What's Happening?
Melody Koh, a product designer with nearly a decade of experience in the tech industry, is contemplating leaving the field due to its current instability. Koh's career began with freelance work for startups, eventually leading to roles in various tech companies, including those focused on crypto and fintech. However, since 2021, Koh has faced multiple layoffs, most recently from an EdTech company in May 2025. Koh attributes the industry's downturn to increased layoffs and a shift towards efficiency, which has resulted in less rewarding work environments. Despite her extensive experience, Koh finds the current job market challenging, with talent saturation making it difficult to secure new roles.
AD
Why It's Important?
The challenges faced by Koh reflect broader trends in the tech industry, where layoffs and efficiency drives are becoming more common. This shift impacts not only individual careers but also the industry's ability to innovate and retain talent. As companies prioritize efficiency, employees may experience reduced job security and fewer rewards, potentially leading to a talent drain as skilled workers seek opportunities in more stable sectors. This could have long-term implications for the tech industry's growth and its role in driving economic innovation.
What's Next?
Koh is considering a pivot away from digital design to focus on physical product design, indicating a potential shift in career paths for tech professionals seeking stability. As the industry continues to evolve, companies may need to reassess their strategies to retain talent and foster innovation. Stakeholders, including tech companies and policymakers, may need to address the underlying causes of industry instability to prevent further talent loss and ensure sustainable growth.
Beyond the Headlines
The current state of the tech industry raises questions about the balance between efficiency and employee well-being. As companies streamline operations, the impact on workplace culture and employee satisfaction becomes increasingly significant. This situation highlights the need for ethical considerations in corporate decision-making, particularly regarding layoffs and employee treatment.
