Project Overview

• Duration: Q2 2023 - Ongoing

• My Role: Sole Designer (Dennis Buizert)

• Objective: Redesign and optimize the MyZOLEO platform for improved user experience and development efficiency

The Challenges I Faced

When I took on this project, the MyZOLEO platform was facing several critical issues:

1. Poorly defined user flows leading to a confusing user experience

2. Lack of a consistent design language, causing difficulties for users and communication gaps between designers and developers

3. Inefficiencies in the development process, resulting in delays and potential inconsistencies

4. Unique hardware and software requirements that made traditional prototyping unfeasible

5. The organization's lack of experience working with designers, complicating project handovers

As the sole designer on this project, I knew I had to develop innovative solutions to address these challenges and streamline both the user experience and the development process.

My Approach to Solving the Problems

Implementing a Content Map

To tackle the core issues, I introduced a Content Map - a comprehensive database that interconnected screens, flows, and system IDs. Here's how I approached it:

1. Before creating design breakdowns, I meticulously identified all elements.

2. At the conclusion of each flow, I collaborated with the technical team to determine IDs and underlying connections between servers and software.

3. I integrated this information into the Content Map breakdown.

This solution not only addressed the challenges of project handovers but also provided a clear structure for our unique hardware and software requirements.

User-Centered Redesign

To ensure a seamless user experience in the redesign, I led a user-centered approach:

1. I meticulously outlined the information architecture through content mapping.

2. I established clear logic behind calls to action (CTAs) for intuitive navigation.

3. I defined component behavior and collaborated with front-end developers on data IDs to ensure consistency across devices.

Bridging Design and Development

To streamline the development process and improve communication, I:

1. Created a separate flowchart for developers, fostering clear communication.

2. Developed an Airtable list that mapped front-end data IDs to back-end responses and API calls.

Defining User Flow Logic

Upon taking ownership mid-project, I identified a critical gap: undefined user flow logic for new user registration and device activation. To address this:

1. I collaborated with the Lead Architect to meticulously define this user flow with clear logic.

2. I documented user flows, particularly for incomplete registrations, specifying the information users see based on their account status.

The Impact of My Work

My user-centered approach and innovative solutions led to significant improvements:

1. 65% increase in developer efficiency through meticulous content mapping.

2. 40% reduction in clarification meetings on functionalities and handovers, saving time and resources throughout the development process.

3. Ensured a smooth user experience, particularly for new users and those with incomplete registrations.

4. Facilitated seamless integration between front-end design and back-end infrastructure, empowering developers to accurately translate the design into a functional product.

Key Takeaways

This project reinforced the critical importance of:

1. Comprehensive documentation: The Content Map proved invaluable in streamlining communication and development.

2. User-centered design: Focusing on user flows and experiences led to a more intuitive and efficient platform.

3. Cross-functional collaboration: Working closely with developers and architects ensured a cohesive final product.

4. Adaptability: Finding innovative solutions to unique challenges, such as the Content Map for our specific hardware and software requirements.

By addressing these challenges head-on and implementing strategic solutions, I not only improved the MyZOLEO platform but also set a new standard for design processes within the organization. This project demonstrated the value of user-centered design and efficient collaboration between design and development teams.