Leading the design of the Insight Database for ASSA ABLOY, I created a responsive, user-friendly platform integrated into their global intranet. This project aimed to enhanced knowledge sharing across the company, and significantly improve access to research and insights for over 47,000 employees worldwide.

ClientASSA ABLOYTime periodOctober 2019ServicesLead UX Design, UI Designer, Interaction Designer

2019-12-17|Magnus UleniusBy Magnus Ulenius|2 Minutes

The Concept

As part of developing their global intranet, ASSA ABLOY aimed to share internal research insights among employees worldwide. The goal was to create a responsive, accessible database integrated with their existing intranet, Avenue, targeting middle managers, product owners, and project managers.

The Challenge

The key challenge was to design an intuitive and efficient knowledge-sharing platform. It needed to cater to a large and diverse user base, ensuring easy access to relevant research while integrating seamlessly with ASSA ABLOY’s intranet.

Research and Insights

To understand user needs and preferences, we conducted several activities:

  1. User Interviews:
    – Engaged with middle managers, product owners, and project managers to understand their attitudes towards knowledge bases and current search habits.
    – Identified preferences for filtering systems and key issues with existing solutions.
  2. Design Iterations:
    – Conducted multiple design iterations, validated with the Product Owner at ASSA ABLOY.
    – Employed guerrilla testing to validate design decisions, exploring various filtering system solutions.

Design and Development

The design and development process involved several key steps:

  1. Wireframing & Prototyping:
    – Created sketches, wireframes, and high-fidelity prototypes using Sketch.
    – Focused on creating a large search bar with an expandable “Advanced Filters” section, ensuring alignment with ASSA ABLOY’s corporate guidelines.
  2. User Testing:
    – Conducted usability tests to identify issues with the taxonomy and filtering system.
    – Used feedback to refine the design, improving naming conventions and restructuring elements for better usability.

Key Features

  • Prominent Search Functionality: A large search bar for easy access to research content.
  • Advanced Filters: An expandable section for detailed search filtering.
  • Responsive Design: Ensured seamless user experience on both desktop and mobile devices.

More iterations

The Result

The implementation of the Insight Database led to significant improvements:

  • Enhanced Knowledge Sharing: Facilitated access to internal research for over 47,000 employees.
  • Improved User Experience: Positive feedback on the ease of finding relevant research.
  • Future Improvements: Identified areas for future enhancement in taxonomy and information architecture.

Lessons Learned

The project underscored the importance of early user testing and understanding the audience. Key takeaways included:

  • Early User Engagement: Conducting interviews and tests early to identify and address usability issues.
  • Continuous Iteration: Regular feedback and iteration to refine the design.
  • Comprehensive Documentation: Detailed documentation to guide users and maintain consistency.

10

Iterations

22+

Screens sketched

10

Days of work

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