Intuitive interaction combined with attractive design
For the redesign of its application TestBench , the software company imbus AG relied on User Interface Design GmbH. The integrated development environment for software tests now optimally supports the users in their work. The reason is: a completely conducted user-centered design process. CeBit visitors could experience the project on an interactive display system.
The background
imbus AG is the technology leader in the field of certified testing for industrial applications. With its TestBench, imbus offers renowned customers a test software for the quality assurance of software products. To appropriately emphasize the existing strengths and allow for the requirements of the customers, the usability of the system was to be improved.
The starting point
As the TestBench was initially developed for the own requirements of imbus AG, a unified user interface concept was not always visible. The application contained many inconsistent elements as regards colors and interaction. The complexity of the application and the enormous scope of functions required time-consuming training. There was room for improvement in guiding new users as well as making adjustments for experienced users.
The objectives
- Develop and implement a new interaction and design concept
- Design the interface according to the expectations of the users
- Increase the efficiency of experienced users
- Provide all functions and information needed at an obvious position
- Allow existing customers a smooth transition
The procedure
After an expert review on the requirements analysis, several design workshops took place. Based on the jointly developed findings, UID prepared a new interaction and design concept as well as a high fidelity java prototype. Subsequent qualitative usability tests showed further possibilities for improvements. Based on the results of this study, a final design workshop and additional refinements completed the redesign.
The result
All test respondents evaluated the new application and its impression very positively. Innovative interactions that are compliant to the expectations support the users in their tasks. To support the developers of imbus, UID prepared a style guide including design guidelines and a detailed description of the new interaction techniques and controls.