Chad Syme

As principle designer, I was responsible for creating and implementing a consistent brand identity across multiple teams in Microsoft’s Services IT Enterprise Architecture and Planning Group. I created new document templates to simplify and better communicate complex visual and textual data; simplified and standardized the branded visual treatment of internal and external communications to reflect a structured and focused organization; incorporated the group’s visual identity into new and existing collateral; developed new visual standards and guidelines; branded and developed visual identity guidelines for the internal service group “Mauna Kea”; and served as UI and web designer on the Mauna Kea extranet site and interactive crowdsourcing game.

As a UI and UX designer on Surface, Microsoft’s multi-touch computing platform, I made visual and UI improvements to various apps for the pilot release. Thereafter, I was designated the lead UI and UX designer on the Concierge app, where I worked closely with the interaction design team to develop design solutions for new interaction and improve on existing visual and UI designs. I was also responsible for analyzing user research to conceive and create more intuitive designs that enabled the desired interaction; producing designs that were consistent with the established visual language of Surface; and creating final assets for RTM (release to manufacture)

After completing work on the Microsoft Surface apps, I was asked to join the Project Eleven team, which was tasked with developing three multi-touch apps for Windows 7. I participated in early UX design discussions for the apps and conceived the primary feature of the Microsoft Surface Collage app, which allows users to save a collage of photos as their desktop. My focus remained on the photo application and included: designing comprehensive visual specs optimized to preserve interaction design and ensure a consistent UX across all multi-touch devices; developing the visual treatment of the application; and the creation of final assets.

KEXP is a Seattle-based non-profit FM broadcast and global internet radio station. My design services for the station include sixteen limited edition graphic apparel designs, which are available exclusively as premium gifts to donors during the triannual fund raising drives. Among these widely-recognized designs is the popular “computer headphones t-shirt.” Additional services include print design, web design and photography of in-studio and live remote broadcasts of exclusive musical performances in Seattle and around the country.

I was the founder of Zipper Design, a design studio specializing in branding and brand development. Additional services included print and package design, informational and ecommerce web design, illustration and photography. I provided design and consulting services to a diverse clientele, from online retailers to international non-profit organizations. My client base was built entirely though client referrals and repeat business.

The John Report with Bob was half hour sketch comedy television show starring two of the former members of Almost Live! produced and aired by Seattle CBS affiliate KIRO TV. I served as Art Director during the show’s only season, creating the identity of the show and designing the unique and versatile studio set built atop a large rotating stage floor that easily expanded out for larger sets. As one of only five people on staff producing the show, I was also responsible for the design and construction of multiple sets and props for each episode, set dressing, scouting locations, costume design and creating on-air and post production graphics.