Interview with Lee Pik Shan

In general, I was driven by a desire to solve problems and create solutions that could improve people’s lives. My reason for becoming a designer is not only because of the passion I have for creativity, innovation, and aesthetics but I also wanted to find a way to make a positive impact on society. I also tend to enjoy the challenges of finding new and better ways of doing things.

As a designer, I create products with a human-centered approach, focusing on solving everyday problems that revolve around the needs and experiences of users. My goal is to design solutions that are both functional and intuitive, enhancing the user's quality of life.
I use both technology and my hands when designing. I typically use industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, and Figma for digital designs and 3D modeling software like SolidWorks and Autodesk Fusion 360. I also use a range of equipment such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and traditional design tools like sketchbooks and pencils for physical prototyping and ideation.

As a designer, I experience a mix of emotions during the design process. The initial idea phase brings excitement and creativity, but roadblocks can cause stress and frustration. A breakthrough or moment of inspiration brings a sense of pleasure and accomplishment. The design journey can be unpredictable, and emotions can vary at different stages.
Seeing my designs come to life and positively impact people's lives is incredibly rewarding and serves as a great source of motivation for me as a designer. Hearing positive feedback from users and knowing that my work has made a difference is also very fulfilling.

Becoming a designer was not an obvious path for me, as I initially envisioned myself pursuing a career as an artist. However, as I began to explore different creative fields and learn about the diverse opportunities within design, I found myself drawn to the problem-solving and practical applications of design work.

Becoming a designer was not an obvious path for me, as I initially envisioned myself pursuing a career as an artist. However, as I began to explore different creative fields and learn about the diverse opportunities within design, I found myself drawn to the problem-solving and practical applications of design work.
Some of the future plans for the design is to improve the tool and explore potential collaborators with industries that may benefit from our product. We are also considering on expanding our market reach and developing additional designs that could complement Exlicon's capabilities.
Being able to make a designer product for myself for enjoyment would be a fantastic opportunity for me to explore new ideas and experiment with different design approaches and materials without feeling pressured to perfect it. It may be inspiring and fulfilling to be able to make an enjoyable product for oneself.

Everyone knows it is important to focus on building a strong foundation of design skills and knowledge, as well as learning from experienced designers and mentors. It is also important to practice and try more to find your own unique style.
In addition, they should get practice on the potential challenges they may face in the industry, such as tight deadlines, difficult clients, limited budget. It is important to develop resilience, perseverance, and a growth mindset to overcome these obstacles.
Moreover, you need to build effective communication and collaboration skills. We always have to communicate with clients, seek feedback, and critique from peers and mentors, which help improve our skill and enhance creativity.
Last, the best advice is always adaptable and continuously learn to stay ahead of the curve, seeking feedback and diverse perspectives to enhance our creativity. It is important to keep up with the latest design trends and technologies and seek out diverse perspectives and experiences.

To become a successful designer, young designers should build a strong foundation of skills and knowledge, understand the user's needs, cultivate a passion for creativity and problem-solving, collaborate with others, embrace failure, and stay current with emerging trends and technologies. Becoming a design legend requires talent, hard work, and a commitment to continuous learning and growth.

My life is simple, I focus on work from morning until night.
I break down complex tasks into smaller and more manageable ones. To avoid distractions and maintain focus on the task at hand, I sometimes take short breaks between tasks and use that time to deal with small, trivial matters.
I find that I am most creative at night. The stillness of night lets me feel relaxed and mentally clear, it allows me to focus on the task at hand and let my creativity flow. Thus, I can always wander and explore new ideas at night.

As a designer, I would say staying up-to-date with the latest design trends and technologies is important, as I may draw ideas from a variety of sources. However, I won’t design products reflecting what’s hip this season. I find inspiration in the everyday problems and challenges that people face in their lives, mainly focusing on problem-solving instead of following trends.

Personally, a good design should meet the needs, preferences, and expectations of its users while being visually pleasing and functional. It should also incorporate unique and innovative features while taking into consideration usability, aesthetics, functionality, and durability.
It must improve the user experience and enhance its functionality while having a positive impact on the environment and promoting sustainability. It should also be able to provide a competitive advantage and drive sales.

