I earned my DP designation in 2016 after assembling a detailed package, including 15+ nomination letters from executives and technical leaders above my band level from business units across the company. Promoting myself like this was a real test for my imposter syndrome!
Becoming a Design Principal (DP) as a Designer is parallel to an Engineer becoming a Senior Technical Staff Member (STSM). Indeed, many of my nominations were from Engineering leaders.
Similar technical contributions are required, such as patents or other intellectual property, compared to becoming an STSM. Additionally, a portfolio of design work is required, to be evaluated both by the Design leadership and the same accomplished Engineering executives and Distinguished Engineers/Fellows who appoint STSMs for the engineering career path.
I collaborated with other Design Principals to recommend how designers can acquire domain knowledge. As an industry solutions software designer, I had to do this often - and loved it.
I collaborated with other Design Principals to identify causes and solutions for organizational silos encountered in our design roles. We reported our findings to design executives and peers.
I've helped to review and evaluate applications for up-and-coming Design Principals. It's made me feel a certain way. I enjoy the opportunity to be supportive and excited for the IBM Design community and our amazing individuals. And I still can't believe I'm in that club. It helps me to look at myself more from the outside-in.
In 2021, I co-led the Event Programming Committee of the first annual IBM Spark Design Conference. It recharged me to help design a conference event that generated excitement across IBM. In 2022, I've adopted a consultant role to the Event Programming Committee to aid with continuity from 2021.