I solve hard problems.

I design for complex problem spaces and expert users. I've spent fifteen years connecting business strategy to structural design, focusing on the high-stakes analytical tools and workflows that drive expert decisions.

I turn constraints into a competitive edge. I untangle messy information architecture, streamline workflows, and visualize complex time-series, trends, and analytical data.

Dave Thompson portrait

Practice

Where I add the most value

Design leadership

Hands-on design leadership

I work alongside my team to provide clear direction and ground decisions in business reality. I help elevate and accelerate our most critical work.

End-to-end craft

Product design, end to end

I connect business goals with user needs. I ensure products feel coherent from the strategic roadmap down to the final UI.

Complex domains

Systems thinking for complex products

I thrive in complex problem spaces. I untangle messy details, streamline workflows, and visualize data for insights and action.

Identity

Personal Brand

My personal brand is shaped by numerous testimonials from colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. Their feedback not only informs top skills, but also the "why" (core values) and "how" (personality and style).

WhyHowWhat

Why

Core values

Innovation

I'm driven to explore change and introduce ideas that challenge the status quo. The best design I have done started with exceptionally challenging constraints.

Excellence

I strive for the highest quality and pursue continuous growth in myself, my team, and the products we create. The details that separate good from great are often the ones I care about most.

Collaboration

I love working in multidisciplinary teams. My diverse background — spanning business, engineering and design, is instrumental in building great communication and connection across organizations.

Integrity

I am genuine and transparent. I say what I mean, follow through on all commitments, and give credit wherever it belongs.

Learning

Formal Training

  • University of Victoria

    Engineering Degree

    Distinction

  • Nielsen Norman Group

    Master Certificate in UX

    Average Grade: 98%

  • HFI

    Certified User Experience Analyst

    94% Average Grade

  • Nielsen Norman Group

    Designing for AI Applications

    Grade 100%

  • INSEAD

    Leadership Training

    Distinction

Perspective

Beyond the screen

I run, swim and bike. I love photography. I mentor designers through BestHuman, where I am one of their top-rated mentors with a 4.8-star rating. I am a lifelong learner, always picking up new skills and perspectives.