Introducing Ask twig+fish
I have had the pleasure of being mentored by some of the finest UX professionals over the past 25 years. I love that so many of them have become family to me. “Pay it forward” has always been a big philosophy of life that my parents shared with me and my siblings. Over my 16-year tenure at Bentley University, I have enjoyed the great fortune of numerous fabulous students coming through my class and the Human Factors and Information Design Program. I even get to work with a fine product of that program on many fun projects, and am so glad our paths crossed (Zarla!). There have always been some students who stay in touch — and ask questions that challenge my viewpoints on research, our field, and my philosophies in general. Sharing information has been one of the best by-products of being a Bentley faculty member.
Just recently, I had a Bentley Alum write me on an interesting quandary he had found himself in — and started his email to me wishing there was a “Dear Meena” column. A “Dear Meena” column? I had to smile, but then, on Zarla’s push — I decided “um, sure.” I am happy to share whatever I can — but be careful — you might not like the response!
Given that my illustrious colleague Zarla has many fine answers to tough questions too, and sometimes much more eloquently presented than mine, we decided on a “Dear twig+fish” column.
So — here it is!
Here are the rules.
This is a sounding board.
This is not legal advice. We will never know every detail about you, your communication style, your knowledge base, your work place, your domain, your colleagues, your counterparts. And, you all know how twig+fish have opinions. We don’t expect you to conduct yourselves in the exact same manner we do. And that can make a difference to the outcome!
Let’s make this a conversation. Perhaps we can throw in how we might approach a situation when it comes to research, or handling a client that doesn’t see value. Or, what resources we tap into when we ourselves are unsure of a situation. We are always facing something new, and sometimes, it does help to just get a thumbs up or sideways on your proposed approach to handling that something.
What is fair game?
Well, really — anything. I have had students and professionals talk to me about research, client relationships, career paths, work-life balance, new ideas, electronic devices and their kids, and recipes for new food or mixed drinks. All of the above apply! Why not!
And lastly — everyone remains anonymous. Just to be fair to respecting people, and their individual situations. Respect first, always. If you want to send us your questions on Twitter, then just keep in mind it will not be so anonymous (@meena_ko #asktwigandfish).
