May Member Spotlight – Angela Randall
Where do you work, and what does you company or organization do?
I work at Normal Modes, a user experience and usability company. We conduct usability testing on enterprise websites and applications, as well as training in user experience, usability testing and customer experience. Recently we rolled out a beta version of our first software-as-a-service product. Brainiac is a learning content management system (LCMS) that allows organizations to market, deliver and manage online continuing education with a self-service platform. Brainiac’s been a labor of love, and we’ve had a blast working with early adopters and putting just about every aspect of our experience to use on our own product.
Briefly describe your job.
As the founder of the company, I wear a lot of hats! On the usability testing side I meet with clients to figure out how we test problems, develop a test plan (called the moderator’s guide), conduct testing with users, and write reports. Unlike focus groups, usability testing is one-on-one with a highly structured script taking the user through a prescribed series of tasks to be completed. There’s a lot of rigor that goes into testing, and part of my job is ensuring we meet and exceed standards for excellence. I’m also an instructor in our training workshops and write a newsletter called “UX Tips” that offers lessons from the trenches for free. It’s published about twice a month, and I spend a lot of time putting together content that’ll add value. Of course, I couldn’t do it all without my fabulous team. I love them like they’re my family (some of them even are!)
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Reserve your seat at the 26th Annual AMA Crystal Award
Don’t miss Houston’s premier event honoring the best marketing work in the city! Mark your calendar to be at the Hyatt Regency Houston on May 17, 2012!
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April Member Spotlight – Kate Wiggins
Where do you work, and what does your company or organization do?
I work with Blue Sky Marketing, a marketing strategy firm that provides marketing and business strategy development and support. We like to think that the analysis we do with operations and sales coupled with innovative marketing thinking means our Blue Sky strategies help companies achieve their revenue and marketing goals.
Briefly describe your job.
As an Account Manager, I work directly with our clients to guide them through the world of marketing strategy and implementation. I work almost as a team member within client organizations to choose and implement tools that work for their business, today and tomorrow. My job is exciting in that we provide marketing services ranging from brand planning and business advisement to Internet strategy, website design and social media guidance. The constant movement and quest for innovation in marketing is a constant in our world.
If you weren’t at your current job, what would you want to be doing instead?
If I weren’t in my current job, I would love to be working in Spain. I lived there for two years prior to moving to Houston and absolutely loved my time there. The culture, the language, the lifestyle are all very dear to me.
What is your all-time favorite marketing campaign or brand?
Coca-Cola. In addition to the advertising, sponsorships and many other communications strategies they have employed over the years, they have been doing some incredibly innovative experiential marketing, like a Traffic Jam Cinema in Colombia and Wake Up the Magic Christmas experience in Mexico and other countries around the world. The way they find new ways to build brand loyalty is inspiring.
What’s your favorite food or drink?
Since it’s the season, crawfish! Being from Louisiana, I am glad that I moved to a city that also has a crawfish scene. Finding the city’s best crawfish becomes a fun adventure in March and April. The best accompanying beverage for me would be St. Arnold’s Spring Bock. The combination is heaven.
How long have you been an AMA Houston member?
I have been a member of AMA Houston for three years, but have been attending events and supporting coworkers that were active members for several years before that. Since joining, I have become more active in volunteering myself, with Membership, the Multicultural SIG and Crystal Awards.
What’s your favorite thing about AMA Houston?
I have very much enjoyed the people that I have had the pleasure to volunteer with, forming relationships with fellow marketers in the community. I value above all the networking opportunities within such a friendly organization like the AMA Houston chapter.
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Spring Membership Drive from May 1-June 24
Become a Member of AMA Houston Today!
Respond before April 30th and we’ll waive the $30 registration fee
plus get a $20 Amazon gift card or $200 off coupon for any AMA national conference
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