When Designers Start Shipping Real Code: Emmet Connolly from Intercom

What happens when designers don’t just design — but actually start shipping real code? In this insightful talk, Emmet Connolly, SVP of Design at Intercom, explores how design and engineering are converging in the age of AI and automation. From the hype cycle to real-world product impact, Emmet breaks down what it means for design teams when creativity meets technical execution. Watch to learn: • Why “designing with code” changes everything • How AI tools are reshaping design workflows • What Intercom learned from building with AI in real products • Why every designer needs to understand engineering now Timestamps: 00:00 Intro: The AI movie begins 01:20 Design meets engineering 03:45 The hype vs the signal 05:10 What AI means for designers 07:30 Building real products with AI 09:00 The future of creative work 💬 What do you think — should designers code? 🔔 Subscribe for more talks on design, AI, and creative technology