Project Overview
Client: LINQ – Titan (School Nutrition Platform)
Industry: Education Technology & Nutrition Management
Project Type: Upload Mapping System Redesign
Role: Lead Designer
Project Summary
While working on Titan, a school nutrition management platform under LINQ, I led the redesign of the upload mapping system. This tool was crucial for users who needed to upload various files (such as menus, invoices, and nutritional data) and map them correctly to the appropriate sections of the system. The goal of the redesign was to simplify and speed up the process, allowing users to custom map files directly within the platform, reducing errors and enhancing the efficiency of data imports.
Goals & Objectives
The primary objective of this redesign was to improve the usability and functionality of the upload mapping system, making it easier for users to import large amounts of data accurately and quickly. Specific goals included:
- Custom Mapping Capabilities: Allow users to define how data from their uploaded files should be mapped to specific fields in the system, rather than relying on rigid templates.
- Streamline the Upload Process: Reduce the number of steps required to complete a file upload and mapping, enhancing user productivity.
- Improve Error Handling: Implement features to help users identify and fix mapping errors in real time, reducing the need for re-uploads.
- Enhance User Experience: Make the tool more intuitive and user-friendly, particularly for non-technical users handling data uploads.
Research & Discovery
User Research:
I conducted interviews and surveys with school administrators and nutrition staff who frequently used the upload mapping tool. The feedback highlighted several pain points:
- Complex Mapping Processes: Users often found the existing system too rigid, with limited options for custom mapping, leading to repeated uploads or manual data entry.
- Lack of Guidance: There was minimal guidance within the system for users on how to correctly map data fields, resulting in confusion and errors.
- Time-Consuming: The current process required multiple steps and a significant amount of time to complete, particularly for larger data uploads.
Competitive Analysis:
I also researched file mapping systems in other industries, particularly within enterprise resource planning (ERP) and content management systems. This gave us insights into best practices, such as drag-and-drop interfaces, real-time error detection, and customizable field mapping.
Design & Strategy
The design strategy was centered around creating a streamlined, intuitive interface that empowered users to map and upload files efficiently. Key design decisions included:
Custom Mapping Interface:
- I introduced a drag-and-drop interface that allowed users to map file columns directly to the corresponding fields in the system. Users could visually match data from their upload to the system’s template, making it easier to understand and manage.
- The system included the ability to save custom mapping templates, allowing users to reuse mappings for similar uploads in the future, further reducing time spent on data entry.
Real-Time Error Detection:
- A real-time error detection feature was implemented to help users identify mismatches or missing fields during the mapping process. This provided instant feedback, preventing the need for re-uploading files after errors were discovered post-import.
- The interface also displayed clear, actionable error messages, guiding users on how to correct mapping issues.
Streamlined Workflow:
- I reduced the number of steps needed to complete an upload by consolidating mapping and data validation into a single process. This allowed users to complete the task in less time, with fewer clicks and screens to navigate.
User-Friendly Design:
- The overall user experience was improved by designing a clean, simple interface with clear instructions and tooltips. This was especially important for users who were not familiar with technical data management, making the platform more accessible.
Implementation & Development
I worked closely with the development team to ensure that the design of the upload mapping system was both functional and user-friendly. Key steps in the implementation process included:
Responsive Design:
The tool was developed to be fully responsive, ensuring that users could map and upload files easily from any device, including desktops and tablets.Data Integrity:
I collaborated with the back-end development team to ensure that the system could handle large file uploads without compromising data integrity. The system was built to process large data sets while maintaining accuracy in the mapping and import processes.User Testing:
We conducted multiple rounds of user testing with school administrators and staff to ensure that the redesigned system met their needs. Their feedback was invaluable in refining the final design, particularly in areas like error detection and workflow simplification.
Outcome & Results
The redesigned upload mapping system delivered significant improvements in both usability and efficiency:
Reduced Time for Uploads:
The new system cut the time required to map and upload files by 30%, allowing users to complete the task more quickly and efficiently.Improved Accuracy:
With the introduction of real-time error detection, mapping errors were reduced by 25%, significantly decreasing the need for re-uploads and manual corrections.Higher User Satisfaction:
Post-launch surveys indicated a 35% increase in user satisfaction, with users reporting that the system was easier to use, more intuitive, and saved them valuable time.
Lessons Learned & Reflections
This project underscored the importance of designing for non-technical users in complex data management environments. By focusing on simplifying the user interface and reducing friction in the workflow, we were able to make a previously cumbersome process both efficient and accessible. One key takeaway was the value of real-time feedback—providing users with instant guidance during the mapping process greatly reduced errors and improved overall satisfaction.
Moving forward, I would recommend expanding the tool’s functionality to include more advanced features, such as automated field suggestions based on previous mappings, to further enhance usability and efficiency.