ArcadisGPT
Introduction: In an era where artificial intelligence is transforming how organizations operate, Arcadis recognized the need to harness AI's potential while maintaining the highest standards of data security and domain expertise. This case study explores our journey in developing ArcadisGPT, a tailored AI solution that bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and practical business applications.
Through extensive research, iterative design, and close collaboration with employees across all departments, we created an intelligent assistant that not only understands Arcadis' unique challenges but also empowers teams to work more efficiently and effectively than ever before.
Problem: Arcadis employees needed a centralized, intelligent AI assistant that could help with various work tasks while maintaining data security and providing domain-specific guidance. Traditional AI tools lacked the contextual understanding of Arcadis' specific needs and workflows.
Solution: We created ArcadisGPT, a custom AI chat interface designed specifically for Arcadis employees. The solution provides intelligent assistance across three key areas: Opportunities, Risk Management, and People & Culture, with built-in safeguards for data classification and ethical AI usage. The tool was designed with user input from usability testing. The end product included versions in light mode and dark mode to offer more sustainable and accessible alternatives.
Project Overview
ArcadisGPT represents a strategic initiative to democratize AI capabilities across the organization while maintaining strict data governance standards. The project aimed to create a user-friendly interface that could serve employees across different departments and expertise levels.
Timeline
3 months (Design & Development)
Team Size
6 members (UX, Development, PO)
Target Users
All Arcadis employees globally
Research
The project aimed to create a user-friendly interface that could serve employees across different departments, countries, and expertise levels. I led and conducted usability testing with 9 users, gathering feedback and metrics using a rainbow spreadsheet. Metrics tracked included: Task completion rate, Time on Task, Customer Satisfaction.
User Research Insights
Initial satisfaction rating was 71.6% before redesign
Data security and having access to Arcadis-specific content was a primary concern
Need for tutorials to be more prominent, more comprehensive with a table of contents list, and incorporated upon user login
Request for app version to use more easily on mobile and tablet
Folder feature and organizing prompts was highly valuable
Key Challenges Identified
Varying AI literacy levels across departments
Integration with file management ArcadisDoc features
Balancing functionality with ease of use
“I didn’t know you could save a chat or prompt in a folder.”
“Generally [the results] are true to the question.”
Design Process
Information Architecture
We organized the interface around the user needs and goals assessed in the usability testing, making for ease of navigation, including a deep analysis of the user content and how it is organized. Additionally, designs understanding possibilities for future growth were considered. Lastly, input from the developers and product owner were important in understanding tool capabilities and underlying technology.
Design Evolution
The interface went through multiple iterations, focusing on balancing functionality with simplicity. We incorporated Arcadis branding elements while ensuring accessibility and usability standards. The images below demonstrate mockups I created for light and dark mode (pictured on the left) and the responsive designs for mobile and tablet (pictured on the right). These designs were discussed with the team along with other designs presented. Key features were brought into the final stage designs and launched.
Key Design Decisions
Sidebar Navigation
Persistent chat history and quick access to new conversations, following familiar patterns from popular chat applications.
Inclusion of Sustainability Data
Clear separation of chats and Sustainability information with visual iconography for quick recognition.
Example Cards
Contextual prompts and examples to help users get started and understand AI capabilities.
Solutions
Tool Introduction
We proposed applying a guided tour informing users of how to navigate the tool, which was implemented as part of the initiative to address user needs for those with less experience working with AI or
Reorganize Information Architecture
The interface reveals folder titles which notify users that they are able to group individual chats in larger folders in a more prominent place on the side navigation.
Core Features
Smart Prompting
Suggested tutorials based on user role and experience
Chat History
Persistent conversation storage with search and organization
Data Protection
Built-in classification reminders and usage guidelines
Multi-Modal
Support for text, documents, and future multimedia inputs
Results
Future Roadmap
Mobile & Tablet Application
Native mobile & tablet apps for iOS and Android to support field work and remote collaboration.
Advanced Analytics
Deeper insights into usage patterns and personalized recommendations for users.
Marketing and User Adoption
Presentation of usage to Arcadis employees and tracking growing adoption rates.