www.derekniizawa.com

www.derekniizawa.com

Accomplishments:

iXpand Drive

• Led the ID design process, optimization of internal component layouts, architecture of mechanical part assemblies, CMF review and CM management.

• MFi member to assure the ID would fall within the MFi specifications.

Connect Wireless Media Drive:

• Defined the initial product category through internal brainstorms and market research.

• Led the product design initiatives defining the user experience and industrial design through manufacturing execution. This includes overseeing a global cross-functional mechanical, mobile app, web, and firmware teams.

• Managed mechanical and execution phases including EVT, DVT, PVT reviews, DFM and FEA

analysis

• Managed software development through RC and bug tracking (JIRA)

SanDisk Wireless Qi Charger (MobileMate):

• Evaluated the pros and cons of PMA vs. Qi (WPC) inductive technology.

• Partnered with Samsung to execute our design intent and oversee mass production.

Clip Zip and Sport:

• Led the core ID and UI disciplines to develop 4 generations of the Clip MP3 player. This includes delivering the ID and UI specifications through managing our overseas partners working within OEM and CM production models.

Patents:

7301596: Electronic Device with Dual Connector Actuator

7303411: Flash Drive Protective Door Mechanism

D570871: View Media Player

D570875: Clip MP3 Player: Gen 1

D580454: Rotating UI Icons

D584743: Fuze Video Player

D593066: slotMusic Player

D594874: slotRadio Player

D627758: Fuze+ Touch Player

D656122: Clip Zip

US20110090249 A1: Auto Generation of UI artwork

US D703,669 S: Nimbus Texture

Accomplishments:

A/V Design Team:

• Co-built an internal Industrial Design studio from 2 to 9 team members that were responsible for delivering industrial design, user interface, product design/architecture, and merchandising.

Sansa SlotRadio Player:

• As the lead designer, I played a key role in defining the “slotRadio” listening experience, which includes weekly updates to the executive team. Research new manufacturing processes, put key suppliers in place, created DOEs, and delivered an innovative product.

Sansa line of MP3 products:

• Designed a 3 tier lineup of MP3 and video players from good, better and best across multiple generations. Design research, industrial and product design, color trends, and manufacturing management.

Accomplishments:

• Introduced and defined the Product Design process which included managing ID firms to help meet Marketing’s ultra aggressive timelines. We developed signature-branding elements and leveraged them across the product lines. My cross-functional role assured the ID and UX was well accepted internally, managed over-seas product designer partners to meet our quality specifications.

• Managed the product design for several USB drives, external readers, and Mp3 players