How I work
I’ve worked as a sole UX designer in environments where time, data, and resources were limited. My approach is shaped by that reality, not by idealised design processes.
4 lessons I learned as the sole designer in a fast-moving startup:
I didn’t have the luxury of extensive research, perfect data, or endless iteration cycles. What I did have were real users, limited time, and full responsibility for what shipped. These lessons came out of that reality, and still shape how I make decisions under pressure.
Validating early matters more than being right
Waiting for complete certainty is a form of delay. I test assumptions early, learn from real user behaviour, and adjust based on evidence. Not opinions or internal alignment.
Ownership doesn’t stop at design
As the sole designer, there was no one to hand things off to. I took responsibility from problem definition through to what was shipped, ensuring design decisions translated into real impact in production.
Constraints sharpen decision-making
Limited time and resources forced focus on what truly mattered. Not everything needs to be perfect, only the things that create the most value for users and the business.
Making decisions without perfect data is part of the job
In startup environments, inaction is often the most expensive option. I make informed decisions with the information available, and course-correct as new insights emerge.
UX Designer focused on usable, feasible products
Designing with implementation in mind.
Copyright @ 2025 Christiaan Sanmoekmin. This site is built with Framer. Icons by Lucide