Dilip Kodlipet Jagadeesh, IDSA, Director of Product Design at Smartsheet, is leading the charge in making digital design more inclusive through the power of AI. With a background in computer science and over a decade of experience in product design, Dilip has been driven by a passion for breaking down technological barriers and ensuring that inclusivity becomes a norm in the digital world.
One of Dilip’s most significant accomplishments is the development of the “Design A11y” tool. This AI-powered accessibility checker is designed to work alongside interface builders, making it easier for designers to create content that is accessible to all users, including those with visual disabilities. By identifying accessibility issues and providing one-click solutions, Design A11y has simplified the often complex process of ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. The tool’s impact has been profound, promoting an inclusive design culture and making accessibility a seamless part of the design process.
The innovative approach of Design A11y has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, it received prestigious awards, including the Fast Company Innovation by Design Award and the Indigo Design Award. These accolades underscore the tool’s effectiveness and its role in raising awareness about the importance of inclusivity in digital content creation.
For more details on Dilip’s work with Design A11y, visit the Indigo Design Award website.
Dilip’s involvement with IDSA has also been a cornerstone of his professional journey. He describes his experience with the IDSA community as “incredibly enriching. The platform has provided numerous opportunities for networking and collaboration with a diverse and vibrant community of designers. Through IDSA, I have been able to connect with fellow designers and industry professionals, gaining insights and mentorship that have greatly influenced my work. The community’s support and the wealth of resources available have enabled me to stay ahead of industry trends and continuously improve my design practices. IDSA has also offered me platforms to share my knowledge and experience, further contributing to the collective growth and innovation within the design community.”
"IDSA’s support and the wealth of resources available have enabled me to stay ahead of industry trends and continuously improve my design practices."
About Dilip
Dilip Kodlipet Jagadeesh is a Product Design leader specializing in Enterprise Productivity Tools. Currently serving as the Director of Product Design at Smartsheet, he leads a creative team in developing design strategies and innovative experiences that enhance user productivity and collaboration. With a background in computer science and over a decade of experience in product design, Dilip has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in enterprise tools.
Dilip’s work is driven by a passion for creating inclusive and user-centric designs. In his role at Smartsheet, he leads several AI initiatives that significantly improve productivity for large enterprises. These initiatives focus on creating intuitive tools that simplify complex workflows and data analysis, making technologies accessible to a broader range of users.
In addition to his work at Smartsheet, Dilip is an active thought leader in the design community. He has authored numerous articles on AI-driven UI patterns and the future of design, providing insights that bridge the gap for designers unfamiliar with AI. His contributions extend beyond writing; he serves on the jury for several prestigious industry awards and works as an editor for the User Experience Professionals Association (UXPA) magazine. In these roles, he helps curate and assess advanced articles on user experience, contributing to the ongoing dialogue in the design field.
Dilip’s dedication to fostering inclusive and innovative design practices has set new benchmarks in the industry. He remains committed to continuing this work, driving further advancements in the field, and shaping the future of digital experiences.