Hi Mark, I completely understand where you are coming from. I too have a technical background and a Masters in HCI.
The way that I was able to get into the field is by taking a cross-functional job. My first job was officially called "Usability/Front-End Developer", where I did my share of development but also build prototypes and tested them. It was certainly not a straight IxD job, but it got my foot in the door. >From there, my prototypes were enough to land me a real IxD role where all I did was design. I also think you have an advantage right now with the market being what it is, as many companies are looking for people who can be cross-functional because it saves them money. So if you can code and design you should be golden. I would also suggest being strategic about what types of jobs you apply for. Don't apply for the web design jobs, go ahead and apply for the interaction design position that also requires knowledge of DHTML/AJAX. Finally, even if you do end up getting a job that is not ideal, you could always figure out where improvements are needed, talk to your manager, and get permission to "go beyond your role" so that you can build up your resume. I believe you can find opportunities to design and build up your skills irregardless of your official title :) Good luck! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Posted from the new ixda.org http://www.ixda.org/discuss?post=43689 ________________________________________________________________ Welcome to the Interaction Design Association (IxDA)! To post to this list ....... [email protected] Unsubscribe ................ http://www.ixda.org/unsubscribe List Guidelines ............ http://www.ixda.org/guidelines List Help .................. http://www.ixda.org/help
