TruTops Calculate
role
UX designer
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approach
Usability Engineering Lifecycle (Mayhew)
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tools
Figma, Lookback, Teams
TruTops Calculate is a highly complex software solution for calculating prices and quotations for metal parts. Using the Mayhew approach, the software was not only redesigned but also re-envisioned with innovative features and concepts.
Requirements Analysis and Problem Definition
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In this phase, I focused on analyzing the user group and their environment in order to tailor the new solution to user needs. Building domain knowledge was a key milestone for the project team, as none of the team members were familiar with the sheet metal processing industry.
Based on contextual research, I created a user profile, analyzed the opportunities and constraints of the platform, and defined usability goals.
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Concept phase
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The concept phase began with the creation of a target customer journey. This was followed by the development of a use case model to define the relationships and interactions between users of the future solution. Since the new solution represented a different and innovative approach compared to the existing software, I created a Business Model Canvas to define the business strategy.
Based on the concept, I facilitated the ideation and brainstorming phase using the Design Studio method, which resulted in initial sketches of screen flows. After the project team defined the final screens, I designed black-and-white wireframes in Figma to initially focus on layout structure and data placement. The first iteration of usability testing was conducted using these screens.
High-Fidelity Prototyping and Further Development of the Styleguide ​
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Based on the initial insights from usability testing, I consolidated layouts, data sets, and screen sections. I expanded the existing style guide and designed new icons. Two additional rounds of usability testing were conducted, and with each iteration, the level of detail of the screens was increased.
Learnings
I initially underestimated the complexity of both the industry and the subject matter. Observing users during the analysis phase and involving expert knowledge helped me overcome this challenge. Due to the COVID-19 situation, user interviews were conducted remotely after the requirements analysis phase, which made recruitment more demanding than expected. This challenge was successfully addressed through strong team coordination. Constructive feedback within the project team also helped efficiently improve the quality of the screens.
This work further reinforced how important it is for me to clearly define and continuously consider the business aspect, as innovations and process redesigns are often associated with higher investments. The strategic alignment of a product plays a crucial role in this context as well.