Brian Speier is a Los Angeles-based UX and UI designer known for his unique ability to incorporate aesthetically pleasing design features without compromising the functionality of the overall user experience. The longtime Southern California resident specializes in streamlining web-based platforms as well as mobile applications for clients through his entrepreneurial endeavor, Brian Speier UX/UI Design Consulting.
Inspired to pursue a career in UX/UI design during his time as a student at UCLA, Brian’s academic success enabled him to land a coveted position with one of the industry’s top firms. Although he continued to excel as a professional, the UCLA graduate ultimately decided to pursue a greater sense of professional fulfillment through Portland entrepreneurship. After working as a freelancer for a period of time, Brian made his entrepreneurial venture official and founded the Portland company that has since gone on to earn a reputation for striking the perfect balance between form and function for each and every client.
Throughout his professional career, Brian has relied on a variety of influences unique to Southern California and Los Angeles in particular. Even though his work is often praised for its focus on practicality and streamlined efficiency, Brian is quick to note that his approach to UX and UI design is consistently inspired by the visual artistry that surrounds him and his fellow Angelenos on a daily basis.
Whenever he is in need of sudden inspiration, Brian will briskly walk along the streets of the city until he finds a striking visual to spark his creativity, and he is equally likely to find that spark after walking through the doors of an art gallery as he is while walking past a mural decorating the wall of an alley or even the underside of an overpass. As his clients often point out, Brian’s work reflects a belief that uncompromising artistry can be found anywhere you happen to look.
1. What was your best/favorite subject in school?
We had quite a few classes devoted to the visual arts as well as CS, so I consider myself quite fortunate to be exposed to diverse coursework associated with my favorite subjects.
2. What was your first job?
I got a job with one of the top design firms almost immediately after graduating from UCLA.
3. Where and how did you first get into the industry you currently work in?
I guess I am one of the fortunate few who knew exactly what they wanted to do as a professional, because my academic focus always pointed to a future in my current industry.
4. How have those jobs prepared you for what you do now?
The only thing I was unsure of after finishing my degree was whether I should go into business for myself or if I should work for someone else. After experiencing the latter, I knew that entrepreneurship was for me.
5. Describe the best day of work you’ve ever had.
The best day of work was the last day I worked as an someone else’s employee; I love the freedom made possible through entrepreneurship and the challenges that accompany it.
6. How do you keep yourself motivated?
I’m surrounded by artistry everywhere I go, which motivates me to find new ways to express myself through my professional work in UX and UI design.
7. What kind of business ideas excite you most?
Mobile applications, in my opinion, offer the most exciting future opportunities.
8. Have you ever tried any unorthodox techniques to attract attention to your business?
We mostly utilize digital marketing strategies, but we have always been open to new and innovative ideas or practices.
9. What personal achievement are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of walking away from a stable, lucrative position in order to pursue something more personally and professionally rewarding.
10. What wisdom you would have liked to share with yourself when you first started out?
Never hesitate when you have the opportunity to bet on yourself.