Niclas Ernst

Zero-to-one Designer. Designing and shipping software in close collaboration with early-stage startups.

Niclas Ernst is a software designer and entrepreneur based in Berlin, Germany.1 4 He is the founder of Permanent, a design consultancy that helps startups build lasting software products.1 Previously, he was the founder of Polygon, a startup studio for early-stage startups, which was acquired by Pipe in 2022.2 3

Ernst has an extensive background in design and software development:

He started his design journey at a young age, learning Photoshop and various design skills as a teenager.2
By age 16, he was already working on significant projects, including designing an internal iOS app for Coca-Cola sales representatives.2
He has led design at several notable companies, including Pipe, V7 Labs, Attio, and Air Space Intelligence.3 5

Throughout his career, Ernst has worked with various startups and companies, helping them develop their products from concept to launch. He specializes in owning the entire design process for early-stage startups, acting as a sparring partner for CEOs and CPOs.2

Ernst is known for his ability to quickly prototype core features of software products and establish basic design systems. He emphasizes the importance of practical experience and continuous learning in the ever-evolving field of design.2

As of January 2025, Niclas Ernst continues to work as a software designer and founder of Permanent, focusing on helping startups build successful software products through design.1 4

Highlights

Apr 20 · twitter

When someone says “We want it to be like XYZ” (usually Linear, Stripe, Attio, the likes), your job as a designer is to understand what it is that they want.

Usually they want the same level of refinement and quality, not a copy. This is also how you sort the sheep from the goats.

Jan 1 · dandad.org

Niclas Ernst | Germany | D&AD Member Profile

Dec 1 · twitter

Ending the year with the team in Marrakesh. https://t.co/RvSbjJSMBX

Jan 1 · n16t.com

Niclas Ernst