The project is protected by a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA); visual designs, links to prototypes, or some crucial parts of it may not be permissible to share publicly.
Overview
Rebranding and transforming the National Bank’s existing ‘Advice Suite’ application into a more user-friendly and intuitive platform for financial advisors. The primary goals were to reduce cognitive load, minimize change management, limit layout changes, and ensure no copyright issues with NBC.
Discovery and Analysis
I conducted a systematic and thorough discovery process to gain a comprehensive understanding of the problem space before transitioning into the design phase. This approach enabled me to create designs that are not only visually appealing but also effectively meet the needs of both users and the business.
UX Audit
Conducted an in-depth analysis of the layouts, structure, and overall user interface. This helped me understand the application’s current state and identify areas for improvement.
Information Architecture
Created an ‘Information Architecture’ to better understand the application. This step involved mapping out the different components of the application and their interrelationships, which provided a clear picture of the system’s structure and flow.
User Interviews
Conducted user interviews and surveys to gather qualitative data about the users’ experiences and pain points. This direct feedback from users was invaluable in understanding their needs and expectations.
Design Thinking Workshop
Conducted a design thinking workshop with the core team, including representation from the client and used crazy 8 method for rapid ideation and discover solutions for prioritization of features and screens for transformation.
Discovery Results
Audit Findings
No proper UX process
Creating UI based on the requirements
Outdated UI with complex navigation
Inconsistent data visualization
User Research Insights
70% wanted improved and consistent interfaces
85% of advisors struggled with navigation
Competitive Analysis
Identified gaps in personalization and real-time advice features
Key Constraints and Challenges
- Reduced Cognitive Load: Simplify the user experience for financial advisors.
- Minimal Change Management: Maintain the existing UI and structure as much as possible.
- Limited Layout Changes: Reduce UI development effort and impact on the QA automation framework.
- Copyright Compliance: Ensure no design elements infringed on NBC’s intellectual property.
Ideation
- Brainstormed design solutions that addressed the identified issues while adhering to the constraints.
- Focused on maintaining the overall structure and layout to minimize change management and development effort.
CGI Experience Design System Integration
- Color Palette
- Typography
- Component Library
- Patterns
- Design Tokens
- Guidelines and Standards
Prototyping and Testing
- Developed high-fidelity prototypes of the new design using CGI Experience Design System.
- Conducted usability testing with a small group of users (financial advisors from the bank) to gather feedback.
- Iteratively refined the design based on user feedback to ensure it was intuitive and user-friendly.
Finalizing the Design
- Finalized a design that met all the constraints and improved the user experience.
- Enhanced navigation, clearer visuals, and more intuitive interfaces were key improvements.
Addressing Copyright Issues
- Ensured all design elements were original and did not infringe on any existing intellectual property.
- Consulted with legal experts to confirm compliance with copyright laws.
Final Solution
The final ‘Financial Wellness’ application was a user-centric platform that reduced cognitive load for financial advisors, required minimal change management, and had no copyright issues. The design was well-received by users and stakeholders, demonstrating the effectiveness of a thoughtful, user-centered design approach.
Key Takeaways
User-Centered Design
Understanding the users’ needs and pain points is crucial for creating effective solutions.
Iterative Process
Prototyping and testing are essential for refining designs and ensuring they meet user expectations.
Compliance
Ensuring compliance with copyright laws is critical to avoid legal issues.