BACKGROUND

UncommonGood is an end-to-end business solution and productivity platform for Small Businesses, Solopreneurs, Freelancers, and Nonprofits.

For a two week sprint, my focus was to enhance the usability of the freelancer and client dashboard. By updating filter designs, introducing advanced and custom filters and updating navigation hierarchy I was able to achieve a more intuitive and seamless experience.

problem & how I solved it

Challenge

Reimagine the dashboard to provide a more intuitive and user-friendly experience, focusing specifically on improving the advanced filter system, which users found overly complex and difficult to navigate. The existing filter structure, referred to as "segments," lacked clarity and created friction in the workflow. Users struggled to locate and apply the filters they needed, leading to inefficiencies and frustration.

The challenge required rethinking the entire filtering experience to eliminate confusion, reduce cognitive load, and create a seamless interaction that catered to diverse user needs.

Saas dashboard with advanced filter settings.

Solution

I incorporated predictive search into the global navigation, replacing the individual search bars across the site’s sections. Additionally, I added a dedicated search-to-filter feature to streamline the user experience, addressing a key pain point identified in the filter section, previously labeled as ‘segments.’

Based on user research and feedback, I also introduced the option to create custom filters, enhancing usability and establishing a clear visual hierarchy for better navigation

RESEARCH & DISCOVERY

Instead of traditional user research, we adopted a lean model and conducted a thorough competitive analysis.

We analyzed successful dashboard trends from industry leaders such as GitHub and Gusto. This analysis provided insights into effective filter designs and user-friendly dashboard layouts.

Key Takeaways

1. The search function in GitHub was efficient and easy to use.
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2. Gusto's dashboard was organized and intuitive.

DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT

The wireframes were created using the existing design system, which was updated based on evolving designs and current needs.

We introduced updated icons and desktop hover actions to match a more modern, minimalist look, aiming to reduce cognitive strain for users.

Challenge:

Ensuring the advanced filters were both comprehensive and user-friendly across different devices.

Collaborative efforts between designers and developers ensured that motion designs and interactive elements were optimized for usability.

testing & validation

Usability Testing Plans:

Although the company lost funding before usability testing could be conducted, we had extensive plans for validating our design enhancements.

• User Testing: Using a diverse group of users, the test would involve a task-based activity to observe how users interact with the new design.

• A/B Testing: Release different versions of the advanced filters to determine which design variations provided the best user experience.

• Surveys and Feedback: Post-testing surveys and feedback forms were to be distributed to gather qualitative insights on the user experience.

Anticipated Key Findings:

• Ease of Use: We expected to validate that the updated filters and minimalist design reduced cognitive strain, making the dashboard easier to navigate.

• Efficiency: Testing would have likely shown an increase in user efficiency when performing tasks such as updating, adding, and editing filters.

• Satisfaction: We anticipated positive feedback regarding the modern look and feel of the dashboard, as well as the seamless interaction across web and mobile platforms.

CONCLUSION & REFLECTION

Despite the project being halted due to funding issues, the designs we created were something to be proud of.

These designs had the potential to significantly assist small business owners and entrepreneurs by providing an intuitive and efficient way to navigate complex systems such as invoices, billing, client communication, and project management.

The updated filter designs and dashboard enhancements aimed to simplify these processes, making it easier for users to manage their tasks effectively.

WELCOME

Software for Freelancers, Solopreneurs, Small Businesses and Nonprofits

OVERVIEW