Paula Besterman

Working with cross disciplinary teams and global manufactures, I develop innovative computer hardware reflective of IBM’s design heritage and levels of technical expertise. Understanding how clients interact with our products, I execute on designs that focus on user experience; providing easy set up and maintenance. Refining attributes like form, material, texture, and labeling, I ensure products are not only beautiful, but intuitive in use, with high quality look and feel.

I also support IBM research by developing concepts for implementation of their most cutting edge technologies. Industrial design sketches and models allow investors to envision how new technologies can be used, and aid research teams in gaining funding.

Through IBM community outreach, I mentor aspiring designers from grade school age to college graduate students. As a member of IBM’s Green Team, I focus on environmental sustainability. With my IBM patent team, I develop intellectual property which drives innovation.

As part of Tivoli's Outside-In-Design team, I worked closely with developers, architects, and UX experts to create industry leading software products. Using my graphic skills, I produced innovative data visualizations, iconography, graphics, and layouts for Tivoli GUI designs. Taking part in customer interviews, I used the data gathered to make product improvements. Additionally, I worked with the branding department as part of the IBM one UI strategy which sought to unify common elements across the Software Group brands. I was also mentor to three design interns.

As a member of the design team, I explored creative new uses for Pergo's laminate product. My focus was on creating high quality products that were both cost effective and environmentally friendly. Based on my research of current market trends and cutting-edge materials, I developed innovative solutions that achieved these goals.

My responsibilities included:
-producing hand drawings, digital renderings, and physical models
-product comparison and analysis
-trend and materials research
-design presentations
-collaborating with global manufacturers

I interned with Enventys the summers of 2006 and 2007.
This internship afforded me the opportunity to collaborate with the marketing, engineering, and graphics departments to design and bring to market exciting new products. I enjoyed working directly with the clients and seeing the projects from start to finish.

My responsibilities included:
- Product development
- Ideation sketches and renderings
- Market and production research
- Client presentations