After designing the product on a computer, we create prototypes, do testing and send out products to some users for trial. Then, we gather feedback from key opinion leaders to improve user experience and practical applications. After many and many testing, feedback, and improvement, we finalize the products and say “yes”. This process may take around six months.

Exlicon Multi Shape drawing tools is my bigger design work. The reason for designing the Exlicon Multi Shape Drawing Tool is to create an innovative and improved drawing tool that could overcome the limitations of traditional compasses. We were inspired to create a versatile needle-free tool compared to a traditional compass.
Designing the tool presented challenges such as creating a needle-free tool that avoids damage to the drawing surface and ensuring easy attachment of magnetic wings to the base. The development process involved overcoming obstacles such as finding suitable materials, testing magnetic strength, and balancing precision with ease of use, while considering historical and social perspectives, 3D printing technology, and safety and quality standards. Through extensive research, prototyping, and testing, the team created a tool that offers a new and improved way of drawing precise shapes.
I am currently working on Exlicon magnetic pen and it will be launched in the middle of July on KickStarter.

My favourite designer is Philippe Starck. I draw inspiration from Philippe Starck and his innovative and playful approach to design. Studying his work has taught me new techniques and approaches, and continues to inspire my own unique style and approach to design.

I grew up in Hong Kong and now in Hong Kong. When I was a kid, I initially envisioned myself pursuing a career as an artist. However, as I began to explore different creative fields and learn about the diverse opportunities within design, I found myself drawn to the problem-solving and practical applications of design work. Then I studied under the Hong Kong education system.
The culture in Hong Kong is unique, I can draw inspiration from this blend of Eastern and Western cultures, as well as the unique history and traditions, integrated with modern times.
I have introduced positively incremental changes to my life such as incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly products, utilizing technology to simplify tasks and increase productivity. These small changes have made a significant difference in my daily life, improving my overall well-being and productivity.

I am currently a startup founder. All products were created solely by myself, without any collaboration. This approach allowed me to have complete control and autonomy over the design process, resulting in a unique and personal final product. I look forward to people who are creative and full of passion in design.
To me, a good designer incorporates unique and innovative features that create a positive emotional response in users, has a deep understanding of their target audience, and can balance form and function effectively.

Personally, I aim to share my design experience and knowledge with the next generation through some mentorship programs and educational initiatives. I believe that by inspiring and educating young people about design, art, and architecture, we can contribute to creating a better society.
We strive to address social and environmental problems, improve the quality of life for individuals, promote innovation and creativity, and foster cultural understanding and social inclusion. It has the potential to create positive social and environmental impact and contribute to the greater good of society. By being sustainable, I also hope to have a beneficial influence on society and the environment.
Furthermore, we company is concerned about diversity, we aim our product can help in bridging people with different race and culture backgrounds. We believe that our products should be accessible to everyone, without limitations.

I would say the benefit of participating to design awards and competitions is it allows us to receive feedback from experts and potential investors. Moreover, it is a good place for promoting our company idea and products, also allows us to gain networks with other designers and industry professionals.
We feel truly humbled to have received recognition in our work that we have put in. We have achieved so much because of the passion we have in designing and creating our brand.

In general, I was driven by a desire to solve problems and create solutions that could improve people’s lives. My reason for becoming a designer is not only because of the passion I have for creativity, innovation, and aesthetics but I also wanted to find a way to make a positive impact on society. I also tend to enjoy the challenges of finding new and better ways of doing things.

Becoming a designer was something I really wanted to pursue. I was passionate about using my creativity and problem-solving skills to craft visually appealing and functional solutions. Pursuing this career path allowed me to express my artistic talents while making a positive impact on people's lives through design.

As a designer, I create products with a human-centered approach, focusing on solving everyday problems that revolve around the needs and experiences of users. My goal is to design solutions that are both functional and intuitive, enhancing the user's quality of life.

To become a successful designer, young designers should build a strong foundation of skills and knowledge, understand the user's needs, cultivate a passion for creativity and problem-solving, collaborate with others, embrace failure, and stay current with emerging trends and technologies. Becoming a design legend requires talent, hard work, and a commitment to continuous learning and growth.

