#Japan #Tokyo #AI Design #Shusaku Umemoto #Ajike

Transforming Design Processes with AI

On August 24, 2026, Shusaku Umemoto, CEO of Ajike, will release his highly anticipated book, AIを味方にする デザインワークフロー実践ガイド (Practical Guide to Design Workflows with AI), published by Mynavi Publishing. This book aims to fill the gap in transforming AI's potential into actionable strategies for user understanding and quality assessment in design processes. Alongside the book launch, Ajike will host a real-world event in Fukuoka, Tenjin, on September 16, 2026, inviting professionals involved in product and service development to explore AI’s role in their workflows.

Key Highlights

The advent of generative AI has dramatically shortened the time required for design iteration. However, many teams have not fully integrated these changes into their processes, often remaining in the preliminary trial phase of using AI tools. Umemoto's book is an essential resource designed to aid teams in overcoming this stagnation by providing tested methodologies to quickly prototype, validate, and implement designs.

By investing the time saved through AI into understanding users and assessing quality, Ajike believes that organizations can unlock tremendous value. This book articulates that vision by detailing collaborative workflows that leverage AI effectively. It moves beyond simply teaching how to use AI tools, instead focusing on creating rapid cycles of prototyping, validation, and implementation, all supported by real-world case studies.

Behind the Book

The essence of this book lies in Umemoto's philosophy that while AI can accelerate the process, it’s crucial to consider the purpose for this efficiency. As prototype creation speeds up, the range of alternatives increases, which raises the stakes for decision-making around what to create and at what quality level. To navigate these complexities, decision-makers need a thorough understanding of business context, user insights, and sound design principles. This shift is redefining the role of design firms like Ajike, who have been dedicated to service design and UI/UX improvement since their inception in 2007.

About the Author

Shusaku Umemoto is not only an entrepreneur but also a thought leader who has been at the forefront of design innovation by integrating AI into workflows. His insights are grounded in years of practical experience, making this book not just theoretical but also a tool for immediate application for those in the field of design and product development.

Event Announcement

To further engage with the concepts discussed in the book, Ajike will be hosting a free live event in Fukuoka on September 16, 2026, from 19:00 to 20:30 at the ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. SKYLOBBY SQUARE. The event will feature lightning talks followed by a Q&A session, providing attendees an opportunity to delve deeper into how businesses can leverage AI to enhance human judgment in their development processes.

About Ajike

Ajike, a group company of Members, has been dedicated to designing enriching experiences since its establishment in 2007. With a mission to enhance user experiences through thoughtful design, Ajike provides services that range from UX/UI design consulting to service development and product enhancement. Their approach marries cutting-edge technology with user-centered design, ensuring that businesses not only keep pace with innovation but lead in it.

For more information about the book, author events, or Ajike's services, visit their official website or check the book's dedicated website.