Do not index
Do not index
For context: I've been at this small company for 1.5 years, trying to get design a seat at the (decision-making) table. It's been an uphill battle, they're stuck in their old ways.
The breaking point? Their complete disinterest in accessibility, despite all my data and explanations. I was ready to leave before they got hit with an ADA lawsuit.
But after Wednesday, I'm just looking for stability. Even though I'm back to basics, teaching my PM about opportunity trees - I'm worried. How can I feel secure here when stakeholders can't see design's value because of their poor product development practices?
The frustrating part is, with the economy being what it is, I probably need to stick around. And I bet I'm not the only designer dealing with this kind of situation.
Is it worth advocating for design in a non design-driven company?
I've been there. Sometimes it's not worth the constant battle, honestly.
The biggest lesson I learned was how to emotionally detach from my 9-5. Because no matter how passionate I was or how solid my arguments were, some C-level execs was very resistant to change.
Some companies are too big to fail and life is too short. I'd rather be somewhere my work makes a real difference and people actually value what I bring to the table.
The market is shit right now, but in an ideal world, you'd be somewhere focusing on growing your skills instead of playing office politics all day.
Until then? Protect your peace. Not every hill is worth dying on.
That being said, if you still want to give it another shot, here’s how I build UX culture in a company that doesn’t believe in UX:
Want to learn more about UX Management?
Check out UX Management Playbook — made for first-time managers building healthier and happier design teams.