A good designer creates functional and aesthetically pleasing products that meet users' needs, while a great designer incorporates unique and innovative features that create a positive emotional response in users, has a deep understanding of their target audience, and can balance form and function effectively. Great designers are also adaptable and continuously learning to stay ahead of the curve.

Personally, a good design should meet the needs, preferences, and expectations of its users while being visually pleasing and functional. It should also incorporate unique and innovative features while taking into consideration the usability, aesthetics, functionality, and durability.

A good design must improve the user experience and enhance its functionality while having a positive impact on the environment and promote sustainability. It should also be able to provide a competitive advantage and drive sales. People should invest in good designs as it can lead to increased customer satisfaction, profitability, and push its competitive edge.

As a designer, I want to be able to explore more on making creative and artistic projects. These types of projects would allow me to explore new ideas and experiment with different forms of expression, pushing my boundaries of what is possible within my field. By pursuing more creative and artistic work, I can continue developing my skills, expand their horizons, and find new sources of inspiration and motivation.

Being able to make a designer product for myself for enjoyment would be a fantastic opportunity for me to explore new ideas and experiment with different design approaches and materials without feeling pressured to perfect it. It may be inspiring and fulfilling to be able to make an enjoyable product for oneself.

I don't have a secret formula for design success, but I can say that it's a combination of ability and dedication to continual learning, a deep grasp of the user's demands, and remaining current with evolving developments and technology.

Although I created the product on my own, I draw inspiration from Philippe Starck and his innovative and playful approach to design. Studying his work has taught me new techniques and approaches, and continues to inspire my own unique style and approach to design.

Anything that Philippe Starck designs because of his innovative and whimsical approach to design, which blends with functionality with a unique and playful aesthetic.

A great design, in my opinion, is typically recognized by its capacity to efficiently solve a problem and satisfy the demands of the user, as well as its visual appeal, ingenuity, and creativity. The particular elements that contribute to a great design might vary based on the environment and intended purpose of the design.

To improve as a designer, individuals can learn and stay updated on the latest design trends, practice regularly, seek feedback, collaborate with others, develop a user-centered approach, and embrace failure as a learning opportunity. By taking these steps, designers can enhance their creativity, skills, and effectiveness in the field.

While I chose to pursue a career in design, I have also considered the possibility of becoming a project manager or product manager. These roles require a different skill set than design, but they can be equally rewarding and challenging.

Design is the process of solving problems or needs through creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills, while considering the user's needs and preferences. It involves research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and refinement to create value for the user and society through innovative and effective solutions.

As a designer, I am grateful for the support of my backers, who have helped me reach where I am today. Their investment in my work has not only provided me with the financial resources to bring my ideas to life, but also the motivation and confidence to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the field of design.

Going to a university with great design courses is important for a solid foundation of knowledge, but having a passion for the field and a desire to constantly push boundaries is also essential for becoming a great designer. Combining education, passion, and creativity can lead to a distinctive style that sets designers apart in the industry.

One of the obstacles I faced was having a creative block, which can be discouraging and frustrating. However, I was able to overcome this by taking a break and engaging in other activities, and experimenting with different design techniques and approaches.

I think designers should present their work clearly and concisely, using visual aids to showcase key features, and tailoring their presentation to their audience's needs and preferences. They should effectively communicate the design's value proposition and be prepared to address feedback and concerns while conveying their thought process and decision-making.

I am always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of what is possible within my field. I am excited to continue exploring new ideas and experimenting with different materials and techniques, with the goal of creating more ergonomic and unique stationery products that will meet the needs and preferences of users.

As a designer, my ultimate objective is to build solutions that suit the demands of the user while also being visually beautiful, inventive, and sustainable. By being sustainable, I also hope to have a beneficial influence on society and the environment.

People expect innovative, functional, visually appealing designs that meet user needs and have a positive impact on society from an esteemed designer, along with staying up-to-date with design trends and technologies and approaching projects with creativity and dedication. They may also expect the designer to be a thought-leader in the industry, inspiring and educating others.

Design can create a better society by addressing social and environmental problems, improving the quality of life for individuals, promoting innovation and creativity, and fostering cultural understanding and social inclusion. It has the potential to create positive social and environmental impact and contribute to the greater good of society.

