Nice to meet you!

I am a UX Designer based in the Boston area. My background includes Instructional Design, Information Architecture, Product Management, Business Analysis and UX Design. Combining these skill sets lets me bridge the gap between business requirements and user needs. I create products that meet business objectives while delivering an optimal user experience.

Marlene Cook Headshot

Skills

Research Skills

User Research

Proficient at designing and executing comprehensive studies, gathering valuable insights, and translating user feedback into actionable recommendations for product and service enhancement, driving user-centric solutions.

Needs Assessment

I excel at understanding what people and groups need. I listen, observe, ask questions, think critically, and use what I learn to create actionable plans aligned with the requirements of stakeholders and end-users.

Business Analysis

I use data-driven insights for informed decision-making. Proficient in requirements gathering, process improvement, and strategic planning to enhance operational efficiency and drive organizational success.

Requirements Gathering

Adept at eliciting, documenting, and analyzing stakeholder needs to ensure successful project outcomes.

Problem Solving

Proficient in analyzing complex issues, identifying effective solutions, and making sound decisions to overcome challenges and contribute to organizational success.

UI/UX Skills

Information Architecture

Adept at structuring complex data, creating intuitive navigation systems, and organizing content to enhance user experiences, facilitating efficient access to information and improving usability across digital platforms.

Process Mapping

Skilled at visualizing and documenting workflows, identifying inefficiencies, and providing actionable insights for process improvement and optimization. 

Wireframing

Skilled in crafting detailed wireframes to visualize user interfaces, enhance user experiences, and facilitate effective collaboration in the design and development process.

Prototyping

Proficient in creating functional prototypes to visualize and test design concepts, facilitating effective communication and iterative development for user-centered solutions.

Tools

I have working knowledge of various tools including Figma, Adobe XD, Balsamiq, Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Canva, WordPress

Collaboration and Communication Skills

Collaboration

I have extensive experience working collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including developers, product managers, subject matter experts  and stakeholders.

Communication

My excellent communication skills allow me to present complex ideas effectively and articulate design decisions.

Stakeholder Management

Skilled at cultivating positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, ensuring effective communication, and aligning objectives to achieve project success and meet organizational goals.

Education

General Assembly

  • User Experience Design
  • Product Management
  • Digital Marketing
  • Visual Design
  • Front End Web Development

Syracuse University

M.S. in Instructional Design, Development & Evaluation

Ithaca College

B.A. in History
Minors in Writing and Advertising/Public Relations