Interviews with Takuya Saeki

Ever since I was a child, I have always found flyers and posters difficult to understand. For example, the wording was not consistent, or important information was not written. I thought, "I should have done it better this way. I also liked drawing comics and pictures.
After graduating from high school, I studied abroad and tried to become a professional soccer player, but was unsuccessful. After that, when I was thinking about it in agony, I had a cousin who was a designer, and when I heard about it, it sounded interesting. So I became interested and enrolled in a graphic design school to study design.

We are most conscious of the role and purpose required of that design we are creating. Why are we creating the product? What is the reason? What kind of effect are we looking for after the creation? What effect are you looking for after the creation?
Next, who do you want to communicate the product to? In most cases, the target audience will be a group of people of different ages, regions, hobbies, and preferences. In most cases, the product is made for people selected by age, region, interests, tastes, and so on. We create with that communicator in mind. We believe that the wording will be different for adults and for teenagers, and the finished impression must also be different.
Finally, can we explain the content of the production? Can you explain the content of the production? Once the purpose of the production and the intended audience are determined, the direction of the finished product will naturally emerge. If you are able to do so, you will be able to explain the necessity of even the smallest line.

When we actually produce something that we had considered in advance and the production proceeds smoothly due to that consideration, we are still able to proceed in a pleasant and clear minded manner.
On the other hand, if something was left out or overlooked in the study, it is necessary to study it again in order to add that element, and that stage is a difficult one. Therefore, when matters that could not be anticipated during the actual production process occur after the review, it can be a painful process to deal with them.

I kept seeing "good things." At the entrance ceremony of a graphic design school, the principal of the school at that time told us that we should keep looking at beautiful and excellent things. He said, "Keep looking at beautiful and excellent things. I think this means that what you experience and experience will always be your food. Therefore, I try to use and choose things that have excellent design and are beautiful in my daily life.
I also have the ability to verbalize my thoughts. In graphic design production, there are many opportunities to explain the intention and reason for production. I think it is necessary to have the ability to explain in such cases and to smoothly explain the intention behind the choice of expression. Reading is effective for this purpose.

We would like to eventually design everything related to the airline. Starting with the airline's logo, website, smartphone app for reservations, various uniforms, service counters, seats inside passenger aircraft, etc.
It may not be realistic to design everything related to the airline in question, but I am very interested. Even if I don't get the commission, I would like to produce it during my retirement.

Please make a lot of them. By making them, you will learn how difficult it is to make them. Don't be satisfied with just the information on the screen, but actually go there and experience the works, concerts, and trips. There are many things and experiences that you will not understand unless you go to the field. Keep trying. It is difficult to keep going, but your value will increase if you keep going. Don't do nothing at all, but keep going, even if it's just a little bit. Your efforts will definitely pay off.

I'll refrain from answering now.

In the mornings, we see and learn about design and a variety of information, as well as progress with thought-provoking content. In the afternoon, I work on production, meetings, and other tasks that require instantaneous judgment. I try to get plenty of sleep.

I try to keep up with the latest design trends. Or rather, if I am constantly following design information, I naturally know what the current trends are. It would be nice if I could immediately test design trends on a project, but it is frustrating when a project does not match.

I'll refrain from answering now.

It is when there are generally no more hesitations or uncertainties in the production process. When I have a clear understanding of the client's requirements and can see a path to give shape to those requirements, then I can proceed.

This is a management support and sales improvement iPad app for beauty salons in Japan, released in April 2024. The total size of the app was about 100 to 150 screens, and we read the text provided by the client on how the app would be used. Based on the text, we studied the elements on the still blank screens, created wireframes, built a design system, and reflected the design system. It took a total of nine months to complete the project, which was quite a long time, but we were able to complete it successfully. I was also in charge of creating the logo for the service, which was carried out by a total of five people, including a freelance designer. I was also in charge of design direction.

Kashiwa Sato
https://kashiwasato.com/

Yugo Nakamura
https://tha.jp/

I am Japanese and live in Tokyo. I love Tokyo. Shibuya in particular has always had a positive influence on me. I have been visiting Shibuya since I was a high school student, so I think it is that influence. It is also a place that is constantly changing, as it is home to some of the most challenging events and stores in Japan. However, there is a strong sense of order there, and no unmanned conduct or behavior is tolerated.

