Summary

In this conversation with João Pacheco we discuss the future of design, exploring predictions and the evolution of design trends over the next five years. João shares his thoughts on the inevitable changes and challenges that the design world will face, emphasizing the need for adaptation and evolution in the field.

Takeaways

• The future of design is uncertain but evolving.
• Predictions about design trends are essential for growth.
• Adaptation is key in the ever-changing design landscape.
• Designers must embrace change to stay relevant.
• The conversation touches on existential themes in design.
• João's perspective highlights the importance of evolution.
• Dark humor can reflect deeper truths about the future.
• The next five years will bring significant shifts in design.
• Understanding trends can help navigate future challenges.
• Collaboration and innovation will drive the future of design.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to João Pacheco

02:16 João's Journey into Design

03:58 Early Career and Agency Experience

06:41 Moving Abroad: The Dubai Experience

09:20 Transitioning to Freelancing

11:02 Joining Dashlane: The Lisbon Office

12:29 Role and Responsibilities at Dashlane

16:09 Influences on Career Development

19:46 Design QA and Collaboration with Engineers

25:24 Designing for User Experience

27:24 The Role of AI in Design

33:09 Future Predictions for Design

34:41 Design Review: Analyzing a Website

44:37 Quickfire Questions and Insights

58:24 Introduction to Design QA

58:25 Challenges in Design Quality Assurance

Find Pacheco online

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joaopacheco/
• Strava - https://www.strava.com/athletes/3832841
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joao_pacheco/

Find Mahdi online

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahdif/
• X/Twitter: https://x.com/mahdif
• DesignQA.com: Automate your design QA process.

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✉️ Want to be on the show?

Got strong opinions about design QA? Reach out: ⁠[email protected]⁠

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Keywords: design QA, design systems, product design, UX, workflow, imposter syndrome, design critique, designer stories, future, predictions, evolution, trends

In this episode of the Design QA Podcast, Mahdi Farra sits down with Rodrigo Leles, a seasoned product designer with 15+ years of experience. Rodrigo shares his unconventional journey from fixing computers in Brazil to working with global tech companies like IFTTT.

They discuss how Rodrigo broke through imposter syndrome, the power of connecting with engineers, and his practical approach to quality assurance — one that’s less about fancy tools and more about relationships and clear communication. Rodrigo also explains how he built a practical design library that improved consistency, sped up delivery, and cut down design bugs — all without getting stuck in design system jargon.

The episode wraps up with a live design critique of Cobalt, an experimental video download tool, where Rodrigo points out smart, simple UX improvements.

If you’re a designer who obsesses over details, or wants to, you’ll walk away with practical ideas you can try today.

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• DesignQA.com — Automate your design QA process.

• Mahdi’s LinkedIn — Let's get connected!

Connect with Rodrigo

• Rodrigo’s Portfolio

• Rodrigo’s YouTube Channel — Stereosphere

✉️ Want to be on the show?

Got strong opinions about design QA? Reach out: [email protected]

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Keywords: design QA, design systems, product design, UX, workflow, imposter syndrome, design critique, designer stories