'Figma' for Warehouse Solutions
Designed an intuitive, low-learning-curve app with an interactive 'digital twin' to help non-code users simulate and optimize warehouse performance efficiently.
Client
Dematic, US
Domain
Logistics
Role
UX Design & Research
Timeline
2 + 4 mos. (Concept+POC)
Problem Statement
Warehouse design and engineering often involve complex simulations that require specialized knowledge and technical skills. Many users, particularly those without coding expertise, struggle to access and effectively utilize these tools. In turn, this increases dependency on technical staff and elongated project cycles.
Outcome
Bridging the gap between complex engineering and warehouse design by providing non code-savvy users with an intuitive, low-learning-curve application with an interactive 'digital twin' for simulating warehouse performance efficiently.
Challenges
Navigating Complex Subject Matter
The intricate nature of warehouse design and simulation required distilling complex technical concepts into user-friendly language and interfaces, ensuring clarity without compromising on functionality.
Limited Access to Proprietary Tools for Research
The lack of access to proprietary tools for secondary research hindered our ability to gather comprehensive data, requiring creative solutions to obtain relevant insights through available resources.
Unclear and Incomplete Requirements
Vague and incomplete project requirements led to ambiguity in design direction. This necessitated frequent clarification with stakeholders, causing multiple iterative refinements throughout the design process.
Approach
Our approach emphasized cross-functional collaboration, bringing together designers, engineers, and stakeholders from the start. Using an iterative, agile design process, we quickly prototyped, tested, and refined solutions. Through a "show and tell" approach with regular demos, we incorporated real-time feedback to ensure the final solution met user needs and business goals.
Learnings
Embrace Experimentation, Learn from Failure
Experimenting with new ideas, even when they fail, leads to valuable insights that drive innovation. Each failure provided an opportunity to refine and improve, ultimately contributing to a stronger solution.
Adaptability: Be Prepared to Start Fresh
In complex projects, unexpected challenges may require pivoting. Being flexible and ready to restart when necessary ensures that the final design is robust and aligned with user needs.
Clarifying Ambiguity: Leverage Assumptions Effectively
When faced with unclear requirements, making informed assumptions helps move the project forward. These assumptions can later be validated, ensuring progress without getting stuck in uncertainty.