Retail Planogram App (redesign)
CompanyX
Overview
The planogram software is a tool designed to streamline store layout management by offering an intuitive platform for organizing product placements. It bridges the gap between corporate guidelines and in-store realities. Drawing from my experiences in retail, the software aims to simplify the planning process for store associates. By observing how coworkers used the old method, the software incorporates features that prioritize ease of use and operational efficiency.
Team
Sole Designer
Responsibilities
User Research
Wireframing/Prototyping
UX/UI Design
Usability Testing
Duration
June 2022 - July 2024
Problem
The current workflow is hindered by redundant steps, outdated department layouts, unnecessary paper usage, and a poorly designed user flow hidden within the company's internal website. These inefficiencies obstruct productivity, create frustration, and diminish the overall ease of use for retail associates.
Solution
I developed a personalized mental health app that adapts to users' unique emotional needs, complements professional care, and provides intuitive tools for both daily self-care and moments of crisis.
Design Process
After identifying the gaps in current mental health apps, I designed an application guided by user-centered design principles and created a low-fidelity prototype. I conducted user testing with five participants, incorporating their feedback to refine the design and ensure it addressed diverse mental health needs effectively. This iterative process led to the development of a high-fidelity prototype tailored to user preferences and behaviors.
Process Insights
To better understand the existing workflow, I conducted observational research, noting how associates interacted with the old process. This allowed me to identify pain points and opportunities for improvement based on real-world behaviors.
Competitive Analysis
To better understand the current landscape, I researched top planogram apps used by leading companies. While these apps were indirect competitors, they offered valuable insights into industry standards and innovative features. This exploration broadened my perspective on potential approaches and possibilities.
Design System
The design system for the planogram app was built using Google’s Material Design principles, focusing on cohesive components and interactions. This approach ensured a visually consistent, accessible, and user-friendly experience for both corporate and retail users.
How Might We
By observing associates navigate the old workflow, I identified key pain points and inefficiencies in their process. Applying the "How Might We" method, I transformed these challenges into actionable design opportunities, paving the way for solutions that streamline tasks and improve overall efficiency.
User Flow
Due to the deep interwoven complexity of the project, I created a user flow to ensure every interaction was properly mapped and prototyped. This process allowed me to refine the structure, confirm feasibility, and maintain a cohesive experience.
Low-Fidelity Prototype
I created a low-fidelity prototype to pinpoint the core screens that would anchor the design. This helped establish the main user flows early on, ensuring a solid framework to refine interactions and gather meaningful feedback.
Usability Study
I conducted a usability study with testers who had prior or current retail experience to ensure the feedback was relevant to real-world workflows. The study included multiple testing rounds, focusing on how users interacted with key features and tasks within the app. This allowed me to identify pain points and refine the user experience based on practical insights from retail professionals.
Design Iteration
Design iterations for the planogram app were guided by tester feedback and a deeper understanding of optimal app layout. By refining the interface based on real-world usage, I realigned the design to better support retail workflows. This approach culminated in a more efficient and user-centric tool that streamlines in-store operations.
To address user confusion regarding hidden related products and a cumbersome click-and-drop feature, the design was iterated to integrate product cards directly onto the virtual shelf. A clarifying dialog box was added, and a hover-and-tap mechanism streamlined the product placement process, improving overall usability.
The previous design's uniform keylines for app icon placeholders led to user confusion during testing. To resolve this, distinct icons were implemented, clearly representing each app's function and improving tap accuracy. This change enhances the user's ability to quickly identify and select the desired application.
User confusion arose from the 'chat' icon, which was intended for notifications but did not align with user expectations for task and deadline notifications. To address this, the icon was replaced with a calendar icon, aligning with user expectations for deadline-related notifications. Additionally, dot indicators were added to notification boxes to clearly differentiate read and unread items, enhancing visual clarity.
Final Design
Accessibility Considerations
color vision deficiency: The app employs a high-contrast color palette to differentiate departments effectively. The design considers common color vision deficiencies, such as red-green and blue-yellow, by using distinct colors, patterns, and labels. This ensures an accessible and intuitive experience for all users.
Landmarks: Our app leverages familiar structural landmarks to create an intuitive user experience. By mirroring layouts users frequently encounter, navigation feels natural and effortless. This approach reduces the learning curve and enhances usability.
Dialog boxes: Our app utilizes intuitive dialog overlays that align with platform standards, ensuring a seamless experience. By using familiar interactions, users can quickly understand and respond to prompts without unnecessary friction. This approach enhances efficiency and accessibility.
What I Learned
This project reinforced the importance of designing for a diverse range of users, from management to temporary staff. I learned that balancing simplicity with functionality is crucial to ensuring accessibility across different skill levels. Great design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making technology intuitive and effortless for everyone.