Design Researcher, Strategist and Visual Storyteller

A multifaceted approach, from understanding customers to organizing information that enhances acceptance, usability, and impact.

Empower Growth with Human-Centered Design Research

Services

Three women sitting on folding chairs in a park, engaged in conversation.

Human-Centered Research

By diving deep into the human experience I build an understanding of what people truly need, want and desire. I uncover insights that drive innovation, making products and services more meaningful, relevant, and impactful.

Person giving a presentation in front of a board covered with various colorful sticky notes and comments.

Strategic Planning

Turning insights into action is where the magic happens. I help you align what needs to be learned with your business goals to create strategies that not only resonate but also guide you toward long-term success, and growth, and even more important impact!

Posters displaying various infographic charts and statistics are taped to the windows of a brightly colored office.

Visual Storytelling

Design isn’t just about making something pretty; it’s about clarity and building trust. I transform complex ideas into visual stories that captivate, engage, and drive action—helping your stakeholders feel empowered to move the insights forward and at the same time helping your customers connect with your message.

Design Reseach and Strategy that Stands Out

20+ Years

Experience in Design Research, Strategy, and Corporate Communications

500+ Projects

Consistently exceeding client expectations with tailored, impactful solutions.

Chicago Area

Rooted in Chicago, serving businesses with a local as well as a global focus and perspective.

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I highly recommend Gladys for User Experience Research projects, especially in strategy and complex spaces. She's skilled in foundational and exploratory research, delivering impactful, immersive research insights

—LaDawn, Sr. Design Researcher Meta

Gladys is a committed leader who is exceptional in design, research, and strategy. Energetic, passionate, creative, and pragmatic, she's a lynchpin for any team.

—Aaron, Director of Product at Medical Guardian

Gladys is a talented UX researcher and strategist known for strong leadership, empathy, and impactful research at Meta. An exceptional mentor and community builder.

—Stephanie, UX Research, Google DeepMind

Gladys is a passionate design researcher, a rigorous advocate, and an engaging presenter who drives innovation and delivers top outcomes.

—Cherisse Wagner, Principal at CQubed

Gladys is a professional, creative, and intelligent individual whose expertise in contextual research and information design ensures project success. A pleasure to work with, she fosters teamwork and accountability.

—Mariah Hay, CEO Allboarder

I've known Gladys for 14 years; her talent, drive, and intelligence in design and strategy make her perfect for leadership roles.

—Marilee, SVP Senior Director, Head of Design for Asset Servicing

I hired Gladys and rosa+wesley for educational publishing projects. Exceptional design, organization, and problem-solving under tight deadlines. Highly recommend.

—Susan, Project Director, UIC Innovation Center at University of Illinois at Chicago

I highly recommend Gladys for User Experience Research projects, especially in strategy and complex spaces. She's skilled in foundational and exploratory research, delivering impactful, immersive research insights

—LaDawn, Sr. Design Researcher Meta

Gladys is a committed leader who is exceptional in design, research, and strategy. Energetic, passionate, creative, and pragmatic, she's a lynchpin for any team.

—Aaron, Director of Product at Medical Guardian

Gladys is a talented UX researcher and strategist known for strong leadership, empathy, and impactful research at Meta. An exceptional mentor and community builder.

—Stephanie, UX Research, Google DeepMind

Gladys is a passionate design researcher, a rigorous advocate, and an engaging presenter who drives innovation and delivers top outcomes.

—Cherisse Wagner, Principal at CQubed

Gladys is a professional, creative, and intelligent individual whose expertise in contextual research and information design ensures project success. A pleasure to work with, she fosters teamwork and accountability.

—Mariah Hay, CEO Allboarder

I've known Gladys for 14 years; her talent, drive, and intelligence in design and strategy make her perfect for leadership roles.

—Marilee, SVP Senior Director, Head of Design for Asset Servicing

I hired Gladys and rosa+wesley for educational publishing projects. Exceptional design, organization, and problem-solving under tight deadlines. Highly recommend.

—Susan, Project Director, UIC Innovation Center at University of Illinois at Chicago

I highly recommend Gladys for User Experience Research projects, especially in strategy and complex spaces. She's skilled in foundational and exploratory research, delivering impactful, immersive research insights

—LaDawn, Sr. Design Researcher Meta

Gladys is a committed leader who is exceptional in design, research, and strategy. Energetic, passionate, creative, and pragmatic, she's a lynchpin for any team.

—Aaron, Director of Product at Medical Guardian

Gladys is a talented UX researcher and strategist known for strong leadership, empathy, and impactful research at Meta. An exceptional mentor and community builder.

—Stephanie, UX Research, Google DeepMind

Gladys is a passionate design researcher, a rigorous advocate, and an engaging presenter who drives innovation and delivers top outcomes.

—Cherisse Wagner, Principal at CQubed

Gladys is a professional, creative, and intelligent individual whose expertise in contextual research and information design ensures project success. A pleasure to work with, she fosters teamwork and accountability.

—Mariah Hay, CEO Allboarder

I've known Gladys for 14 years; her talent, drive, and intelligence in design and strategy make her perfect for leadership roles.

—Marilee, SVP Senior Director, Head of Design for Asset Servicing

I hired Gladys and rosa+wesley for educational publishing projects. Exceptional design, organization, and problem-solving under tight deadlines. Highly recommend.

—Susan, Project Director, UIC Innovation Center at University of Illinois at Chicago

About me

I am an ethnographic design researcher, strategist, innovator, and visual communicator dedicated to transforming insights into impactful solutions. I combine the depth of ethnographic research, the creativity of design thinking, and the precision of visual communication to provide a fresh perspective and clear solutions.

My philosophy revolves around deeply understanding people in their natural environments—how they interact with their surroundings, communicate, and make decisions. By immersing myself in their context, I capture the nuances of human behavior that drive meaningful innovation. My approach bridges the gap between raw data and empathetic understanding, ensuring that the strategies I develop address your immediate needs and resonate deeply with your target audience. This unique blend of insights and visual storytelling empowers you to make strategic decisions that stand out and more importantly drive growth.

Trusted by Leading Brands

Leading brands turn to us for innovative design solutions, leveraging our expertise to drive success and create lasting impact.

Get in Touch Today

Connect with me for expert design research, strategy, and visual communication services. Let’s collaborate to drive innovation and create impactful solutions tailored to your needs.

I'm here to help you succeed.