PLOTTERs are active in a variety of worlds, and their energy is full of creativity. PLOTTER Magazine highlights change-makers who trace their steps from the past to the present and lead the future in a positive direction. Through their ideas and values, we hope that the stories of PLOTTER, like the tools we create, will inspire your creativity.

Creative Thinking as a Solutions Architect

Meet Lindsey Westergaard, a dynamic professional thriving in the role of a solutions architect, who also harbors a passion for planning and organization. Affectionately dubbed “the planner girl” at her workplace, Lindsey embodies the harmonious fusion of traditional planning methods and the digital advancements that define the professional world today. Recently, she shared her enriching experience using her PLOTTER leather binder, an indispensable tool that has integrated into her daily activities.

The role of a solutions architect is fascinating and multifaceted but varies between companies and different fields. At Lindsey’s workplace, a solutions architect requires a thorough understanding of the company’s business computer system and the ability to ensure that every technical component syncs perfectly to provide a robust, scalable solution that caters to the corporation’s needs in its entirety. Lindsey excels in her role, skillfully minimizing ‘tech debt’ (also known as “bad code”) and ensuring the systems created remain flexible and adaptable to meet the ever-evolving demands of the business.

 “As a solutions architect, I work hand in hand with business analysts to comprehend the requirements in depth. I guide the teams, choose the most suitable software, and empower them to bring their unique expertise to the table.”

Lindsey’s role is a dynamic blend of technical proficiency and project management skills, constantly challenging her to fulfill multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

Taking a Non-Linear Path

Interestingly, Lindsey’s journey towards becoming a successful solutions architect was not a linear one. She kickstarted her career as an electrical engineer in a conventional industrial role. Over time, her innate ability to troubleshoot issues and lead projects steered her toward her current role. This transition coincided with her interest in organization and planning, leading her on a quest to find the ideal tools to assist her in her daily tasks.

PLOTTER as a Planner

During her search for an ideal planning tool, Lindsey sought something practical, versatile, and light. Her quest for a travel planner ended when she encountered PLOTTER through videos on social media. The minimalistic and sleek design of PLOTTER leather binders instantly appealed to her, and she decided to integrate it into her planning routine.

Much of Lindsey’s work is digital, utilizing a range of business tools. Her team develops code that allows non-technical people to interact with their businesses’ technical processes, also empowering them to provide feedback. Given that her teammates are spread across the country and even in other countries, tracking work items and project management digitally is essential for collaborative work. However, Lindsey also relies heavily on analog tools to help her with her tasks. She often receives direct outreach from coworkers and people outside of the organization and she notes these down on paper. This practice aids her in prioritizing tasks, recognizing that the most urgent task may not always be the most important. By having her tasks written down, Lindsey can assess her top three priorities at the start of each day.

For Lindsey, the Bible Size PLOTTER Leather binder integrated seamlessly into her pre-existing planning landscape. Its slim design made it an excellent companion during her work-related travels.

“PLOTTER is lightweight, so when I’m going from meeting to meeting, it isn’t cumbersome to carry with me.”

Since PLOTTER Leather Binders lie flat and open without the need for clips or elastics, it is easy to write in, even at locations where she has to hold and write in her planner on her lap.  As a fountain pen user and enthusiast, Lindsey also shared that the 2mm Grid Paper Refill Memo Pad is her favorite refill due to its compatibility with her fountain pens and inks.

Who do you think PLOTTER is for?

“If you are a creative individual who craves flexibility, yet desires something focused, minimal, and sleek, PLOTTER is the product for you. It’s perfect for the creative minimalist or even someone who feels overwhelmed and wants to focus on what’s truly important.”

At PLOTTER USA, we are inspired by how Lindsey has seamlessly woven her PLOTTER Leather Binder into her professional routine. We hope to share how other users, like Lindsey, are shaping and changing their professional landscape with their expertise and their PLOTTER. To explore our diverse range of products and learn more about other users’ PLOTTER journeys, we invite you to read our other user interviews on PLOTTER Magazine.

Draw Today, Shape Tomorrow.

[ Lindsey Westergaard, Solutions Architect ]

Lindsey Westergaard is a Solutions Architect known for her love of analog planning, journaling, and creativity. When she isn’t managing her high-level tasks as a Solutions Architect, she can be found getting creative with her planning spreads and various art creations on her YouTube Channel (@lindseyscribbles).