Rakia Finley

User experience design is one approach to addressing the issues of unconscious bias often found in today’s technology. Unconscious bias is an often overlooked and undervalued aspect of UX design since the little details seem to be so minor to us, however, these minor details can have large and lasting impacts. Designing a user experience without paying attention to unconscious biases is leaving out small changes that, in turn, alienate large demographics of people and shrink your client base. On the other hand, making these small changes could be just the kickstart your product needs to expand and catch on within other demographics. This presentation will detail how to identify and overcome unconscious bias in order to achieve the maximum client or consumer base possible. In this session, we'll discuss how to identify our bias and when it does to us when designing for our users. Through activities, we'll identify what is needed to eliminate bias and build with everyone in mind.

The question, “What’s it like being a [INSERT TITLE HERE] in the industry” is a question we attempt to answer within the tech ecosystem daily that generates separation among our staff. However, this conversation at times is done to generate change while really creating division and never seems to get to the root of its issue. In this presentation we’ll discuss — the bigger issue within diversity within our development team. When unconscious bias affects how are teams work together and deploy innovations what happens? This session will discuss identifying your unique strengths, allowing your purpose to lead the way, and knowing what concessions you’re willing to make without resentment to relieve technology of bias production.

As young women enter the workforce they are normally immediately given a label and then given tasks, pay, and opportunities according to that label. Changing your narrative is taking control of your life, your aspirations, and your future but it requires you to control the narrative that is generated about you. As women in a male-dominated workforce, it can be difficult to simply exist without being automatically defined. Changing your narrative is hard, it takes courage and bravery. In this workshop you will learn how to speak up and to talk about yourself, your career, your goals, and your expectations of others without limiting yourself or your potential.