[confidential]
Redesigning the dashboard UI to enhance user control and customization in an AI-driven platform.
ROLE
UX/UI Designer
TIMELINE
11 Weeks | May-Jun 2024
TOOLS USED
Figma, Useberry
BACKGROUND
about the product
The product is an AI-powered tool designed to simplify complex data into clear, actionable insights. Operating through a prompt-based system, users transform raw analytics into meaningful visualizations. However, user feedback highlights a need for more control and efficiency in the process.
What if there was a way to streamline these interactions, giving users direct access to customization without relying solely on AI prompts?
CURRENT CHALLENGES
navigating through the AI maze
When a product heavily relies on AI for every interaction, it feels like navigating through a maze. The original intention may have been to streamline the data visualization process, but relying on AI for every adjustment makes even the simplest change complicated. This reliance transforms quick modifications into time-consuming requests, hindering user efficiency and creating a frustrating experience.
After conducting a heuristic evaluation, it became clear that the over-reliance on AI, along with other usability issues, was a significant barrier to a smooth user experience.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
a middle-ground between human control and machine automation
My design approach was to ensure that AI complements rather than overwhelms human interactions. To achieve this, I separated AI and human controls into dedicated sections within the sidebar. This redesign distinctly separates AI from user customization, allowing AI to handle more complex, data-driven tasks while enabling users to concentrate on the more creative and nuanced aspects of the product. This thoughtful integration of human and AI elements ensures that human control remains intentional and purposeful.
UI elements
After discussing with the client, I compiled a list of common UI modifications that users frequently requested AI to implement. Additionally, I critically examined graphical elements that enhance visual adjustments and focused on incorporating these features into the sidebar.
Design inspiration for the sidebar came from established software tools like Figma and Facet, both recognized for their clean, intuitive interfaces and robust editing capabilities. I specifically narrowed the focus to data visualization components most relevant to users working with graphs and charts. By prioritizing these key elements, the interface remained simple yet powerful, enabling users to make necessary adjustments without feeling overwhelmed by excessive options.
FINAL DESIGNS
client response
The client liked the idea of the fixed sidebar in enhancing overall navigation, leading to a more streamlined and accessible interface. They specifically complimented the x- and y-axis toggles as a standout feature, noting how this component aligned with their vision for customization.
REFLECTIONS
personal takeaways
It was incredibly rewarding to have the opportunity to work on an AI product like this, which allowed me to learn so much about AI-driven design. The experience expanded my knowledge of how AI can be integrated into user experiences and sparked my interest in how to effectively balance automation with human control.Because of this project, I also developed a new interest in conversational AI design, which has opened up exciting new avenues for exploration in my design practice.
looking ahead
The project for me ended with the mockups, but the startup and its product are constantly evolving. Given the dynamic nature of the startup, I look forward to seeing which direction the team takes as they implement customization features that will enhance user experience.
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