I am currently focused on designing and innovating existing products to improve their functionality, efficiency, and aesthetics. Through collaboration with stakeholders and staying up-to-date with the latest design trends and technologies, I strive to create designs that meet user needs and offer an exceptional user experience.

Although what I have put out was rewarding, none of these have given me the most satisfaction yet. I am still exploring the opportunities that I have to create designs that not only look good but also have a positive impact on people's lives.

Some individuals in the design industry may wish to see greater emphasis on sustainability, diversity, and inclusivity, more collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches to design, and greater investment in emerging technologies and digital tools. The goal is to create a more effective and sustainable design industry that can address the challenges and opportunities of the future.

I can say that the design field is likely to continue to evolve and adapt to changing needs and technologies. This may include greater emphasis on digital and interactive design, increased focus on user-centered design, and continued integration of sustainability and social responsibility into design practices.

It usually takes around a year to finalize the design of the product without the initial drafting and creation.

As a designer, I find inspiration in the everyday problems and challenges that people face in their lives. Whether it's the need for more efficient storage solutions, more comfortable and ergonomic seating, or better ways to organize and manage workspaces, I am always looking for ways to incorporate these issues into my design work.

I usually go by problem solving and human centric design.

I think design and trends can influence each other, but can also operate independently. The relationship between them is complex, with each influencing the other in different ways and under different circumstances.

Technology plays a crucial role in the design process, facilitating ideation, prototyping, testing, and refinement, enhancing product functionality and sustainability, and promoting innovation. It is important to use technology responsibly and ethically and to consider its impact on society and the environment.

My design software and equipment vary depending on the project's requirements, but I typically use industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, and Figma for digital designs and 3D modeling software like SolidWorks and Autodesk Fusion 360. I also use a range of equipment such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and traditional design tools like sketchbooks and pencils for physical prototyping and ideation.

Color, materials, and ambient factors impact the user's emotional and sensory experience in design. By carefully considering these elements, designers can create products and spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, functional, and emotionally resonant with the user.

I enjoy being asked why I designed a particular product because it gives me the opportunity to share the thought process and decision-making that went into its development. It allows me to provide insights into the design considerations, challenges, and solutions that went into creating the product, and to share my passion for design and problem-solving with others.

Encountering a great design or product inspires me with creativity, innovation, and attention to detail. It motivates me to push the boundaries of what is possible and strive for excellence in my own work.

An ideal design partner would share similar values, has complementary skills, and is open to collaboration and communication. I see co-design as a valuable approach to creating designs that meet the needs of all parties involved, foster innovation and inclusivity, and help gain a deeper understanding of the problem being solved.

I am constantly thinking about the end-user and how they will interact with my designs. The people who use my products are the ones who most influence my design decisions, as I am always looking for ways to create products that are intuitive, user-friendly, and address their unique needs and preferences.

Books about Elon Musk have been a great source of inspiration for me as a designer, as they showcase his unique and broad perspective on problem-solving and creating efficient and effective products. Musk's dedication to innovation and his relentless pursuit of excellence have been a driving force in his success, and his approach to design and engineering has revolutionized industries. By reading about Musk's work and philosophy, I have been motivated to think bigger, push the boundaries of what is possible, and to create designs that have a lasting impact on the world.

While I don’t consider myself as a master designer yet, I was able to develop my skills and gain valuable insights into the design process and manufacturing through my education and practical experience. This has allowed me to refine my skills and deepen my understanding of what it takes to create innovative and practical designs.

I'd like to spend a day with either Elon Musk or Philippe Starck.

We are not famous perse, but we feel truly humbled to have received recognition in our work that we have put in. We have achieved so much because of the passion we have in designing and creating our brand.

When it comes to my personal preferences, I tend to gravitate towards a classic color palette of black and white. As for my favorite place, this can vary depending on my mood and what I am looking for. While I enjoy all seasons, I must admit that summer is not my favorite, as I tend to find the heat and humidity to be uncomfortable. Finally, I have a particular affinity for my phone, and I have always been drawn to the design and functionality of Apple products.

