Linda Macken, Master of Culture and Arts, Leadership and Service Design
"The studies gave me a good base for service design. What I loved the most was our group and the connections I got through this process."
I am a Service Designer and Graphic Designer with a technical background. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, from Turku University of Applied Sciences in 2004. I first worked in the health care technology industry in 2000–2010. During those years I made alarm and patient call system installations, testing, and also taught our clients how to use the product.
I have always been interested in the field of marketing and design, so, as a side project, I studied for another degree and in 2006 I got a further qualification in Audiovisual Communications. In 2007-2010 I worked for a small advertising business I co-started and co-owned together with four others. That taught me the very basics of planning and running a business.
In 2010 I started working full-time as a Graphic Designer for Otavamedia’s B2B Content Marketing Unit in Turku.
Why did you choose Novia UAS and Leadership and Service Design?
As the business evolved from print products to digital products, I wanted to study more to supplement my skills in design software, and to learn more about developing services and concepts.
In spring 2016, I first took a short introduction course, ‘Digital Service Design’, and, later in the autumn, I started my studies in the Leadership and Service Design program, first as an open UAS student.
Because of my designer background the Master's degree in Culture and Arts was a natural choice for me.
What are you working with today?
Today, I work at Someco Oy as a Service Designer and Art Director. I'm bringing elements of service design in developing our services and design processes to help our clients to create more effective and useful content for them and their customers.
How do you feel that the studies prepared you for working life?
The studies gave me a good base for service design. What I loved the most was our group and the connections I got through this process.
I would recommend to actively connect with people, search new books and online groups where people share their knowledge. While studying, try out different methods with the group and practice how much working hours and resources are needed in certain phases.
A significant part of your work as a Service Designer will be explaining, selling and justifying your method choices and the use of time in the project to whoever is funding the project. This usually means your customers, your colleagues and executives.
Why would you recommend the degree programme to others?
If you're interested in creative work, inspired by change, understand different point of views, and want to genuinely find business solutions that are best for everyone they effect, Service Design is for you.