I help companies design better, ship faster, and get traction.
What I do · Writing & Case Studies · About · Contact
My clients are usually software teams with a big goal. They need to build an incredible product fast, but they're hitting the limits of what they can design in-house.
I'm both a product designer and design coach. My first priority is helping my clients build something their customers love; a close second is teaching them to design better on their own.
The four least-teachable traits of great designers
Step one: literally put your priorities in order
A rapid run-through of user journey mapping and minimal UI design
A glimpse at lean product design methods
Music tools for intuitive improvisation
I like making complex systems simple, adding delightful details, and supporting self-directed learning.
In 2012, I was the first employee of YC-backed FarmLogs. We started as three people on a couch, raised $35MM, grew to 70 people, and onboarded â…“ of American farmers on our platform.
I led our design, built our brand, and architected our UX from the ground up. As we grew, I became Director of Product Design, hiring a high-performing design team and using design to drive product strategy.
Later, I co-created a design course at the University of Michigan. Our goal was to build practical design skills in our students, who went on to work at Google and other high-growth tech companies.
Before FarmLogs, I created my own Bachelors of Philosophy degree in Human-Computer Interaction. I've also founded local design organizations and served as a startup mentor at TechStars Mobility and other accelerators.
"Sam is an incredibly talented product designer and coach. He was instrumental in helping FarmLogs design a product and brand that quickly became recognized for our ease of use, igniting years of rapid growth for our company." "
"Within 5 minutes of Sam starting his talk, I texted my team: 'Damn, Sam is good.' I can't recommend Sam highly enough for anyone interested in creating early-stage products, gathering feedback from potential users, or just learning tips for making it through the emotional grind of startup life."
If you're curious about improving your design or product work, get in touch.
Additional case studies and work samples available on request. Email for rate and availability.