I'll refrain from answering now.

Since the beginning of this year, I am often asked for tips on how to be independent or freelance, and I try to answer positively.

It was very stimulating to have a third party evaluate my work, which was done from a global perspective. I was also lucky enough to receive a bronze award, so it was good to have my skill level known.

The main content of this application is the various information that the musicians provide. The UI is designed for this purpose, so we were conscious of making it easy to operate while not interfering with the main content.

The entries are independent productions. However, although the actual UI/UX production and development was originally done, it was not made public for one reason or another. That period is about a year and a half. It was filled with the thoughts of the client and other people involved, so we wondered if we could somehow release just the UI. I asked the client and received a response that it would be OK to release it on the Internet, which led to the creation of this work. The production of this work took about one month, since it was so much that we had to add a redesign.

It is a decision made in pursuit of inspiration.

We will consider selling this design if there are businesses that would like it.

Kashiwa Sato
https://kashiwasato.com/

Yugo Nakamura
https://tha.jp/

Internet-related businesses and new business-related businesses.

Adobe Illustrator was used as the main software.

Is it where a white object is superimposed on a white screen?

As the project progressed, the number of contents to be posted increased, so we had to check and add / reduce the overall design for this purpose several times.

Why don't you apply via the website? I was invited to apply, and I was interested, so I did. I thought it was an opportunity to see how my work would be evaluated on a global level.

Ever since I was a child, I have always found flyers and posters difficult to understand. For example, the wording was not consistent, or important information was not written. I thought, "I should have done it better this way. I also liked drawing comics and pictures.
After graduating from high school, I studied abroad and tried to become a professional soccer player, but was unsuccessful. After that, when I was thinking about it in agony, I had a cousin who was a designer, and when I heard about it, it sounded interesting. So I became interested and enrolled in a graphic design school to study design.

I chose to become a designer.

I am a graphic designer. I create UI/UX for advertisements, websites, and smartphone applications. I often create graphic designs related to internet-related businesses and new businesses.

Please make a lot of them. By making them, you will learn how difficult it is to make them. Don't be satisfied with just the information on the screen, but actually go there and experience the works, concerts, and trips. There are many things and experiences that you will not understand unless you go to the field. Keep trying. It is difficult to keep going, but your value will increase if you keep going. Don't do nothing at all, but keep going, even if it's just a little bit. Your efforts will definitely pay off.

I believe that what is produced is used without any explanation from anyone, or that what is described on paper or screen is understood and used. It would be even better if the design is aesthetically pleasing.

I don't think there is anything man-made that is not designed. Just as we seek good taste and satisfaction in food and eating, I think it is only natural that people seek superior design and design in the things they use themselves.

We would like to eventually design everything related to the airline. Starting with the airline's logo, website, smartphone app for reservations, various uniforms, service counters, seats inside passenger aircraft, etc.
It may not be realistic to design everything related to the airline in question, but I am very interested. Even if I don't get the commission, I would like to produce it during my retirement.

I kept seeing "good things." At the entrance ceremony of a graphic design school, the principal of the school at that time told us that we should keep looking at beautiful and excellent things. He said, "Keep looking at beautiful and excellent things. I think this means that what you experience and experience will always be your food. Therefore, I try to use and choose things that have excellent design and are beautiful in my daily life.
I also have the ability to verbalize my thoughts. In graphic design production, there are many opportunities to explain the intention and reason for production. I think it is necessary to have the ability to explain in such cases and to smoothly explain the intention behind the choice of expression. Reading is effective for this purpose.

Kashiwa Sato
https://kashiwasato.com/

Yugo Nakamura
https://tha.jp/

I like Kashiwa Sato's works in general.

Please make a lot of them. By making them, you will learn how difficult it is to make them. Don't be satisfied with just the information on the screen, but actually go there and experience the works, concerts, and trips. There are many things and experiences that you will not understand unless you go to the field. Keep trying. It is difficult to keep going, but your value will increase if you keep going. Don't do nothing at all, but keep going, even if it's just a little bit. Your efforts will definitely pay off.

