly venturing into tech. In Pan’s case, she began her career working as an architectural designer, developing schematic designs, and 3D models, and outlining construction and project phases – techniques that now lend themselves to her UI/UX designs. This career progression, from shaping physical spaces to sculpting digital experiences, signifies a notable shift in Pan’s professional narrative.
Innovative Design at the Forefront
Innovation lies at the core of Pan’s work ethos. Working at Satori Labs, she leads the development of groundbreaking cryptocurrency products. Her design process, methodical research process, and captivating visual style set her projects apart. Pan views each project as an opportunity to stretch the boundaries of design. Her acclaimed project, “Sweetpaw,” an AR application for diabetes management, is a prime example of this ethos. This app uniquely combines AR technology with healthcare, offering an intuitive and engaging way for users to manage their health.
Another notable project under her belt is Satori.finance, a cutting-edge crypto perpetual trading platform. Fanyi played a pivotal role in developing its UI/UX design. The platform, which facilitates crypto trading on various blockchains like Polygon zkEVM, zkSync, Linea, Scroll, and Base, recently achieved a significant milestone by hitting $35 million USD in daily trading volume. Fanyi’s contribution was crucial in designing the product, creating a user-friendly UX for the trading platform and landing page, and preparing marketing assets to enhance user engagement.
Pan’s focus on Extended Reality (XR) has led her to develop interactive 3D videos, NFTs, and other designs using advanced tools like Unreal Engine, Unity, and Blender. These projects highlight her skill in blending art and technology, a testament to her unique position in the industry. Her work marries aesthetics with functionality–an exceptional example of UX design, an emerging field where designers like Pan leverage visuals and layouts to affect user perceptions.
Sweetpaw: A Notable Achievement
Among Fanyi Pan’s diverse portfolio, “Sweetpaw” stands out as a remarkable achievement, showcasing her innovative prowess. This project, developed during her graduate studies at NYU, is an AR application tailored for diabetes management. “Sweetpaw” exemplifies the seamless integration of AR technology with healthcare, providing users with an intuitive and engaging tool for health management.
The significance of “Sweetpaw” was further highlighted when it represented NYU at the Microsoft Expo 2020. This recognition not only underscored the project’s impact but also Pan’s exceptional ability to blend technology and design in meaningful and impactful ways.
A Distinctive Voice in Tech
“My architectural background gives me a different approach to digital design. I see patterns and structures differently,” Pan explains. As a highly technical field, Pan’s architectural background carries with it a touch of mathematical precision. This unique perspective has been pivotal in her career, making her stand out in a competitive field.
Pan’s perspectives on technological advancements also reflect her deep understanding of both architecture and digital design. She believes that the future of tech is not just about advanced functionalities but also about creating experiences that resonate with users on a personal level. Her insights on design and technology are shaped by her diverse career and life experiences, and she adds a unique voice to the discourse in the tech industry.
The Future of Design and Technology
As Pan looks to the future, she remains thrilled about the endless possibilities in design and technology. “I’m constantly exploring new ways to merge creativity with functionality. The future of design is limitless,” she enthuses. Her aspirations align with the evolving tech industry, where design plays a crucial role in shaping user experiences.
Pan’s journey from architectural design to the forefront of tech innovation is more than just a career shift; it’s a narrative of adaptation, learning, and transformation. As the tech industry continues to evolve, her story inspires, showcasing the impact of innovative thinking and the convergence of different professional backgrounds in shaping the future of design and technology.
