Katie is a user experience strategist who writes and speaks on topics related to human-centered design. Originally educated as a theatre director, she brings a unique perspective to digital work. She believes that if brands wish to truly connect with consumers, they must combine emotion and utility, storytelling and technology to fulfill real human needs.
Katie currently heads Design Strategist for Allstate Insurance’s Innovation group, guiding the design of new products and services. Prior to joining Allstate, she was a UX Director at FCB Chicago where she was the UX lead on the 2016 global redesign of JackDaniels.com as well as leading experience design for many other clients such as Cox Communications, Meow Mix, and Toyota Financial Services.
Katie is an experienced presenter who has spoken on UX topics internationally at design industry events such as SXSW Interactive, IxDA Interaction, 4A’s, Amuse and PUSH. She is currently working with Rosenfeld Media on a book that explores researched-based design techniques that work with ingrained human survival instincts entitled Life & Death Design, set for release in late 2021.
Stress changes the human brain, enhancing some abilities and degrading others. In some of the most dangerous industries, creators of life-saving products have discovered how to leverage brain science and smart design to harness good instincts while reducing panic and aggression. They use human-centered design to help their users land airplanes, avoid car crashes, resuscitate heart attack victims, and escape burning buildings. Apply their techniques to your work in any field to create clear, intuitive experiences that effectively guide the behavior of your users, no matter their state of mind.