Optum Digital Platform
Roles & Responsibilities
Overview
Tool used
User research, Product thinking, Strategic design thinking, Prototyping
Year : 2022 - present
Team: Project manager, Product Owners, Developers, Senior UX/ Product Designer(me), UX writer
Figma
Github
Miro
Jira
AHA
Please note: Due to the proprietary nature of the work completed at Optum, Inc., detailed case studies cannot be shared. The designs presented here are either publicly available, live in production, or have been modified to exclude sensitive information. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further clarification.
At Optum, Inc., I have contributed to impactful projects across SaaS, consumer, and fintech products within a leading organization at the intersection of healthcare and technology. As part of UnitedHealth Group, a Fortune 5 company, Optum addresses complex healthcare challenges through innovative solutions focused on improving health outcomes by placing patients and providers at the center of every design.
As part of the Optum UX Design team, I focus on creating intuitive and engaging product features where healthcare and financial technology converge.
I dive deep into understanding the core problem or feature, focusing on the acceptance criteria prioritized by the business. This foundation guides me to explore current workflows, identify opportunities to delight users, and collaborate closely with researchers to uncover valuable insights.
Exploring the Problem Space
Collaboration is essential throughout both diamonds. I work hand-in-hand with stakeholders across leadership, engineering, product management, sales, and customer service to build a shared understanding and shape the narrative that guides our users’ journey.
Once we clarify priorities, we map features to the sprint schedule. Some projects unfold over months, while others progress from concept to prototype in just days, the flexibility of the process helps us adapt and deliver value quickly.
My design approach aligns closely with the Double Diamond framework: first, I discover by deeply understanding the problem space, then define the core user needs and business priorities. This foundation guides the second diamond where I develop solutions through ideation, prototyping, and iteration, and finally deliver polished designs ready for implementation.
In the Discovery phase, I gather insights using both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Depending on the project scope, I either collaborate with UX researchers or take an active role in conducting interviews, usability testing, and competitive analysis. To accelerate synthesis, I leverage AI-powered analysis tools that surface key themes, user sentiments, and behavioural patterns. This approach minimize the need for prolonged discussions and provides a clear, focused starting point for ideation, enabling the team to transition from insights to concepts more efficiently.
Research & Insights
Drawing on my architectural background, I build a strong foundation by writing user stories and mapping task flows. These help me identify edge cases, position error notifications thoughtfully, and avoid “trap loops.” I keep a dedicated FigJam file as a living space to evolve and refine flows through the project lifecycle.
User Stories & Task Flows
During the Develop phase, I create quick sketches and iterate concepts in Figma to explore ideas rapidly. I have also started using AI feature for fast ideation and prototyping, which helps gather early feedback from stakeholders and foster collaboration. This approach supports transparent thinking and keeps the product vision aligned across the team.
Sketching & Rapid Iteration
Optum’s extensive design pattern libraries accelerate my work in high-fidelity design. I create interactive prototypes early and maintain a centralized “prototype links page” so stakeholders can easily access and review the latest UX iterations.
High-Fidelity Design & Prototyping
Through ongoing collaboration and weekly UX critiques, I minimize post-launch revisions and maximize impact. I’ve refined my ability to communicate design intent clearly and cultivate an open, safe environment for feedback.
Final Deliverables & Continuous Learning
Ultimately, I prioritize strong cross-functional relationships and actively brainstorm ways to make every team member’s day better. My growth as a Senior UX/Product designer at Optum motivates me to continue creating meaningful, user-centered experiences that truly make a difference.