Web-based Tool Kit for SW Release

Project Overview

Context

The Web-based Tool Kit for SW Release is perceived as overly complex, difficult to navigate, and time-consuming for users. Despite its potential value as a central source for deal details and artifacts, its poor information architecture (IA) and frustrating user experience (UX) prevent it from meeting user expectations. Additionally, the training content is difficult to find, contributing to low user engagement and negative feedback.

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The goal of this project is to enhance the information architecture of the site, making training materials more accessible and improving overall usability.

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Objective

Redesign the IA of the Web-based Tool Kit for SW Release site with a focus on the training section, ensuring content is easy to locate and navigate. Deliver a UX recommendations document outlining improvements, without implementing direct changes.

Problem Statement

The Web-based Tool Kit for SW Release site’s training section is difficult to navigate, making it hard for users to find essential learning resources. A redesigned information architecture is required to simplify navigation, improve content discoverability, and enhance the user experience.

Design Process

Journey Mapping

• Created as-is and to-be journey maps for each user experience scenario based on current and new users as well as their starting point in accessing a web-based portal.

Wireframing

• Created site map variations to explore improved IA structures.
• Designed mid-fidelity wireframes for new navigation layouts.
• Iteratively refined recommendations based on stakeholder feedback.

Key Design Principles

• Discoverability: Ensure training content is clearly categorized and accessible.
• Efficiency: Reduce clicks needed to access key materials.
• User-Centered Design: Align IA with users’ mental models.

Design Solutions

Proposed Information Architecture (IA) Improvements

1. ‍Clearer Content Categorization
   • ‍Organize training materials into intuitive sections based on user needs.
   • Implement consistent naming conventions for easier recognition.‍
2. Enhanced Navigation‍
   • Introduce a persistent, structured menu for quick access to training content.
   • Implement search functionality to improve content discovery.‍
3. Improved Layout & Content Visibility‍
   • Highlight most frequently accessed training materials on the homepage.
   • Reduce clutter by streamlining the number of clicks to key content.‍
4. Recommendations for Future Content Updates‍
   • Suggested content revisions in collaboration with a writer to improve clarity and engagement.
   • Proposed user onboarding improvements to guide new users through training materials.

Implementation

• Delivered a UX Recommendations Document with IA redesign proposals.
• Conducted a stakeholder review to ensure alignment with business goals.
• Provided wireframes and sitemaps to guide potential future development.

Results & Impact

Expected Outcomes

• ‍Faster access to training materials, reducing user frustration.‍
• Increased engagement with training content, leading to improved user proficiency.‍
• Improved NPS scores, reflecting a more positive user experience.‍
• More intuitive navigation, reducing support inquiries about locating training materials.

Key Learnings

• Clear navigation is critical: Users need structured, predictable access to key resources.
• Content organization matters: Categorization must align with user expectations.
• Incremental improvements drive adoption: Even small IA changes significantly enhance usability.

The design artifacts represented is a conceptual example and does not represent the official designs created for the company. It is intended for illustrative purposes only and should not be interpreted as an official or final design.