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Design process

Who initiated the project?

The project was initiated by the Group Product Manager to address usability challenges in the existing navigation system and improve operational efficiency for Lodgify users.

What problem or opportunity did they identify?

The navigation system was cluttered, making it difficult for users to access essential functions efficiently. Users heavily relied on memory-based navigation, which led to frustration and inefficiencies. Key features such as the calendar and messaging were not easily accessible, slowing down workflows.

Why was this worth exploring?

Improve overall user experience by providing a well-structured and intuitive navigation menu. Reduce friction in accessing frequently used sections like reservations and messages. Help users quickly find and act on important tasks without relying on memory-based navigation.

The team: 1 GPM, 1 Devs, 1 PD, 1 UXR

Timeline: Mid 2024

Discovery

This phase was in collaboration with the UX researcher and the Product manager

Research Methods
User Interviews: Understanding how users interact with the navigation.
Usability Testing: Evaluating the effectiveness of the existing menu.
Data Analysis: Identifying bottlenecks in user workflows.

Key Findings
Users preferred a fixed left-side navigation menu over a collapsible hamburger menu.
The reservations section lacked clear purpose, causing confusion.
Users expected a dashboard/homepage summarizing new messages, bookings, and tasks.
The "Recommended Tasks" section was misleading, as users associated it with task assignment rather than AI-powered suggestions.

We added the number of things we have en each item category.

Problem definition

This phase was in collaboration with the UX researcher and the Product manager

Problem 1

Liz NEEDS a simplified, intuitive, and well-structured navigation menu that prioritizes key features such as the calendar and messaging, AS WE NOTICED she becomes overwhelmed by too many options and requires direct access to essential functions due to her busy schedule and the need to efficiently manage her part-time job responsibilities.

Problem 2

Mario NEEDS easy access to the calendar after login AS WE NOTICED it is where they manage their business most effectively, and currently, navigating away from the calendar is a tedious process that hinders their efficiency.

Ideation

Concepts, prototypes and hifi work

Concepts Explored:

A fixed left-side navigation menu for seamless browsing.
A dashboard/homepage summarizing new activities.
Improved task recommendations tailored to user needs.
Better information hierarchy to reduce cognitive load.

Collaboration Methods:

Design workshops with users to co-design the interface.
Brainstorming sessions with developers for feasibility assessment.

6. Prototyping & Testing

We conducted a design sprint, rapidly ideating, prototyping, and testing our concepts within five days.

Lo-Fi PrototypesEarly wireframes testing navigation structures. Iterative testing with users to refine usability.

Hi-Fi Designs
Finalized UI incorporating validated user feedback.

Improved visual hierarchy and clear navigation labels.

Launch and Results

Challenges

Align with all the modules in terms of responsiveness.
Define clear the icons to update.

What was launched?

A fixed left-side navigation menu for seamless browsing for 50 users in beta. MVP

How was it received?

Conducted usability tests with real users to measure efficiency and satisfaction.
Received positive feedback on improved clarity and ease of navigation.

What’s next for the project?

Collapse expand functionality
Open to all users

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