Dawn Ferguson

About Dawn Ferguson

I am a Senior UX Researcher who thrives at the intersection of human‑centered insight, systems thinking, and creative problem solving. My work is grounded in understanding people deeply, not just what they do but why, and translating those insights into strategic opportunities, clearer problem definitions, and early‑stage concepts that help teams move forward with confidence.Over time, I have learned that what energizes me most is not only answering research questions but shaping the questions themselves. I enjoy reframing ambiguous problems, uncovering patterns, and helping cross‑functional teams align around what truly matters. My approach blends rigor and creative insight, which allows me to move fluidly between research, strategy, and concept development.I am especially drawn to work that sits upstream, including:• defining opportunity spaces• mapping systems and experiences• facilitating alignment• exploring early concepts• connecting insights to innovationI bring a calm, collaborative presence to complex environments and enjoy guiding teams through the messy middle, the space where ideas take shape, direction becomes clear, and new possibilities emerge.I am expanding my practice into innovation consulting and creative strategy, where human‑centered thinking and systems‑level insight can support more expressive and imaginative work.

Experience

1. Senior Ux Researcher

   Microsoft

   Mar 2022 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

   I lead research that helps teams understand people, define problems, and make informed decisions across complex product ecosystems. My work focuses on uncovering insights that reveal opportunities, clarify direction, and support early‑stage concept development.Core contributions:• Frame ambiguous problem spaces and align stakeholders around shared understanding• Conduct generative and evaluative research to uncover insights and opportunity areas• Synthesize findings into clear narratives, strategic recommendations, and experience frameworks• Map systems, journeys, and workflows to reveal friction points and design levers• Partner with cross‑functional teams to shape early concepts and guide direction• Facilitate workshops that support ideation, prioritization, and alignmentStrengths I bring:• Human‑centered thinking• Systems‑level insight• Clear, compelling storytelling• Collaborative facilitation• Turning complexity into clarityThis role reflects my commitment to insight‑driven innovation and experience strategy, and it continues to shape the foundation of my expanding practice in innovation consulting and creative strategy.

Education

• University of Washington

  Master's Degree, Human Centered Design and Engineering

  2018 — 2020

• University of Central Florida

  MA, Education

  2004 — 2007

• Palm Beach Atlantic University

  Bachelor's degree, Organizational Management

• Communication Leadership at the University of Washington

  Master Class—Accessibility and Inclusive Design

  2019 — 2019

Skills

• Printmaking
• Illustration
• Ceramic
• Clay
• Museums
• Studio Art
• Art
• Leadership Development
• Curriculum Development
• Event Planning
• Classroom
• Figurative Art
• Art History
• Microsoft Office
• Public Art
• Fundraising
• Watercolor
• Murals
• Editing
• Abstraction
• Portrait Painting
• Tutoring
• Educational Technology
• Graphic Design
• Event Management
• Mixed Media
• Visual Arts
• Sculpture
• Customer Service
• Drawing
• Photography
• Research
• Art Education
• Staff Development
• Public Relations
• Powerpoint
• Pottery
• Contemporary Art
• Galleries
• Educational Leadership