I retained users on
a data platform
and ensure
the safety
of internal data
Client: DIT
Industry: Public service
My Role: Product Designer
DIT's data platform enables internal data sharing and management. While data-savvy users handled
it well, less tech-savvy users downloaded data and created
a security risk.
the brief
Development brief
I was hired to boost user retention and enhance data security by addressing friction points. I also improved the internal toolbox with quick-win features to enhance the user experience. Given the organisation's nature, I followed the GDS framework.
the challenge
The challenge
The product was complex, so I had to quickly understand the data
and platform. The team was mostly developers, data engineers, and data scientists. I worked to improve their understanding behaviours and needs
of users. The delivery team was cautious about incremental design. They feared it could lead to a major overhaul they lacked resources for.
the process
The process
I developed a reusable strategy and processes for future projects and maintenance with a UCD process. With no initial analytics, I prioritised research to gather essential data. I also established a collaborative process to reduce friction and educated the product team, as this was their first digital product.
the research
I talked with users
User research have been an important part of the process. I already had an access to analytics. Granularity was lacking about the usability and awareness of the user about the platform. I used research to prioritise the features and improve the acceptance of the platform.
stand-ups
for collab
The projects required an Agile environment. During stand ups, I often did a quick show-and-tell sessions to speed up the process. There was no need for sign-offs. It allowed me to hand over designs directly to developers.
incrementaldesign
DIT wanted incremental design. I validated solutions with real users every sprint. I had direct access to a diverse user pool.
I focused on developing components rather than templates, using research insights to shape the design.
Success and learning
I measured a significant increase in user engagement! On average, users spent 6 minutes longer on the platform, and there was a 25% increase in users accessing our main tools. Click rates also rose.
I learned to use the Agile environment to my advantage. By "show and tell" during stand-ups, I ensured the design was aligned with project goals.