I have had my fair share of challenges and setbacks, and one experience that I find amusing in hindsight is my attempt to find a manufacturer and navigating Kickstarter, which ultimately failed several times. While I can now look back on this experience with humor, at the time it was a frustrating and demotivating setback that taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of obstacles.

Seeing my designs come to life and positively impact people's lives is incredibly rewarding and serves as a great source of motivation for me as a designer. Hearing positive feedback from users and knowing that my work has made a difference is also very fulfilling.

Becoming a designer was not an obvious path for me, as I initially envisioned myself pursuing a career as an artist. However, as I began to explore different creative fields and learn about the diverse opportunities within design, I found myself drawn to the problem-solving and practical applications of design work.

In my opinion, it is likely that technological advancements will continue to shape and transform society, and we may see significant developments in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and space exploration in the coming centuries.

I am grateful for the support of those who have backed the Exlicon Multi Shape Drawing Tool and will continue to create innovative designs that meet user needs and make a positive impact on society, so stay tuned for updates!

My company, Ddiin, specializes in problem-solving and human-centric design, focusing on desire, design, innovation, idea, and needs. We believe that our innovative designs can help boost creativity and bring new ideas to life.

Design is the process of solving problems or needs through creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills, while considering the user's needs and preferences. It involves research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and refinement to create value for the user and society through innovative and effective solutions.

As a designer, I create products with a human-centered approach, focusing on solving everyday problems that revolve around the needs and experiences of users. My goal is to design solutions that are both functional and intuitive, enhancing the user's quality of life.

My favorite design is Exlicon Multi Shape Drawing Tool, the first design product that my company launched. The product is beyond that of a traditional compass, without damaging any materials in the process of creation. The idea was to create a versatile and human-centric product that is also inclusive.

Exlicon Multi Shape Drawing Tool is the first product that I designed for my company.

3D printing and CNC machining are the technology I mostly use for prototyping

I find that I am most creative at night. The stillness of night lets me feel relaxed and mentally clear, it allows me to focus on the task at hand and let my creativity flow. Thus, I can always wander and explore new ideas at night.

As a designer, I create products with a human-centered approach, focusing on solving everyday problems that revolve around the needs and experiences of users. My goal is to design solutions that are both functional and intuitive, enhancing the user's quality of life.

As a designer, I experience a mix of emotions during the design process. The initial idea phase brings excitement and creativity, but roadblocks can cause stress and frustration. A breakthrough or moment of inspiration brings a sense of pleasure and accomplishment. The design journey can be unpredictable, and emotions can vary at different stages.

It is complicated. Seeing my ideas come to life brings a sense of pride and accomplishment. While I may feel some nervousness about how the product or project will be received. But overall, the pleasure I feel from the realization of my design outweighs any apprehension.

Personally, to make a design successful, it should meet the needs, preferences, and expectations of its users while being visually pleasing and functional. It should also incorporate unique and innovative features while taking into consideration the usability, aesthetics, functionality, and durability.

In my point of view, whether the design can improve the user experience and enhance its functionality while having a positive impact on the environment and promoting sustainability is considered first. Also, it should also be able to provide a competitive advantage and drive sales.

Designers have a responsibility to create designs that improve user experience, enhance functionality, and promote sustainability. This involves considering the life cycle of the product, using eco-friendly materials, and minimizing waste and energy consumption. Designers should also be aware of the social and cultural implications of their designs and aim to create designs that benefit both the user and the wider community.

In my opinion, it is likely that technological advancements will continue to shape and transform society, the design field is evolving with the integration of technology and a focus on user-centered design. We may see advancements in technology such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology being incorporated into design. The future of design will likely involve continued integration of technology.

The last exhibition was on June 2023 in Hong Kong Smart Design Awards 2023 Showcase in K11 Art Mall.
We will join Permanent Collection at The Henry Ford Museum to showcase my design products later.

I was mostly influenced by daily life activities such as the colors and shapes found in nature, the functionality of everyday objects, or the visual aesthetics of architecture and art. By observing and drawing from the world around me, I was able to create designs that are both beautiful and functional, and that resonate with their intended audience. Moreover, I draw inspiration from Philippe Starck and his innovative and playful approach to design. Studying his work has taught me new techniques and approaches, and continues to inspire my own unique style and approach to design.

