Production ready Unreal Engine UI experience

Background & Goal

In a groundbreaking initiative, Lynk & Co set out to deliver the world’s first fully 3D Human-Machine Interface (HMI) system for a car, leveraging the Unreal Engine. This strategic partnership involved EcarX, Meizu, and Lynk & Co, marking a major step into uncharted technological territory.

The goal was to create the world’s first fully 3D HMI system for a car, leveraging Unreal Engine technology to deliver an innovative and immersive user experience in collaboration with EcarX and Meizu.

My role & Responsibilities

Project Leader, focused on managing timelines, external communication, and strategic collaboration with multiple new stakeholders.

Oversaw project delivery, ensuring alignment between stakeholders and the technical team.
Managed external communication and collaboration between Lynk & Co, EcarX, and Meizu.
Facilitated the integration of a full-stack Unreal Engine development team, coordinating with UX and UI designers.
Traveled to China multiple times to ensure project alignment and build relationships with new partners.
Mitigated challenges related to political dynamics, stakeholder interests, and a high-pressure timeline.

Challenges & solutions

The project was behind schedule, with stakeholders losing confidence.
→ Restructured the project plan, introduced clearer timelines, and implemented regular progress updates to rebuild trust.
Managing expectations across three new partners with no prior relationships.
→ Built strong communication channels, traveled for face-to-face meetings, and fostered mutual understanding and collaboration.
Navigating a steep learning curve in a new tech area (Unreal Engine and 3D systems).
→ Collaborated closely with technical artists and Unreal developers to understand the complexities and ensure efficient project management.
Balancing high stakes and tight deadlines under intense pressure.
→ Maintained focus on clear deliverables and frequent stakeholder communication to keep progress on track.

Tools, Techniques, and Methodologies

Project Management Tools: Jira, Excel, PowerPoint.
Communication Tools: Teams, WeChat (for cross-regional collaboration).
Methodologies: Agile project management, stakeholder alignment strategies, and cross-cultural collaboration.

Key Achievements

Delivered Lynk & Co’s part of the project despite the challenging scope and timeline.
Built and coordinated a full-stack Unreal Engine development team, integrating it with existing UX and UI design teams.
Rebuilt stakeholder confidence through transparent communication and timely deliverables.
Established collaboration frameworks with EcarX and Meizu, laying the foundation for future partnerships.
Successfully navigated one of the most intense and high-pressure projects, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.

Lessons learned

Personal Growth
Developed skills in managing high-stakes projects with complex stakeholder dynamics and steep technical learning curves.

Team Insights

Learned the importance of integrating technical teams (e.g., Unreal developers) with design teams to streamline collaboration.

Future Applications

Gained insights into managing cross-regional partnerships, handling political dynamics, and leading in uncharted technical areas.

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