I'm a product design and research leader based in Atlanta. I thrive in complex systems where people, technology, data, and operational challenges must work together.
Much of my work begins with messy, hard-to-identify problems. A workflow may be slow, a team might be making decisions with insufficient customer insights, a product can develop around exceptions, or a new AI feature may create more questions than solutions. My role is to clarify that complexity so teams can decide what to build, what to test, and what to leave alone.
I have over 15 years of experience in healthcare, enterprise software, telecom, public safety, and consumer platforms. Currently, I focus on human-centered AI, clinical workflows, design systems, and AI-enabled delivery. I lead research programs, shape product direction, develop design and delivery practices, and mentor those involved in the work.
I am passionate about research that affects decision-making and design that simplifies complicated tasks. I want AI experiences that people can question, evaluate, and trust. I am particularly interested in the space between insight and execution: how teams transition from what they have learned to real, usable, and safe solutions.
My work includes organizations like McKesson, AT&T, Digital.ai, The Home Depot, Cartoon Network, EY, and the CDC. I work at a director level and work remotely from Atlanta, GA.
I lead research, strategy, design, and team practices across complex product systems.
I transform discovery into product direction. This involves identifying the real problem before teams commit to a solution.
I outline workflows, roles, rules, dependencies, and edge cases so teams can understand how work actually occurs.
I design AI-enabled workflows that people can understand, question, correct, and trust.
I develop research, design, and delivery practices that help teams move from insight to execution with greater clarity.
The best indicator of successful practice-building is the impact it has on the people and teams involved.
Melissa invests time in understanding her team members, offering tailored advice that catalyzes both personal and professional growth. She doesn't just bring expertise; she brings a drive and enthusiasm that elevates everyone around her.
Aarthi Ravindran
Senior Product Designer · Digital.ai
With her guidance we were able to put together meaningful research activities including interviews, surveys and more, which ensured we are delivering the right thing the first time.
Terry Densmore
Product Management · Digital.ai
Focused education in AI product design, UX research, and accessibility.
Contributing patient perspective to epilepsy research and clinical strategy.