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Sometimes You’re The Spark
Sometimes people aren’t as into it as you are. I’m enamored with artwork — with the mix of arts, deep passion, and creativity. It fuels my day. When I get to collaborate with someone who’s just as into it, that energy is unmatched. There’s a spark, a rhythm, a kind of beautiful intensity that carries you both forward. In product design, in art, in music — that shared flow creates magic. I love that feeling of creative electricity — but I’ve learned it’s not the only kind of c
Nicole Brennan
Nov 111 min read


What If We Measured Success Differently?
A smiling low vision youth engaging with a digital kiosk in a library, with large text and simple interface on screen. What if we...
Nicole Brennan
Jul 312 min read
Mutual Care, Side Quests, and Doctor’s Orders
This weekend I mowed my neighbor’s lawn. She’s someone who’s spent 30 years as a public school teacher, grew up on a farm, and doesn’t...
Nicole Brennan
Jul 211 min read


Designing for People on Their Worst Day: Why Empathy and Resilience Matter in Public Service UX
Upset African American man with hand covering face, sitting in front of a computer If you want to help people, design something that...
Nicole Brennan
Jul 182 min read


Why I'm Starting This Blog
I’ve spent two decades designing products that are meant to work for everyone—and I mean everyone. That includes people with...
Nicole Brennan
Jul 101 min read
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