Adding value to digital products with Motion designer Luisa

In the past 6 years, we've shipped over 60 amazing experiences —most of which we crafted from the ground up with our partners. We shape their vision into a Minimum Perfect Experience, delivering future-proof designs, scalable architectures, and a solid foundation on which to transition the work to their own teams.

Time to meet the Motion-UI Designer at Z1, Luisa!

What led you to become a Motion designer?

Ever since I was a kid, I knew that I wanted to be a designer, but it wasn’t until I was at university in my third year of graphic design that I discovered Motion. I felt really curious and although the beginning was quite difficult, I worked very hard and managed to earn a top grade in the course. The following year, I had the opportunity to study another key subject in my career: interactive design.

In my early days of employment, I was working in the marketing department of a company before they quickly reassigned me to the Motion one, where I could dedicate myself to the most visual aspects of marketing. Another decisive moment in my professional career was when I discovered the work of Joëlle Snaith, an artist who became a role model for me. She inspired me to say "I want to dedicate myself to this", and coincidentally, years later, I met her at OFFF Sevilla, a renowned design event in my city.

I remember when I joined Z1 it was a bit experimental. My mixed profile between designer and Motion was interesting and they wanted to integrate it into future projects to add value to digital products. Meanwhile, I continued my training and began a Master's degree in interactive design and user experience at the Open University of Catalonia.

Luisa Jara has a fascinating profile between UI and Motion designer.

What are 3 words to describe Z1?

It is difficult for me to describe Z1 in just three words, but if so, I would say ‘thoughtful’, ‘conciliatory’ and ‘feminist’. I feel like I work for a company that is ahead of the pack when it comes to cool tools and projects. I would like to highlight their attention to detail, especially in terms of the worker, for example, the type of contract they offer, the flexible hours, and the confidence they put in you to allow you to balance your family and work life. Another important point for me is feminism and equal opportunities, something that, in this sector, is sometimes very difficult to find.

What is the favourite part about working for Z1?

The diversity of projects we take on, the good vibes, and teamwork. At Z1, we are a large team of different departments with each one having something special to contribute and this makes everything easier. I usually animate the products or illustrations that my colleagues make in an iterative process of creation of which we are all part.

What is on your wish list for the next 5years with Z1?

I would like the Motion team to grow and evolve into a position of greater responsibility where I could have a couple of people under my mentorship to be able to teach them everything I know. I would also like to participate in the development of a video game.

The diversity of projects, the good vibes, and the teamwork are the favourite parts about working at Z1 for Luisa.

What's your opinion about side projects? Have you ever got involved in one?

I think it's important to find the time to create your own things to explore your creativity beyond your working hours. Not only that but also to face different challenges, because when working on a project of your own you need to be not only the main designer but also the product manager, the head of marketing, and the developer.

During my degree, I had the opportunity to start a project called 'Espacio Negativo', which highlighted the role of female designers whose talent was not recognized in textbooks. The negative space in composition represents that other half, the invisible one, which is not the protagonist but is nevertheless decisive. Nothing would exist without that silent space.

I used this name as a metaphor for all the ignored women in this sector since during my degree they only showed us male references in design history class. Thanks to this project, I learned that there were many more female designers than those they tried to show us and that the glass ceiling is also a reality in this sector. My goal with this project was to make those silenced references visible for more people, and I think I succeeded.

How do you balance your career at Z1 and friends & family?

Z1 has been a pioneer in the establishment of remote work since its inception in 2015. If you are studying, have children, or simply want to prioritize your private life, this is your company. You have all the facilities and opportunities to continue training and developing in whatever you choose. In my case, being a mother, there are days that are complicated, therefore, the flexible hours help me to carry out my work and be able to continue with my life. Having the opportunity to manage your schedule yourself is a huge benefit.

Get to know Luisa and the rest of the Z1 team!

We’re delighted that Luisa decided to join Z1 – it’s been great having them on board! If you have any questions or want to get to know Luisa or one of their colleagues from the design team, we can put you in touch. Don’t hesitate to reach out!