Getting to know Leo Smith

My approach to UX research and redesign is driven by patience, curiosity, and critical problem-solving. I don't believe in blindly following a methodology just to complete steps.

I'm interested in why users experience friction, confusion, stress, or exclusion when using a system.

Before redesigning, I try to understand the context around the problem through research, audits, stakeholder input, accessibility standards, user feedback, and relevant theory. This helps me avoid surface-level solutions and focus on changes that are practical, usable, and grounded in evidence. I use methods as tools to understand the problem more clearly, challenge assumptions, and decide what kind of evidence is actually needed to efficiently satisfy the needs of users.

My design process is user-centered, but also realistic. I care about improving experiences for users, while considering what can be feasibly built, maintained, or handed over to others. Across my projects, this has meant turning research into design systems, prototypes, recommendations, and implemented improvements.

My journey and passion for UX

UX suits how I think: understand the person, question the assumption, research the context, then design the clearest practical solution.

My degree has taught me to apply UX thinking across many areas, including:

  • Data visualzation
  • Prototyping
  • Web design
  • Dashboards
  • Motion design
  • UX Research

UX has made me more confident in my ability to learn quickly, adapt, and solve problems through research and iteration.

My unique approach to UX research and redesign

I focus on understanding why users experience friction, confusion, stress, or exclusion, then turn those insights into clearer, more usable designs.

Across my projects, I have used:

  • Interviews
  • Surveys
  • UX audits
  • Competitive benchmarking
  • Testing
  • Accessibility standards
  • Psychological frameworks
  • Stakeholder feedback

-to guide redesign decisions.

I adapt quickly, learn unfamiliar tools, and use evidence to guide each redesign..

Impact and opportunities in UX

I want to make important digital services feel easier, clearer, and less stressful to use. I focus on practical UX solutions that reduce friction without ignoring real-world constraints.

I am looking for opportunities in UX design, UX research, service design, accessibility, and junior or placement roles.