I would describe I am exploring making creative and artistic projects. These types of projects would allow me to explore new ideas and experiment with different forms of expression, pushing my boundaries of what is possible within my field. By pursuing more creative and artistic work, I can continue developing my skills, expand their horizons, and find new sources of inspiration and motivation.

I live in Hong Kong. I can draw inspiration from the blend of Eastern and Western cultures, as well as the unique history and traditions, integrated with modern time.
One pro of designing in Hong Kong is the exposure to a diverse range of cultures. This can lead to the development of unique and innovative designs that draw on a variety of sources. On the other hand, a potential con could be the challenge of balancing the demands of stakeholders with different cultural backgrounds and preferences.

As a startup founder, all products were created solely by myself, without any collaboration. This approach allowed me to have complete control and autonomy over the design process, resulting in a unique and personal final product.

Effective communication and collaboration are key to working with a designer. Clearly communicate goals and expectations, provide necessary resources, and prioritize teamwork to create effective designs. In my opinion, it is important to look for someone who incorporates unique and innovative features that create a positive emotional response in users.

Observation, find current problems, conduct research according to the found problems, then start design work. I will make use of 3D printing, CNC machining in prototypes, and testing for the products. Finally, come to the final stage after many times of testing.

I would say that a comfortable chair and work table provide ergonomic space, while a reliable pen and computer are necessary tools for design. An efficient lighting fixture creates a well-lit environment.

My life is simple, I focus on work from morning until night.

As a designer, we have to always be adaptable and continuously learn to stay ahead of the curve, seeking feedback and diverse perspectives to enhance our creativity.

For the positives of being a designer, the main one is the satisfaction of seeing the designs come to life and bring positive impact to users. On the other hand, the pressure of constantly producing high-quality work within a tight deadline under limit budget is a difficult we have to faced.

Good quality is my golden rule in design. Also I aim to build solutions that suit the demands of the user while also being visually beautiful, inventive, and sustainable. By being sustainable, I also hope to have a beneficial influence on society and the environment.

As a designer, creativity and problem-solving skills are crucial for developing unique and effective solutions. These skills allow designers to approach challenges with fresh perspectives and create designs that are both visually appealing and functional.

My design software and equipment vary depending on the project's requirements, but I typically use industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, and Figma for digital designs and 3D modeling software like SolidWorks and Autodesk Fusion 360. I also use a range of equipment such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and traditional design tools like sketchbooks and pencils for physical prototyping and ideation.

I have effective time management that involves setting clear goals and deadlines for each project, breaking down complex tasks into smaller ones and prioritizing tasks based on their importance and urgency. To avoid distractions and maintain focus on the task at hand, I sometimes take short breaks between tasks and use that time to deal with small, trivial matters.

It usually takes around a year from zero to the final product.

The most frequent question I heard is where the design inspiration comes from.

While all of my job experiences have been important, my years of working have developed strong communication skills that allow me to effectively interact with clients. Through regular updates and feedback, I can address concerns and issues to continuously improve my final products. These years of experience have provided a steady foundation for my design business.

Our target customers are not limited to designers and artists since Exlicon has practical applications in various fields such as architecture, engineering, students and drawing beginners.

As a designer, I create products with a human-centered approach, focusing on solving everyday problems that revolve around the needs and experiences of users. My goal is to design solutions that are both functional and intuitive, enhancing the user's quality of life.

I am always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of what is possible within my field. I am excited to continue exploring new ideas and experimenting with different materials and techniques, with the goal of creating more ergonomic and unique stationery products that will meet the needs and preferences of users.

The Exlicon Multi Shape Drawing Tool was created solely by myself, without any collaboration. This approach allowed me to have complete control and autonomy over the design process, resulting in a unique and personal final product.

Some of the works-in-progress for the design is to improve the tool and explore potential collaborators with industries that may benefit from our product. We are also considering expanding our market reach and developing additional designs that could complement Exlicon's capabilities.

People may contact me through email ddiin8@gmail.com

As a designer, collaboration with others is essential for creating successful designs, staying up-to-date with the latest design trends and technologies is important, and working with clients and stakeholders can be challenging but rewarding. Personal creativity and inspiration are also critical for success in design.