In the dynamic world of UX design, Hui Jing and Jinda Zhong have made their mark with projects that not only address pressing societal issues but also blend creativity and technology in meaningful ways. Both with a background in graphic design and Human-Computer Interaction Design (HCID), Hui and Jinda bring a unique perspective to user-centered design, focusing on improving lives through thoughtful, empathetic approaches. Their latest creation, Upband, recently featured in a prestigious art exhibition in Florence-ISOLART UNIT“INSIDE”, reflects their commitment to creating innovative solutions for the post-pandemic world.
The Journey from Design to Social Impact
Hui and Jinda’s partnership is built on a shared passion for designing products that resonate with users on a deep level. Both have a diverse background in visual communication and HCID, which has provided them with a robust foundation to craft designs that not only function well but are aesthetically pleasing.
“We’ve always been drawn to the idea that design is not just about solving technical problems but about addressing human needs,” explains Jinda. And Hui, adds, “It’s the blend of empathy and technology that drives us, especially when tackling challenges brought about by the pandemic.”
Designing for a Changed World
Their recent design project, Upband, epitomizes this vision. Inspired by the global shift in lifestyle due to the pandemic, Upband seeks to bridge the gap between physical health and creative expression through music. As the pandemic forced people to remain sedentary, the mental and physical health of many declined. Hui and Jinda saw an opportunity to use their design skills to create something that could help improve both physical activity and mental well-being.
“The inspiration for Upband came from observing how music can naturally motivate movement,” says Jinda. “We wanted to create an app that turns exercise into a musical experience, using motion-tracking technology to transform simple physical activities into a fun and engaging process”. Upband is designed to make exercising enjoyable, transforming movement into music using a smartwatch’s motion-tracking technology. It’s more than just a fitness app—it’s a way to bring people together through shared, joyful experiences.
Creating for Diverse Audiences
While Upband focuses on promoting health through music, it’s just one part of Hui and Jinda’s broader design portfolio. Their work spans various aspects of post-pandemic life, from mental well-being to new travel and working habits. In previous projects like TravelBot and TikKits, they have addressed the needs of different groups, from students navigating travel restrictions to those seeking new ways to connect with food and culture online.
“The pandemic forced us all to rethink how we live, work, and interact. Our projects reflect this change, aiming to create tools that help people adapt and thrive in this new reality,” Hui reflects. “Design is not just about making something functional—it’s about understanding the deeper needs of users and creating solutions that resonate with their experiences.”
Looking Forward: Innovation with a Human Touch
As they continue to innovate, Hui and Jinda remain committed to creating designs that foster connection and well-being in the post-pandemic world. With projects like Upband, they hope to encourage people to embrace physical health in a more creative and enjoyable way, turning daily activities into a collaborative and musical journey.
“Our goal is to continue pushing the boundaries of UX design by integrating technology and human experiences in a way that feels natural and engaging,” Jinda explains. “We want to make sure that our designs not only solve problems but also bring joy and connection into people’s lives.”
For Hui and Jinda, the future of design lies in its ability to make life better for everyone. Through their collaborative spirit and focus on empathy, they aim to keep creating tools that help people navigate the complexities of the modern world while fostering a sense of community and well-being.
