My Ethos: Crafting Innovative Design Experiences with Passion and Expertise

Driven by a desire to create meaningful change through design, I am committed to shaping exceptional user experiences that are intuitive, engaging, and accessible. By acquiring proficiency in both hardware and software design, I am able to facilitate a smooth dialogue between the two domains, ultimately minimizing the friction between them and fostering cohesive user experiences.

My entrepreneurial spirit is at the heart of what sets me apart. Having successfully tackled numerous 0-to-1 projects, I bring invaluable experience and insight to support startups and established enterprises alike. IBy seamlessly merging technical mastery with visionary thinking, unwavering leadership, and persistent determination, I translate your vision into an impactful, tangible reality.

With a strong commitment to openness and clarity, I collaborate closely with clients, sharing regular updates on project developments, emerging industry trends, and potential growth prospects. Throughout our partnership, I consistently assess project outcomes against your objectives to ensure they authentically embody your vision.

All together, a passion for strategizing, problem-solving, and a track record of bringing over 100 products to life, I'm dedicated to not only meeting but exceeding your expectations. Whether you're a startup navigating unique challenges or an established company seeking transformative solutions, I'm ready to seamlessly integrate with your team to deliver exceptional results.

 

For a complete view on the breadth of my expertise and knowledge of technologies, materials
and processes, see my Project Technology List for programs I’ve worked on.

 

Awards

 

My Background

My journey in the world of design began with a strong foundation in graphic art, web design, and a passion for drawing. This early immersion in the creative realm nurtured my appreciation for aesthetics and instilled a keen eye for design. As I honed my skills, I discovered an aptitude for problem-solving and user experience (UX), leading me to explore user research and invent new solutions to enhance digital interactions.

Throughout my career, I've been driven by an innate curiosity to understand the interconnectedness of hardware and software components. This curiosity led me to work within various companies, where I developed a reputation for thinking laterally and introducing innovative ideas to bridge the gap between hardware and software design.

In the fast-paced world of startups, I focused on both hardware and software development, embracing a holistic approach to design. This experience sharpened my ability to communicate effectively with engineers, project managers, and business stakeholders, ensuring that design decisions aligned with the company's goals and objectives.

Working remotely with teams across multiple countries and within the gig economy, I've cultivated strong skills in managing offshore teams and fostering successful collaborations. Based in California, with a presence in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, I've stayed at the heart of tech innovation, bringing a global perspective to my work.

My dedication to design excellence has resulted in numerous accomplishments, including the management of multi-billion-dollar portfolios and the delivery of over 100 technology-focused products to market. I've been honored with notable accolades, such as the prestigious "Best of the Best" Red Dot Award, reflecting my commitment to delivering exceptional results and pushing the boundaries of design.

Throughout my career, I've prioritized clear communication, transparency, and staying informed about industry trends to keep clients well-informed and prepared for emerging opportunities. My adaptability, technical expertise, and strategic insight make me a valuable partner for both startups and established companies seeking innovative solutions to their design challenges.

Ready to bring your vision to life with a dedicated and experienced design professional? Reach out today, and let's embark on an innovative design journey together.


ken.mak@orengadesign.com
(415) 867-3048