Product designer.
Information architect.
I’m Sable V. Smith.
I like designing, improving, and organizing digital products.
I am empowered by research, strategy, and principles.
Highlighted case study
Specialties
Design and information architecture
Design
Design systems
There’s nothing more satisfying than a well-organized and thorough design system. If I’m building a design system, every reusable element is available and every use case is documented.
Strategy
Whether we are launching an MVP or the final product, having a good plan is the key to success. I work with engineers and leadership to tactically build features, based on optimization.
Design sprints
I am quite accustomed to working within design sprints. If we need to overhaul a feature in a short amount of time, I utilize workshops and timelines to get high-quality products launched fast.
iOS app and web design
My favorite thing to do is design iPhone applications, so I am very familiar with Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines. If I’m not designing an app, you can catch me updating a website.
Information architecture
Users, context, and content
The foundation of information architecture is understanding these three key factors. I always take the time to establish a solid foundation of information as it relates to the user and the business.
Schemes and structures
Leave the classifications and arrangements up to me. I take unruly tasks, concepts, and information and make them easy and enjoyable.
Labeling
Words have different meanings for people and systems. I ensure labels are consistently used and make sense to everyone.
Navigation and search
I’m sure your users are looking at information or viewing search results. Let’s be sure to show them what they need, when they need it.
“I approach digital products with design thinking and data.” -SVS
Empathize
1
Starting with user research allows the team to walk a mile in the user’s shoes.
Define
2
Now that we can relate to the user, let’s define and prioritize their problems.
Ideate
3
When it comes to ideation, I take smart risks and see no limits.
Prototype
4
Time to hop into figma (or a notepad) to start bringing solutions to life.
Test
5
User feedback at this stage will allow us to confirm and improve the product even further.
Implement
6
It’s decomp day, so I come ready with perfect pixels and annotations.
Principles
Guiding heuristics
Consistency and standards
Maintaining consistent words and actions allows the user to easily use the product and know what to expect. Design systems and documentation are important to a cohesive experience.
User control and freedom
Sometimes users click buttons just to see what would happen. Giving the user the freedom to explore and the ability to undo actions will build confidence.
Error prevention
The best way to account for errors is to prevent them, so I define all the use cases. However, all errors aren’t preventable. Providing information, recovery tips, and help can get the user out of a sticky situation.
Minimalist design
Working with cluttered software is just as tough as working on a cluttered desk. I remove unnecessary and distracting elements to allow the user to focus on the task.
Replicate the real world
Talking to a friend in person should feel the same online. Apple does this really well with Facetime. Using the same words, phrases, and concepts provides a more natural and logical experience.
Featured Work
iOS app design for the major canna-tech company based in Irvine, California.