Hi, I’m Nelson! I design user experiences with creativity, empathy, and the right amount of charm wit.

Work Projects

HYATT HOTELS
DECEMBER 2024

U X / U I

Titan MVP: Designing a Scalable & Intuitive UI for Hyatt’s Authoring Tool

Discover how I redesigned App-Atlas into Titan, a scalable, user-centered tool that simplifies property data management for over 1,400 Hyatt properties.

About Moi

From Hospitality to Human-Centered Design: A Journey of Creativity and Empathy

I’m a Product Designer with a background in hospitality, which has shaped my user-centered approach and commitment to creating inclusive, impactful designs. My career path led me to UX through an immersive design course, where I honed the skills to thrive in this dynamic field.

At the heart of my work is a belief in growth—both as a designer and as a mentor. I approach each project with curiosity, continuously learning about emerging design trends and technologies like artificial intelligence to keep my craft relevant and innovative. I also take pride in guiding new designers, fostering their growth while gaining fresh perspectives that enrich my own process.

In my day-to-day, I apply design thinking to every challenge—iterating, seeking feedback, and solving complex problems collaboratively. I thrive on simplifying intricate systems, working across disciplines, and building scalable solutions that make a tangible difference.

Let’s connect! I’d love to chat about design, collaboration, or the next big idea.

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

  • Empathy is at the core of my design process. I believe that truly understanding user needs is the foundation of impactful design. This involves going beyond the surface to uncover what users value, the challenges they face, and how design can make their lives easier. Whether conducting user interviews, usability testing, or creating personas, I strive to see the world through their eyes. By doing so, I design experiences that resonate emotionally while solving practical problems.

  • Designing with simplicity doesn’t mean removing complexity—it means organizing it thoughtfully. I focus on creating interfaces that are intuitive and easy to navigate, regardless of a user’s technical expertise. Simplifying workflows, reducing cognitive load, and presenting information hierarchically allows users to accomplish their tasks efficiently and with confidence. My goal is to strip away the unnecessary and make the essential feel effortless.

  • I view product design as a team sport where the best results come from diverse perspectives. By partnering with product managers, engineers, researchers, and other stakeholders, I ensure that design aligns with technical feasibility and business goals. Collaboration isn’t just about working together—it’s about creating an environment where ideas flow freely, feedback is welcomed, and everyone feels invested in the outcome. This approach fosters trust, innovation, and meaningful solutions.

  • Mentorship isn’t just about teaching—it’s about mutual growth. I enjoy guiding new designers as they transition into the field, sharing my experiences and helping them navigate challenges. At the same time, I learn from their fresh perspectives and ideas, which often inspire me to see design problems in new ways. By fostering creativity and confidence in others, I contribute to a culture of learning and collaboration that elevates the entire team.

  • The design field is constantly evolving, and I embrace this as an opportunity for growth. From staying updated on emerging trends like AI and accessibility innovations to refining my skills with new tools, I view continuous learning as a vital part of my process. This mindset keeps my work relevant and allows me to bring fresh ideas to the table. I thrive on experimenting with new techniques and technologies that push the boundaries of what design can achieve.

WHAT MY PEERS HAVE TO SAY

  • “It has been an absolute privilege to work with Nelson Medina. Nelson has an uncanny ability to distill multifaceted challenges into intuitive, user-centric solutions, elevating both our brand and the digital experiences we deliver to our users.

    A shining example of Nelson’s impact is his work on the Property Data Management System. In this project, he seamlessly combined his creativity and strategic thinking to design a scalable system that optimized data workflows while prioritizing ease of use. His meticulous attention to detail ensured the solution was not only functional but delightful for stakeholders across multiple teams. Nelson’s ability to balance user needs with business goals was instrumental in the project’s success, driving measurable improvements in efficiency and satisfaction.

    Nelson’s expertise goes beyond his design skills; he is an outstanding collaborator and communicator. His infectious positivity and proactive approach consistently brought out the best in cross-functional teams. Whether synthesizing user research, iterating on complex feedback, or facilitating discussions with stakeholders, Nelson’s leadership and poise ensured projects moved forward with clarity and alignment.

    He is, without a doubt, a rising star in the design community. Nelson combines mastery in design with a rare ability to foster trust and enthusiasm in those he works with, making him an invaluable asset to any organization. I am confident he will continue to make a meaningful impact in the next chapter of his career.”

  • “I've had the pleasure of working with Nelson for the past 1.5 years at Hyatt. The first thing that comes to mind is his customer-centric mindset. He takes the initiative to schedule workshops with customers, uncovering invaluable insights that guide his design decisions. By engaging directly with end users, Nelson ensures the designs not only meet their needs but also exceed their expectations.

    I've worked with various designers in my career and when it comes to Designer discovery, Nelson is one of the best. Whether diving into user research, exploring new tools, or brainstorming creative solutions, he leads with curiosity and innovation. His prototyping sessions are well-planned, keeping the team aligned and moving forward efficiently.

    Nelson’s combination of customer focus and collaborative spirit makes him an asset to any team. I’m confident he will continue to make a significant impact within our team and wherever his career takes him.”

  • “Nelson is an exceptional digital product designer! He consistently brings curiosity and enthusiasm to every task, always asking critical questions that deepen all participants' understanding and drive better project outcomes. His active engagement in weekly calls and syncs ensures seamless collaboration and keeps our hybrid team engaged. Nelson also brings a unique perspective to his work, drawing from his diverse experience in the hospitality industry to design solutions that are both innovative and user-centered. Beyond his professional acumen, Nelson's sense of humor adds a continual refreshing and positive energy to every interaction. His dedication, insight, and personality will truly elevate any team his is a part of.”