Q&A with Dantley Davis | Figma Blog (opens in new tab)

Dantley Davis’s Config 2021 Q&A presents design as intentional problem-solving shaped by curiosity, collaboration, and diverse perspectives. He emphasizes using adversity and data to create meaningful impact, while staying humble and avoiding ego-driven design culture. His answers also highlight the importance of cross-disciplinary knowledge, personal creativity, and building inclusive teams.

Design Philosophy and Creative Practice

• Davis describes his creative process as “intentional.”
• The best design solves an unrecognized problem so effectively that people cannot imagine life without it.
• He defines design as problem-solving through form and function.
• His greatest design fear is producing work that receives no reaction.
• He dislikes designing primarily for oneself.
• He values data as an underused tool for informing design decisions.
• His favorite UI font is Montserrat; he prefers Akzidenz-Grotesk for type, hex colors, and specifically #000000.

Collaboration and Team Culture

• Good teammates are curious and ego-free.
• Teams feel cohesive when members:
  • Seek feedback because they trust one another.
  • Inspire each other through their work and perspectives.
  • Set aside personal ego.
• Davis considers building the most diverse team in tech his greatest career accomplishment.
• He views mentorship as an important part of his role in the Design Twitter community.

Leadership and Professional Growth

• Davis is skeptical of the emphasis placed on being a “thought leader.”
• He encourages young designers to study business, engineering, and finance to become more well-rounded thinkers.
• He admires Issa Rae for combining writing, producing, and acting while remaining authentic to her story.
• He credits personal time and side projects with helping him do his best creative work.
• He regrets that one shipped product remained available too long after it stopped meaningfully benefiting users.

Design Inspirations and Future Ambitions

• Davis would like to design a car interface and would love to shape Porsche’s entire ecosystem, from driving to its app.
• He admires designer Clement Mok and would invite him to critique his team’s work.
• He praises Roblox for enabling children to play, socialize, and build rather than merely consume content.
• He enjoyed Afrotech’s virtual conference, especially its combination of online access and a feeling of presence.
• His favorite Figma feature is Observation Mode.

Ultimately, Davis advocates for intentional, user-centered design supported by data, interdisciplinary learning, honest feedback, and inclusive collaboration.