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An AI-powered tool for designers
An AI-powered tool for designers
In my graduate thesis project, I explored a new AI-powered design process and designed an app to embody this vision—before large language models like ChatGPT became mainstream.
In my graduate thesis project, I explored a new AI-powered design process and designed an app to embody this vision—before large language models like ChatGPT became mainstream.
Timeline
Sep 2021 - Apr 2022
Role
Product Designer
Tool
Figma
App Design Overview
App Design Overview
Onboarding Experience
Onboarding Experience
Inputing Text Contents
Inputing Text Contents
Uploading Images
Multiple options generated by AI
Multiple options generated by AI
Fine-tuning one option
Fine-tuning one option
Design System
Design System
Outcome
Outcome
At the time of this project, AI systems were far from usable in everyday design work. Rather than treating AI as a replacement for designers, this project explored how AI could act as a supportive tool—generating options while leaving critical judgment and decision-making in the hands of the designer.
By positioning the designer as a strategic decision-maker, the process shifted focus away from manual execution and toward content, intent, and meaning—areas where human judgment matters most.
At the time of this project, AI systems were far from usable in everyday design work. Rather than treating AI as a replacement for designers, this project explored how AI could act as a supportive tool—generating options while leaving critical judgment and decision-making in the hands of the designer.
By positioning the designer as a strategic decision-maker, the process shifted focus away from manual execution and toward content, intent, and meaning—areas where human judgment matters most.
Reflection
Reflection
This project shaped my long-term view of AI in design: not as an autonomous creator, but as a collaborator that expands possibilities while preserving human authorship. It also reinforced my interest in designing processes and systems, rather than isolated artifacts—an approach that continues to influence my work today.
This project shaped my long-term view of AI in design: not as an autonomous creator, but as a collaborator that expands possibilities while preserving human authorship. It also reinforced my interest in designing processes and systems, rather than isolated artifacts—an approach that continues to influence my work today.
Designed and Built by Dake Cui © 2026
Designed and Built by Dake Cui © 2026