I don't know, I have never imagined it. I'm glad I became a graphic designer and can't think of any other profession I'd rather be in.

One means to solve problems, achieve objectives, and realize visions.

All the people who have been involved with me. Clients, wives, family, friends, soccer team members...the list goes on and on.

I think that's what I answered in #11.

This is what I answered in #9.

I am still not an excellent graphic designer, so I will continue to work hard to become an excellent graphic designer.

I don't think there is anything man-made that is not designed. Just as we seek good taste and satisfaction in food and eating, I think it is only natural that people seek superior design and design in the things they use themselves.

This is a management support and sales improvement iPad app for beauty salons in Japan, released in April 2024. The total size of the app was about 100 to 150 screens, and we read the text provided by the client on how the app would be used. Based on the text, we studied the elements on the still blank screens, created wireframes, built a design system, and reflected the design system. It took a total of nine months to complete the project, which was quite a long time, but we were able to complete it successfully. I was also in charge of creating the logo for the service, which was carried out by a total of five people, including a freelance designer. I was also in charge of design direction.

Although it seems to be a manufacturing industry, I would like to see the concept of front-loading permeate the market.

依頼者へのヒアリングと依頼物に求める効果や結果。

Execution, action, going to see the site

I think it will change with the times, but it is only one tool or means to realize people's ingenuity with tools, so we should learn the necessary techniques and tools from time to time.

Mainly Adobe products and Figma.

We anticipate the origin of the idea and how it came to take shape.

In the mornings, we see and learn about design and a variety of information, as well as progress with thought-provoking content. In the afternoon, I work on production, meetings, and other tasks that require instantaneous judgment. I try to get plenty of sleep.

I would like to take a class at Bauhaus in Germany.

White, blue, pink, orange / I like Shibuya / I like Miso soup / Early summer, early winter

I used to make promotional brochures for my company when I was a company employee. There were several people who purchased products through those pamphlets, including friends from my school days and friends I met at bars. Of course, each of them did not know each other.

What motivates me is to listen to music and start operating my PC or Mac anyway.

I don't think about it at all because it's not worth thinking about.

You can check this website for more information about me if you like.
https://www.smoothandfriendly.com/en

I have been working independently as a professional freelancer since 2012.

An important element in graphic design is the ability of the design to achieve the objectives and solve the problems required of the production.
Flyers and pamphlets are produced to expand product recognition and convey detailed information. The content and approach will vary depending on the distribution method and target audience. Also for websites, if the purpose is to attract new customers and communicate company information, the content, site structure, and contents will differ. Of course, if it is a service website, it is also necessary to be conscious of guiding visitors to the content they are looking for, and of conversion.

While it is important to be beautiful and cool, we believe that what we have described above is what is required of the design. I think that being beautiful and cool is one of the necessary items for this purpose, but it is not the most important thing.

I enjoy creating graphic designs for Internet-related businesses and new businesses. They are always taking on challenging initiatives, and many of their businesses and services are ahead of their time.

I like to create corporate websites and user interfaces for web services and smartphone applications.
In both cases, I believe that the design of the lead-in line is important, and also that the impression that the user receives from the screen has a great impact on the viewer/user.

One of the booklets distributed at a small tutoring school in Japan had a page of columns related to the seasons. I designed the entire page spread for it, which I think was the first thing I designed after entering the workforce as a graphic designer.
It was around 2002, so I went to the library to research and write the text about eels for the article to be published, and since it was necessary to publish illustrations, I asked an illustrator to I asked an illustrator to do the illustrations for the article, and I also designed the entire paper. Since I was still a fledgling graphic designer at the time, I proceeded with the production while receiving several instructions for revisions from the director several times.

When I see something expressed in a museum or in the pages of a magazine that is beyond my imagination, it stimulates my imagination very much.
I ask myself, "How did you come up with this expression?" Why did you choose this expression? When I come into contact with something that I would not have thought of on my own, I am stimulated by the imagination when I think about the way it was expressed.

