Avatars editor
Parametric editing for a next-gen avatar style — face, body, color systems — across mobile and VR. Validated across five rounds of UXR.
Context
1B+ avatars created. A new avatar style was about to launch — but the existing editor only let users pick from presets. To match the visual jump on the new style, the editor had to grow up too: from preset-picking to real parametric control.
Challenge
- Discrete presets only — no granular control over features
- 15% completion rate on avatar creation
- Diverse body types and facial features underserved
- Below market on customization depth and inclusivity
My role
Led the design of the parametric editor for the new avatar style. The UX that lets users shape faces and bodies with precision — not pick from a menu.
- Defined the macro → micro interaction model (presets → adjustments → fine-tuning)
- Designed slider controls, shape pickers, and the 3D immersive preview
- Built the color customization system — skin tones, hair, lips with proper separation
- Partnered with UXR across 5 research rounds — IA, controls, preferences
- Worked with art and 3D on parametric ranges and representation standards
- Planned the post-launch roadmap: age, complexions, prosthetics, texture layering
Key decisions (validated through UXR)
- Identity-sensitive defaults. No gendered assumptions, inclusive ranges by default.
- Progressive disclosure. Users wanted control but got overwhelmed seeing it all at once.
- Sliders as primary input. Tested across alternatives — preference confirmed, not assumed.
Impact
Shipped the next-gen avatar style launch across mobile and VR with full parametric editing.
Lifted avatar-creation completion past the 15% baseline.
Expanded representation — inclusive body, face, and complexion ranges.
Became the canvas for the next wave of AI editing — Style with AI restyles against this parametric system.
As featured in
Interaction Design
UX Architecture
Inclusive Design
Research Partnership
3D/Spatial UI
Progressive Disclosure
Color Systems