Deposco Automations Application

Brief

This project transformed Deposco's complex 'Business Rules' feature into a user-friendly and intuitive automation tool. Previously, the system was so complex that it required internal consultants with deep technical knowledge to create and manage rules. Our goal was to empower customers to harness the power of this critical feature on their own, improving order fulfillment efficiency and accuracy.

Objectives

• Create a usable front-end experience for customers to utilize the 'Business Rules' feature
• Simplify complex configurations into UI components that users can understand without extensive technical knowledge
• Enable users to quickly scan and comprehend automation processes
• Allow users to efficiently create and edit business logic without requiring support intervention

Challenges

• Translating a code-based system into a user-friendly UI while maintaining complex functionalities
• Displaying technical mappings in a way that aligns with end-users' mental models
• Balancing the need for quick rule editing and reordering with clear, readable rule presentation
• Creating a simple, readable UI for accessing thousands of fields within a relational database

Achievements

• Developed a user-friendly front-end experience enabling independent rule creation and editing
• Condensed complex functionality into an intuitive UI with features like drag-and-drop, dropdowns, and radio buttons
• Received enthusiastic approval and praise from end-users during research and post-release
• Achieved widespread adoption and use within the customer base within months of release

Process

Research and Understanding

We began by thoroughly researching the existing 'Business Rules' feature to understand its capabilities and limitations. This step was crucial as we were upgrading an existing, critical feature.

User Interviews and Competitive Analysis

We conducted user interviews to understand our target persona and their pain points. Additionally, we researched other software tools like Zapier, Airtable, Notion, JIRA, and Make to learn from their approaches to rules and automation interfaces.

Cross-functional UX Workshops

I facilitated workshops with Design, Product Management, and Development teams. We used techniques like brainstorming, assumption worksheets, scenario mapping, collaborative sketching, and storyboarding to achieve a shared understanding and generate ideas.

Wireframing and Prototyping

Based on our research and workshops, we created wireframes and low-fidelity prototypes. We followed established software patterns and Deposco's Design System to ensure familiarity for our users.

User Testing and Iteration

We conducted multiple rounds of user testing, using both synchronous Zoom sessions and asynchronous tools like Maze. This feedback informed our high-fidelity prototypes and subsequent design refinements.

Development Collaboration and Ongoing Research

Throughout the development process, we worked closely with developers to bring our vision to life, making adjustments based on technical limitations and changing business needs. We also conducted ongoing research, both virtually and on-site with customers, to ensure we were meeting user needs effectively.