I believe that achieving objectives, solving problems, and realizing visions are the most important aspects of graphic design production.

When I am working on a project, I am always asking myself, "Will the product be understandable and operable by the intended viewer? Can they operate it? Are there any parts that are confusing? Is there anything that could cause misunderstanding? Is it not difficult to see? Are there any parts that might cause misunderstandings?

I am still happy. When I start work on a project, I always have some idea of what it will look like when it is completed, and I am happy when I can see it in a tangible form. Sometimes I wonder, "Did I really make this? I am that happy. That is how happy I am, and I become attached to what I have created.

In the case of graphic design, I think it is important to have a solid understanding of the object to be communicated and to dispel any doubts or doubts about the object within oneself.

In the case of graphic design, I think that a quick glance at a piece of paper or screen should convey exactly what it is trying to convey.
It is not necessary to know all the details, but it is necessary to know what it is trying to convey and what it is communicating. If you can only give an overview of the reservation by taking a closer look, the interest of the intended viewer will quickly fade away.

In terms of social responsibility, graphic designers need to ensure that the content of the client's message is easily understood by the intended audience, and that there are no misunderstandings or misconceptions.

Compared to the past, smartphones are more widespread and print media are in decline, but graphic design will always be necessary when communicating information, even if the contact medium changes.

In any case, I think it is to look at various works, go out and experience various things, and participate in events that interest you. It is not a matter of continually looking at or following a particular collection of works, but rather of satisfying one's own interests and curiosities, and the experiences gained will inspire one and become part of one's imagination when creating.

I live in Tokyo, Japan. This may have an impact on our clients, because in Japan, we are required to provide solid explanations and explanations. However, because of this explanation and commentary, there may be consideration of including information that could be omitted, or there may be more notes to dispel that concern, and we always consult and discuss with our clients about the necessity of such information when we are asked to include it.

Since our main clients are small and medium-sized companies, we may work on a project while talking directly with the CEO, or with the marketing manager or the head of product development.

I believe that designers who have the skills to explain various matters well are excellent. If you cannot verbalize your thoughts and ideas, you may not be able to explain your design intentions to the client, and you may not be able to keep up with the understanding of unclear points.

First, we carefully interview the client about the details of the request, the client's intentions, and the background that led to the request. I believe that this hearing is very important because it gives us a sense of the client's desires and the results they are looking for.
Based on these hearings, we communicate our understanding and move on to the overall design of the production. There are many more steps to be taken after that, but this is going to be a long story, so I will stop here.

It is important to see a lot of screens and papers and to be exposed to good works of art, but you should also actively go to actual sites and live venues, such as museums and music concerts. You will have a completely different experience when you actually go to a venue than when you just see it with your eyes, and you will have a different memory and different ideas connected to it.
Don't be afraid to put in the effort. If you want to do it, do it. Your efforts will be rewarded. Don't worry if someone says, "I can't do that. It is not you who cannot do such a thing, but the person who says you cannot do it.

Listening, understanding, and being able to verbalize what you are thinking.

Inspiration from my Mac comes from articles distributed from various websites that I get via RSS, which I have been adding and updating for many years. The other thing I do is to go to the bookstore once a week and look at magazines.

Previously worked as an in-house designer for a rental server company. I believe it has honed my ability to prioritize the information that needs to be posted and the information that needs to be posted.

Mainly small and medium-sized Japanese Internet service providers

Basically, I am engaged in production alone. However, for large-scale projects, I sometimes work as a team with another graphic designer whom I have asked several times in the past.

Released in April 2024, I was in charge of the UI and UX of an iPad business digitization and sales promotion application for owners and employees of beauty salons in Japan.
Since it was a new listing, it was an exciting project in which I was in charge of overall UI design production, including the creation of screen transition diagrams, consideration of the content to be included on each screen, UI wireframes, and the creation of the service logo.

Contact me through my website. https://www.smoothandfriendly.com/en
You can also contact me through Instagram, that's totally fine. https://www.instagram.com/smoothandfriendly/

If I can help you with my design skills, please feel free to contact me. I am looking forward to working with people from all over the world.

