Smart Atlas Viewer
Introduction: Smart Atlas is a solution developed by Arcadis that serves as a data management and analytics platform. This SaaS product is designed to help organizations efficiently manage, analyze, and visualize environmental and geospatial data.
Problem:
Data Fragmentation
Environmental data scattered across multiple systems, preventing comprehensive oversight.
Manual Processing
Time-intensive manual data collection and analysis with increased error risk.
Limited Insights
Complex datasets difficult to visualize and analyze for decision-making.
Solution: Innovate with the existing Smart Atlas Viewer to incorporate user needs and enhance usability based on metrics gathered through several rounds of testing. Redesign tool with user-driven data and WCAG 2.2 accessibility standards.
Project Overview
Smart Atlas Viewer is a map tool that provides a seamless, self-service, user-friendly interface to curated tools and solutions (viewing diverse datasets, toggling layers, conducting spatial analyses, and sharing insights). The standard map viewer allows all types of users to engage with geospatial data, analysis and tools, enhancing project efficiency and delivery.
Timeline
16 months (Research & Design & Development)
Team Size
7 members (UX, Development, PO, SME)
Target Users
Arcadis employees including GIS (Graphic Information System) experts, and non-GIS experts, project managers, ecologist, and Subject Matter Experts who need an intuitive and efficient tool for geospatial data visualization and analysis.
Research
I led and conducted two rounds of usability testing with 13 users, gathering feedback and metrics using a rainbow spreadsheet. Metrics tracked included: task completion rate, time on task, customer satisfaction. Additionally, during both rounds of testing we included A/B testing. The product team was invited to observe each round of testing and notes were shared in a collective document.
User Research Insights
Users were generally satisfied with the tool with an average of 84% satisfaction rating in the first round of testing and 90.5% satisfaction rating in the second round of testing.
Need for tutorials and instruction throughout the different tabs
Having one place to upload data was important
Key Challenges Identified
The information architecture and labeling were confusing for users
Users could not see the map legend
Multiple clicks to allow for print feature
Layers listed in menu are not organized based on a logical structure or filter system
Change management from current systems
“I have no idea how to get the data off the [programs I usually use] and upload to Smart Atlas”
“I like being able to select the geographic region from the landing page”
Design Process
Information Architecture
We organized the interface around providing a clear and logical structure that simplifies the management of complex data, enhances collaboration, and supports informed decision-making.
Design Evolution
The interface went through multiple iterations, focusing on balancing functionality with business need. We incorporated Arcadis branding elements while ensuring accessibility and usability standards. My colleague designed the initial mockups that created the foundation for my updated designs. I met with the product team, including the product owner, regularly to update the designs based on user feedback and audit for accessibility as the tool transformed from designs to a dev environment. I created mockups then created an updated prototype using Figma Make, addressing key areas like the upload and saved maps features.
Solutions
Visual Hierarchy
Consistent visual hierarchy across global regions.
Accessible Color Schemes
Transform usage of Arcadis orange and complimentary colors to be accessible by WCAG Level AA standards.
Streamlined Workflow
Updated workflow to centralize data upload process, data management, and simplify collaboration.
Help Popups
Added informational microcopy assistance to give context and guidance to users for each tab selected.
Results
Impact Metrics
6.5% increase in user satisfaction
Based on testing feedback
4% increase in task completion rate
Based on testing key tasks for tool adoption
1.5x Task Completion Speed
Average improvement
Future Roadmap
Iterative Design
Continue to develop key features to enhance the tool and incorporate AI.
Continuous Research
Ongoing communication with potential users through surveys, user interviews, and testing.
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.