We Are Paramont- Leal Liang

1. Could you briefly describe your design process? How does an initial concept evolve into a final product?

Our design process starts with receiving the product design requirements. We then move into market analysis, which includes defining the target audience and analyzing competitor products. After that, we gather materials, like trend reports, to stay updated on the latest styles. From there, we move into product planning, focusing on differentiated innovation, and then proceed to product design. Once the design is finalized, we create prototypes and conduct sample validation. Finally, we submit both the design drafts and final samples to the client for approval.

2. What challenges have you faced in your design work, and how have you overcome them?

When I first started designing for North American retailers, it was tough to get client approval. We often had to go through multiple rounds of revisions before they were satisfied. To get their approval, I focused on understanding their design preferences and future trends. First, I paid close attention to client feedback. Then, I studied both the client’s and their competitors’ designs in detail. I also learned from U.S. designers by analyzing the work they created for retailers and reviewing design trend reports. After about three months, when we started working on the next seasonal project, the approval rate for my designs improved significantly. This approach has since helped me handle new clients' design needs more smoothly, with an increasing success rate.

3. Which project in your design career has given you the most satisfaction, and why?

In 2019, I led the design team for a major client’s Halloween craft project, where we created 100 different product designs. The client was highly impressed, and the order conversion rate was nearly 80%, more than double the previous year’s Halloween craft orders. That was a truly rewarding project for me.

4. Looking back on your career, is there a moment or decision that was particularly crucial in shaping you as a designer?

In 2007, I had two job offers from different industries. One was a design role in advertising, a field I was familiar with, and the other was a design position at a DIY toy export company. Out of curiosity about the DIY toy industry and a genuine interest in the products, I chose the latter. That decision opened the door to my journey in the DIY toy industry, where I’ve grown and learned ever since.

5. How do you see the role of teamwork in the design process, and how does the company culture influence your creative work?

In teamwork, I play two key roles. First, as a leader, I’m often the one to dive into new tasks, familiarize myself with them, and then share the knowledge with the rest of the team. Second, as a supporter, I help when challenges arise by facilitating cross-department communication, coordinating resources, and assisting in dividing up the design workload.

6. What do you think is the biggest advantage of our products compared to similar ones in the market?

Our products are centered around customer value. Every touchpoint that a user interacts with reflects this, from the initial research, through design, to the final supply chain service. Each detail—whether it’s product display, packaging, materials, or instruction manuals—is meticulously crafted to ensure high-quality delivery, providing a superior experience for our users.

7. Technology plays an increasingly important role in modern design. How do you incorporate the latest technologies into your design process?

During the research phase, I use tools like ChatGPT to assist with gathering information. In the early stages of product design, I use AIGC (AI-generated content) to create concept images. From there, I refine the designs, adapting them to actual production processes to develop product designs that are both innovative and suitable for mass production.

8. Looking to the future, what are your expectations for the design industry and our products? Do you have any new ideas or plans?

As time progresses and consumers’ demands for products grow, future products will not only need to be functional and enjoyable but will also increasingly need to fulfill symbolic or personalized needs. This will create more opportunities for the design industry but also present higher challenges. Our product philosophy is to accompany children in joyful growth, helping them learn new things and unlock their potential while playing. With advancements in technology, we’ll see new materials and technologies being applied to children’s products. I’m confident our products will continue to improve and bring more happiness and better experiences to children. I’ve envisioned developing a product that integrates holographic technology, AIGC, and sensory toys to create an interactive indoor play space that combines entertainment, companionship, and education for children. With the development of holographic tech and AIGC, I believe this vision will become a reality.