Concept for Web Based Parameterization Software
Task
As part of a comprehensive digitalization strategy at SICK, the LiDAR sensor product family (2D and 3D) was migrated from a Java-based desktop application to a web-based platform.
The core task was to break down the complexity of the overall system into context-specific content and make it accessible and usable for end users.
The core task was to break down the complexity of the overall system into context-specific content and make it accessible and usable for end users.
Challenge
During the project, differing perceptions of design posed a continuous challenge. Varying understandings of user-centered design and the prioritization of design activities versus development activities required a sensitive strategic and operational approach.
Another challenge was communicating technology-specific content, as technical products are often highly complex and typically used by a small group of experts.
Solution Approach
A user-centered design process proved to be the most effective approach, encompassing four key phases:
Research and Analysis (Discover), Specification (Define), Concept and Design (Develop), and Evaluation and Refinement (Deliver).
Research and Analysis (Discover), Specification (Define), Concept and Design (Develop), and Evaluation and Refinement (Deliver).
Due to significant differences in product context, the first two phases were characterized by close collaboration and constructive exchange. This collaboration also opened up new perspectives on requirements and specifications for project stakeholders. Ultimately, the cooperation raised awareness of design and user-centered thinking among all participants, creating a highly constructive solution space.
Methodology
For the strategic aspects of design and user experience, teams were sensitized to topics such as the design process, design mindset, return on investment (ROI) of design, the impact of design, psychological fundamentals, as well as guidelines and standards for evaluating design and user experience.
The operational design and user experience work was carried out alongside the project. Demonstrating small, tangible successes proved effective in building long-term acceptance of UX. In addition, collaboration with leadership helped integrate UX as a key component of the overall process.
Digital tools such as Figma and Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, Photoshop) were used, complemented by hand sketching depending on the meeting format.
Key methods applied in this project included personas, customer journey mapping, contextual interviews, wireframing, and prototyping.
Outcome
On an operational level, the resulting user interface significantly reduced the level of expert knowledge required to successfully configure the product. As a result, professionals with less in-depth product expertise can now easily operate and commission the device.
This enables technical sales teams as well as first- and second-level support to use the product effectively for demonstrations, sales activities, and high-quality customer support. In particular, the clear grouping of related parameters into well-structured tiles, a concise and understandable UI design, and a sophisticated help function make the product one of the most important tools for the efficient use of the sensor.
From a strategic perspective, the project achieved a strong increase in awareness of design and user experience, enriched the development process with essential design steps, and ultimately contributed to a higher overall design quality.
Task
As part of a comprehensive digitalization strategy at SICK, the LiDAR sensor product family (2D and 3D) was migrated from a Java-based desktop application to a web-based platform.
The core task was to break down the complexity of the overall system into context-specific content and make it accessible and usable for end users.
The core task was to break down the complexity of the overall system into context-specific content and make it accessible and usable for end users.
Challenge
During the project, differing perceptions of design posed a continuous challenge. Varying understandings of user-centered design and the prioritization of design activities versus development activities required a sensitive strategic and operational approach.
Another challenge was communicating technology-specific content, as technical products are often highly complex and typically used by a small group of experts.
Solution Approach
A user-centered design process proved to be the most effective approach, encompassing four key phases:
Research and Analysis (Discover), Specification (Define), Concept and Design (Develop), and Evaluation and Refinement (Deliver).
Research and Analysis (Discover), Specification (Define), Concept and Design (Develop), and Evaluation and Refinement (Deliver).
Due to significant differences in product context, the first two phases were characterized by close collaboration and constructive exchange. This collaboration also opened up new perspectives on requirements and specifications for project stakeholders. Ultimately, the cooperation raised awareness of design and user-centered thinking among all participants, creating a highly constructive solution space.
Methodology
For the strategic aspects of design and user experience, teams were sensitized to topics such as the design process, design mindset, return on investment (ROI) of design, the impact of design, psychological fundamentals, as well as guidelines and standards for evaluating design and user experience.
The operational design and user experience work was carried out alongside the project. Demonstrating small, tangible successes proved effective in building long-term acceptance of UX. In addition, collaboration with leadership helped integrate UX as a key component of the overall process.
Key methods applied in this project included personas, customer journey mapping, contextual interviews, wireframing, and prototyping.
Outcome
On an operational level, the resulting user interface significantly reduced the level of expert knowledge required to successfully configure the product. As a result, professionals with less in-depth product expertise can now easily operate and commission the device.
This enables technical sales teams as well as first- and second-level support to use the product effectively for demonstrations, sales activities, and high-quality customer support. In particular, the clear grouping of related parameters into well-structured tiles, a concise and understandable UI design, and a sophisticated help function make the product one of the most important tools for the efficient use of the sensor.
From a strategic perspective, the project achieved a strong increase in awareness of design and user experience, enriched the development process with essential design steps, and ultimately contributed to a higher overall design quality.
Mohr Media GmbH & Co. KG
UI / UX Design and Usability Engineering
Lindenweg 5
D–79183 Waldkirch