I think the best way for a musician to have a deep relationship with their fans is through the music. We have designed this system so that fans can first get to know the music, experience it firsthand, and find out what kind of background the musician has and what kind of thinking goes into creating the music.

My background in print design taught me how to express balance, rhythm, and visual harmony through static layouts. Later, working on digital interfaces helped me focus more on usability and how people interact with visuals in motion. I always try to blend these two worlds — the tangible sense of print and the interactive nature of digital — to create designs that feel both refined and alive.

Even when people speak on a daily basis, they are concerned about the other person's reaction or indication to their words. Whether you are cooking a meal or making a suggestion to a friend, you care about their reaction to what you say. For websites and blogs, Google Analytics allows us to see and analyze the response to the content we post.For musicians, the response to the music they produce is of great interest, and while posting on social networking sites allows them to see the response, there is a need to look across the board and keep track of the numbers that do not appear there, checking regularly to see if they are increasing or decreasing. I think it is necessary to keep a record of the increase or decrease of the number and the increase or decrease of the number that is not displayed there.Considering the time and effort required, this function is inevitable, and if it is difficult to check visually, it will not be used even if it is prepared. It would be useless. Therefore, I thought it was necessary to provide the information that musicians are looking for and display it in a way that they can intuitively understand without having to think about it too much.

This project was a team effort. One person was the president of a music label that he owned. This person was very knowledgeable about the music industry and asked us to develop this application for him.The team members discussed what needed to be improved, what was unnecessary, and what could be eliminated, and then proceeded with the project.I was responsible for the UI design, so I created and proposed the base and presented it to everyone. As needed, I made changes and improvements, or made suggestions and discussions, leading to the current form.

It is very simple. Web services and smartphone applications basically have no instructions. Some services have tutorials, but I think the best applications or services are those that are easy to use based on the user's experience, without looking at them, to take full advantage of the application's functionality. We focused on that.Prioritize the big picture, not the details. Prominently display the information people want to know. Additional information should be posted so that people who are interested can read it. Do not eliminate it. We believe that the user experience is improved by leaving the margins of the layout so that the necessary actions can be taken when the actions seem necessary.It's not very good when you think or do something in real life if you don't know what to do with the information on the UI.

Whether it is UI design or graphic design, I think there are design trends that are influenced by the culture of the country and its people.However, I believe that very good UI design and graphic design transcends such thinking. I think that everyone wants to know what information is needed or wanted on a page, regardless of country or culture, and that it is necessary to treat essential and necessary information according to need.An airport where people of different cultures mix is an obvious example. Post the minimum necessary information and encourage people to be vigilant. Information should be communicated strongly and firmly. As long as this is taken into consideration, I don't think there is a need to be aware of the country or culture.

We chose this size primarily because it is the most common screen size used by iPhone users. Of course, there are larger and smaller screen sizes available outside of the iPhone, but we felt it was necessary to target a screen size with a high usage rate.For other challenges, it is easy to make adjustments such as increasing the range on the technical side, so we made this decision.

I believe the role of AI in user experience will continue to grow and cannot be ignored.Even in Japan, tools like ChatGPT and Gemini are increasingly used in everyday life, and developers already rely on AI to work more efficiently and deliver features with greater accuracy.In the context of music discovery, I see potential for AI to better match user preferences with the unique personalities and styles of artists. However, I also feel that current natural-language prompt interfaces still place a heavy burden on users — requiring them to explain everything from start to finish in detail. This makes me question whether the experience is truly comfortable and intuitive for everyone.Going forward, I believe design must focus on reducing friction, minimizing cognitive load, and building interaction models that feel more natural and effortless. My aim is to create experiences where users can explore and discover new music and musicians comfortably, without stress or extra effort.In that sense, the advancement of AI represents a great opportunity — but only if we use it thoughtfully, in support of human comfort, curiosity, and enjoyment.

I think it is wonderful that music, art, and various other personal achievements can be transmitted to people who do not yet know about them. I think this is why the Internet has become the environment for communicating these performances beyond national borders.The influence of major social networking sites is huge, but I think there are still many ways to reach out and help people. I think we should do whatever we can to help.