About Me
Hi, I'm Michel Rodriguez!
I work at the intersection of design, business, and technology to solve problems that matter.
After spending 7+ years designing products and creating experiences, I've developed an approach that balances technical precision with human intuition. My background combines formal training in Art Direction and Interaction Design with hands-on experience across multiple domains.
Experience
Founder of Buro
- Founded a digital design studio focused on creating memorable user experiences for startups, SMEs, and solopreneurs
- Created design systems and brand identities that emphasize storytelling and emotional connection
- Built and maintained a publication exploring design philosophy, UX trends, and creative approaches
- Established a complementary ecosystem of design-focused micro-projects to showcase expertise and generate additional revenue streams
Product/ Brand designer at M!chel
- Led end-to-end design process for Web3.0 clients
- Established comprehensive design systems on Figma with detailed documentation on Notion
- Conducted accessibility audits and implementations for digital products, achieving WCAG 2.1 AA compliance
- Executed UX/UI consulting with focus on interface simplification and rationalization
- Collaborated with development teams to ensure pixel-perfect implementation across multiple platforms
Product designer at Shopmium
- Created and implemented design system from scratch, improving design consistency across B2C and B2B cashback applications
- Complete UX/UI redesign that improved app store ratings to 4.6
- Facilitated user research workshops and testing sessions, generating actionable insights for product improvements
- Managed transition of interfaces and design system from Sketch to Figma
- Collaborated with marketing team on rebranding initiative, ensuring cohesive implementation across touchpoints
Art director at Vitaline
- Conducted comprehensive market research and competitive analysis, identifying key positioning opportunities
- Developed complete rebranding strategy and visual identity
- Created cohesive design guidelines and assets for digital and print applications
Graphic designer at Sociabble
- Produced B2B interfaces to adapt the white label platform to the client's brand
- Designed engaging animated designs to explain how the platform works
- Created case studies and assets for digital and print applications
Approach
I see design as a tool for solving problems, not just making things look good. This means:
- Starting with questions rather than solutions
- Using data and research to guide decisions
- Building systems rather than one-off designs
- Making technology more accessible and human (Accessibility, GDPR, etc.)
I'm particularly interested in how design can bridge the gap between complex technologies and everyday human needs.
Beyond Work
When I'm not designing, I enjoy photography, hiking, and playing with emerging technologies. I've recently been exploring the intersection of design and artificial intelligence, and thinking about how we maintain the human element as our tools become increasingly automated.
I'm also the occasional victim of my own terrible dad jokes. You've been warned.