For a software developer there are a number of paths you can go in your career.
- Management, which is further divided into
- People Management
- Project Management
- Top-most level of software engineer/architect. See this relevant discussion
- Breaking off into independent consulting.
- Doing a start-up or small business
- Academia
Based on your question, I think the latter 2 choices might be what you're looking for. It seems you're interested in Human-Computer Interaction, and that is something you can explore in a Master's Degree or PhD.
Otherwise, you're describing a position that dons a few hats: technical/developer skills, design, communication. That type of position you would only find if you joined a startup (where you're oftentimes expected to wear more than one hat) or started your own thing.
I'd recommend the book Quitter. It will "help bridge the gap between your day job and dream job". :)
