Digital SHEro Maria – Why she chose IT and valantic 18 years ago

“Do everything you can to feel confident and then you will succeed.”

Torn between a career in music or media design, Maria chose the latter 18 years ago. Through her dual studies, she joined valantic and she has now been advising her clients on a wide range of projects in the field of customer experience for 18 years. Maria never had any concerns about entering the male-dominated IT world because her motto is: “Do everything you can to feel confident and then you will succeed.”

Maria, you are a valantic veteran. In which area are you active and what are your responsibilities?

I have actually been working at valantic for 18 years in the field of customer experience. We implement e-commerce platforms and digitalization projects in both the B2B and B2C sectors. My focus is to advise our customers on the user interfaces of their online shops. It’s all about everything — from the underlying technology and design to interaction and visual elements to ensure the best customer experience.

Why did you choose to go into IT?

When I finished school, I would have liked to study music with a major in violin. But I realized even then that I might not be good enough for that. Then I chose a dual course of study in media design, which offered me the perfect mix of programming and design. Even in school I was interested in web development, and I wrote HTML for companies and used my graphic design skills to design flyers. During my studies, I also came to valantic, where I was able to specialize in web development and learn while helping with real projects. But music is still my hobby with orchestra and choir!

Media design sounds like a creative course of study. How do things digital and design fit together for you?

I am more of a digital person, and I even stopped taking art in school, which set me apart in my course of study. I see design in connection with functionality. When it comes to an online shop, it must not just look good, it must do what you need it to. Only then is it a good design. So, it is not the artistic aspect that interests me. For me, design must always be practical.

At the moment, everyone is talking about AI. How does this technology affect your projects?

Artificial intelligence is also a major issue for us right now. We are currently experimenting with different proofs of concept; that is, how AI can be used in online shops. Recently, for example, I built a demo for an AI consultant. It can interpret user requests in the online shop and guide them to the desired information or products.

How do you and your team members help each other familiarize yourselves with new topics like this?

Since the introduction of technologies such as ChatGPT, we have started actively thinking about how we can integrate them into our processes to become more efficient. Personally, I always enjoy trying out new things when I think they really make sense. And that’s why it was just great for me to try out something new, especially something that will allow you to achieve success really quickly. We support each other as a team and regularly present results, new tools, tips, and experiences.

You work in consulting. What industries do your customers come from?

Our practice is very diverse. From the fashion industry to bicycle construction, to mechanical engineering and home appliance manufacturers, there’s a little of everything. However, digitalization is increasing, especially in the B2B sector, where people expect good applications and automated processes.

Are there differences in the consulting approaches for different industries?

Each industry has its unique characteristics, and every customer relationship is different. The challenge is to adapt constantly to customers’ specific needs and characteristics. In general, however, I think there are greater differences between individual customers rather than between industries.

You have been with valantic since you were a student. How are and have you been supported in your professional development here?

In principle, I have gone through every stage at valantic: From student, to junior, intermediate, to senior, to architect. I was lucky enough to be able to really develop here as it suited me. I could always do what I enjoyed and what I was good at or learned to be good at. At valantic, I was always encouraged and had the opportunity to develop continuously.

Is there a particularly successful moment in your career that you would like to highlight?

One highlight was the development of a complex 3D configurator for a customer. We really got down into the weeds on this topic and approached it bravely. The customer trusted us – that was great. It was a great success, and it still is today. The project challenged us, but also taught us a lot technically. Even today, this experience helps us to acquire new projects.

What unforgettable team events do you remember from the past 18 years?

Our AIDA trip from Oslo to Kiel via Copenhagen was definitely fantastic. We did this on the occasion of an anniversary. It was just great to spend a few days on the ship with our team of 40-50 people. There was also a trip on the IJsselmeer and a Christmas party on the Rhine – we seem to like boat trips.

How do you assess the role of women in IT? Were you ever concerned about entering this industry?

No, I never had any concerns. Even during my school years, I worked at my father’s company installing printed circuit boards. This was also more of a male-dominated profession, so it helped me enter the IT industry without prejudice.

What would you advise other women who are considering taking the step into IT?

It is important that you are interested in what you do professionally, otherwise you will not have fun and succeed in the long term. Just try to be good at what you’re doing. Inform yourself, acquire knowledge, and familiarize yourself with what’s going on. If you can do your thing, nothing can stop you. And don’t be afraid of failure!

So, what is your slogan as a digital SHEro?

“Do everything you can to feel confident and then you will succeed.”

Maria, thank you for your time and the exciting insights into your career!