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Rikki Devlin

Senior Designer / Toy Inventor at IDEO

Rikki Devlin is a Senior Designer at IDEO, specializing in product design and toy invention. Based in San Francisco, California, she has a strong background in creating engaging and playful products that enhance user experience. Rikki brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to her role, focusing on designing products that not only delight but also serve functional purposes.14

Her journey into design began with a degree in journalism, which she transitioned into product design after being inspired by design thinking concepts. Prior to her current position, Rikki held various roles at IDEO, including Designer and Senior Studio Producer. She has been recognized for her contributions to the field, including awards during her time at the University of Montana School of Journalism.235

Rikki's work often emphasizes the importance of play in product design, reflecting her belief that enjoyable experiences can significantly enhance user engagement.12

Highlights

Apr 10 · linkedin

I am absolutely stoked to announce that I have been promoted to Senior Designer at IDEO.

Over the past 5 years, my journey at IDEO has been nothing short of a rigorous master class in design—spanning toys, products, and beyond. Starting as a coordinator, progressing to a studio producer, and finally a designer, each role has been a stepping stone that finally led me here.

In this new role, I am excited to not only apply what I’ve learned confidently but also to share this wealth of knowledge with both my colleagues and our partners. I’m eager to continue crafting stories and bringing innovative concepts to life through sketching, multimedia, and prototyping. Expect more awesome toys and inspiring projects from our team!

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the IDEO Play Lab, Vlasta Komorous-King, Michelle Lee-Schmidt, and all of my teammates. Your guidance and support have been pivotal in my journey. Thank you for your patience, your belief in my potential, and the inspiring environment you foster.

Looking forward, I am enthusiastic about deepening my skills as both a storyteller and researcher. My goal is to contribute to our team's growth with the same patience and enthusiasm that was generously extended to me. Here’s to the next stone and more great experiences at this magical company. ❣

Aug 29 · linkedin

I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Designer at IDEO!

Four years ago I decided I was going to be a designer at IDEO - just a young journalism major who listened to a podcast about Design Thinking and changed her mind two months before graduation.

Before I took my last final in college, I was on my way to Palo Alto to start as a Studio Coordinator in the IDEO Playlab. My starting line.

This has my been my race for so long and it has been quite a marathon! I pulled up a chair at a lot of tables I didn't necessary have an assigned seat at. I jumped into important conversations over shoulders and while passing by. I soaked up as much as I could from the the brilliant people I was lucky enough to be surrounded by. I made the hard choice of not following amazing opportunities elsewhere. I fell in love with a whole industry and process. I struggled with heavy imposter syndrome only to be pulled up by incredible mentors and friends. I have learned so. damn. much.

AND I DID IT!!!!! I BELONG HERE!!!!

Here's to unconventional career paths, diverse backgrounds in design, leveraging ambiguity and my NEW starting line!

(Also, to the Play Lab - my amazing colleagues who have offered mentorship, skill shares, whole hearted encouragement, opportunities, and an unwavering sense of belonging - thank you so much for it all. I can't wait to continue innovating with the most creative group there is.)

Related Questions

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What is the IDEO Play Lab, and how does it contribute to toy innovation?
Rikki Devlin
Rikki Devlin, photo 1
Rikki Devlin, photo 2
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Location

Sacramento, California, United States