About AJ Karim

AJ Karim

Ah yes, the obligatory ‘About’ section…

With my ego relatively in check and my narcissism at a minimal, I will try and tell you who I am, what I do, how I came to do what I do, and what I hope to be a part of in the not do distant future!

I am an interactive producer of web sites and rich media experiences that convey a story, educate, inform and entertain a wide range of varying audiences. My primary duties focus on managing the creation of these applications and experiences which communicate messages via words, motion, images and sound.

My involvement with a project begins with the concepting phase with that involvement never letting up, even post-launch. It is the job of the producer to ensure the client’s vision and goals are not only met, but exceeded when the world is introduced to the experience.

A producer’s role combines aspect of project and account management, with a touch of user experience design, content coordination, and overall information architecture. With my heavy technical background, I enjoy producing larger scale web sites and diverse internet applications. Although these types of projects are my specialty, I still find a great deal of satisfaction in smaller, clearly-targeted ad campaigns and teaser or micro sites.

The process I utilize in producing incorporates aspects of the traditional waterfall technique, but dabbles in the newer agile and lean project management. Implementing that strategy, alongside user-centered design, gives emphasis on delivering a clear message to the user and maximizes usability. A lot of tools are used during this process and they vary depending on the type of project I encounter. Some of these tools include user personas, wireframe prototypes, experience maps, data diagrams, and content inventories.

I have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a minor in Architecture and Urban Planning from The University of Wisconsin. I have over 11 years of experience in web design and development, along with client and account management. I have extensive experience working with interactive agencies on both coasts as well as directing the technical department for a major promotional product distributor.

So that’s it… I continue to grow and learn professionally as we deal with a new world that is less about throwing unnecessary money and flashy gawk pieces, and rather demanding clear return on investment with the experiences we create. I continue to explore new ways in perfecting the art of interactive production, and hope that the role becomes more recognized in the digital space in the coming years.