Who is this guy?
Hello! I'm Ton Hanchai. I solve problems, plan with purpose, mentor with heart... and occasionally, I’ve been told by friends and family that I made a mean Thai Green Curry. :-)
Over the years, I’ve been lucky to explore many different design roles. I started out doing hands-on creative work as a Graphic Designer, Rapid Prototyper, and Sr. UX/UI Designer, then moved on to leading creative teams as a Sr. Visual Design Architect and Creative Director. Later, I had the chance to share what I’ve learned by teaching others as an Adjunct UX/UI Design Instructor. Now, I’m focused on growing even more as a Principal Interaction Designer where I get to design smart systems and solve big problems every day.
I’ve worked on lots of cool projects that help people use technology more easily, from home security systems and shopping apps to video games, learning tools, and online ads. One of my favorite experiences was helping design the original Xbox 360 dashboard (yep, the one with the 'Blades'), building smart dynamic ad platforms at Google, and creating new ways for students to learn at McGraw Hill. I build with purpose and lead with empathy whether I’m designing complex interfaces, mentoring teams, or running workshops.
I believe...
that great design isn’t just about choosing cool fonts and color palettes. It’s about creating clarity, impact, momentum, and meaningful outcomes.
Each role whether focused on craft, strategy, or leadership has shaped how I think and how I build. I’m grateful for the journey, the challenges, and the many people I’ve learned from along the way.
Things I've authored online:Project Highlights
There’s a little bit of everything here. From big wins to behind-the-scenes problem-solving, each project has its own story. I’ve tried to keep things simple, honest, and hopefully a little fun to explore. Hope you find something that sparks an idea or makes you smile.
Explore a handful of featured projects, each with a snapshot of the design thinking process, discovery insights, and what I learned along the way.
And some of my other projects, just the essentials: what it was about and how it ended up looking.
Ton was established as an immediate leader, even then, with an extensive, rare background in both computer science and design. Ton was depended on to stay a step ahead of the technology landscape and a vital member in the success of the company - and he delivered, time and time again...I personally had the priveledge of working directly with Ton whom basically tought me the roots of everything I know about interactive design... Ton has always been one to stay current and update his skillset and value, year after year. Ton is a very established kingpin to the interactive design industry on almost any platform or device and sets the precedence for knowledge and experience in this ever-changing field...Ton is a true loyal friend, colleague, and employee that I don't ever expect to see a replica of.
Dane Storrusten – VP, Creative & Brand at NFL
I worked with Ton for over a year on several projects where he has demonstrated craft, patience, flexibility, learning and teaching, and new ways to help clients solve complex problems in a way that is smart and easily consumable to they are able to turn and explain/sell it to their leadership team. In my twenty years in the industry, I have rarely come across a designer who possesses as much drive to want to learn and just be better -- to constantly want to improve. Ton is always a pillar of reliability, especially when projects or work streams pivot (as they will do from time to time) and we need to adjust focus, he is there ready to own it.
Rey Latham, projekt202 – Sr. Experience Director
Ton is an amazing designer. He is able to live in both the visual and interactive design spaces, moving his work seamlessly between the two disciplines. He’s incredibly passionate about his work, and his personality allows him to positively interact with both peers and customers. He’s a great designer, the kind of person I’d trust at my own startup.
Eric Klein – Sr. Director/Entrepreneur/Investor
I’ve had the privilege to collaborate with Ton on several Google Dynamic Ads projects. He was the lead developer on high-profile advertising campaigns and innovation formats. These projects were responsible for driving millions of dollars in revenue. Ton is very professional, and a great teammate. I highly recommend Ton as a designer and developer.
Mike Lee – Google – Engagement Manager
Ton is an extremely talented, seasoned, and articulate UX/UI designer. Ton has proven his ability to quickly come up to speed on extremely technical and niche use cases and always finds ways to add value to any design through his insightful design esthetics, inquisitive nature, and problem-solving skills. Ton is the best UX/UI designer I’ve worked with in my career. Any organization will benefit from a partnership with Ton.
Clint Gossett, Verifone – Director
Ton is ridiculously amazing at creating dynamic ads and has saved my ass on many occasions for top-tier clients like Tmobile and Toyota. Not only can he turn projects around in a blink of an eye, his coding is also intricate, sophisticated, and efficient. It is a pleasure working with Ton and I know this guy is destined for greatness!
Allen Allaman – Google – Engagement Manager
Let's Connect!
Got a question, an idea, or just want to say hi?
Go ahead and drop me a line, I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
- Email: tonhanchai@gmail.com