Kern Unit was founded in 2022 to bring expert, human-centred UX design to teams that need clarity, momentum, and meaningful change. After 20 years of solving complex design challenges across startups, agencies, and enterprises, we saw a need for UX support that’s both strategic and practical.

We created Kern Unit to fill that gap—helping organizations deliver better experiences, make smarter decisions, and grow with purpose. Whether you’re launching something new or rethinking what’s already there, we’re here to help you build it better.

Our Core Values

Clarity over complexity

We believe the best experiences are the ones that feel effortless—where users don’t have to think twice. By stripping away unnecessary friction and focusing on what truly matters, we help teams communicate, operate, and grow with confidence.

Accessibility by default

Inclusive design leads to clearer interfaces, more intuitive interactions, and a broader reach for your product or service. When we make things easier for people with disabilities, we make them better for everyone. It reduces barriers, increases usability, and lowers the cost of retrofitting later.

Collaboration makes everything stronger

The best design happens when teams work together—sharing ideas, feedback, and expertise. We partner closely with clients and stakeholders to build smarter, more effective solutions—because better outcomes start with better teamwork.

Our Process

We love to work collaboratively, and iteratively. Iterate early, and often, that is the key to success. We start by gathering as much information and research as possible, then we propose achievable solutions for you. We only move forward into execution once we have iterated the solution into a refined and well-understood by all stakeholders. 

Learn more about our UX process

Testimonials

We have never seen such dedication from a contractor on a project like what Kern Unit brought to the table. Their willingness to review all available documentation, meet one-on-one with different individuals, and bring solutions that actually solve the real issues at hand cannot be understated. Their work fundamentally changed the direction of our project in ways we could never have predicted, and we are grateful for their work ethic and commitment to our open source project for the betterment of the science community.

Government of Canada

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Science Projects and Applications Division, Information Systems Branch

Kern Unit has been a major contributor to the success of our team. Brought into the project partway through, the company quickly ramped up by learning the ins and outs of our application, understanding our user base, and navigating our stakeholder landscape. This was accomplished in record time. Kern Unit’s ability to grasp the project’s complexities and identify meaningful areas for improvement proved incredibly valuable. They demonstrated a clear understanding of our tight timelines and consistently presented a range of solutions—balancing quick fixes with more sustainable, long-term options. Regardless of the approach selected, their recommendations were always thoughtful, grounded in UX best practices, and visually polished.

Government of Canada

Transport Canada

Marine Application Development, Marine / Aviation / Agile Centre of Excellence (MAACE)

Want to transform your business with smarter, better user experiences? We’re ready when you are. When you partner with Kern Unit, you’re not just getting ideas—you’re getting solutions that work.