Fang Nan: Catalyst for Connection
Design Director
by Elizabeth Lavis
|18 Jul 2025
Fang Nan, Experience Design Director for Pixel Pack, Inc., believes in using design as a catalyst for connection. “I believe that design is more than just aesthetics or functionality; it is a powerful tool for creating meaningful experiences that bridge the gap between people, technology, and ideas,” she says. “At its core, my work aims to make the digital feel human, to transform complex systems into intuitive, engaging, and emotionally resonant interactions.”
This philosophy is borne of Nan’s lifelong love for storytelling and her belief that every design has a narrative. Nan comes from China, and her upbringing and roots are fully intertwined with her ideas about design. “My cultural background taught me the value of harmony, balance, and simplicity in visual communication,” she says. “These principles guide me in creating work that is both impactful and thoughtful. In an increasingly digital and fast-paced world, I see design as a way to slow down, connect, and reflect.”
Nan’s design approach is reflective and personalized, hinging on strategic thinking and empathy. “Each project begins with a deep dive into understanding the client’s objectives, target audience, and the broader context in which the design will exist,” she says. “I believe that a thorough understanding of these elements is crucial for creating a solution that is both visually compelling and functionally effective.”
"Music Festival Creative Design", Fang Nan
She starts with in-depth research through user interviews, competitor analysis, and data exploration, which helps her hone in on pain points and opportunities to address them. Doing this helps inform the design direction. “Then, I move into the ideation phase where I sketch out concepts and experiment with different visual elements to align the design with the project’s goals,” Nan says. “Once I have a range of concepts, I create low-fidelity wireframes or prototypes to map the user journey and functionality. Doing this allows me to test and validate the design direction early in the process.”
This user-centric approach allows Nan to build a strong foundation and helps balance strategy and creativity. “I believe that great design is not only visually striking but also thoughtfully planned to achieve specific goals and resonate with users,” Nan says. “The most important aspect of a design for me is user connection. I believe that, at its core, design should create an experience that resonates emotionally and intuitively with users.”
Throughout the process, Nan practices active listening, which helps her establish trust and rapport with the client, a crucial part of her design process. “I believe that successful collaboration begins with open communication and a genuine effort to understand the client’s vision and goals,” Nan says. “I create a sense of partnership by sharing my approach, explaining design decisions, and providing regular updates.”
Nan’s ability to connect deeply with her clients relates to another passion in her life: a deep curiosity about the human experience and stories that shape our world. “I am fascinated by psychology, culture, and the ways in which people connect with one another,” she says. “This curiosity fuels my creative work, as I constantly seek to understand and integrate the emotional and psychological aspects of human behavior into my designs.”
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