New and simple: sending newsletters with the eC-messenger

The background

eCircle is one of the largest technology providers for digital direct marketing in Europe. The web-based software "eC-messenger" for sending newsletters as emails, faxes or text messages is applied in renowned companies and organizations such as Aral, Unicef or ADAC. In the course of a brand relaunch of eCircle, this software was revised. Together with User Interface Design GmbH, a new concept was prepared and the system was improved by means of user-centered design methods.

The starting point

The current eC-messenger version made high demands on the users. Obstacles such as complicated navigation and unclear wording resulted in the fact that important functionalities were not found and that many users were over-challenged with the system despite training. The current structure did not allow the integration of too many new functionalitites. Reasons for design improvements of the system also were different font formats, a weak contrast between font and background and an old design.

The objectives

The primary objectives of eCircle and UID were an optimal adjustment of the software to the users' needs accompanied by optimized usability. The system was supposed to be self-explanatory and intuitive-to-use to reduce the training effort. For this purpose, the structure of the content and functions was to be revised and the procedure and interaction steps be adjusted to the workflow of the users in a logical and consistent way. The use of an intuitive and clear wording and a well-arranged, consistent layout were the prerequisities for smoothly working with the system. A revised screen design was to provide the structurally improved software with an attractive appearance which the user likes to work with.

The procedure

After an expert review to analyze the current system, UID developed a rough concept in the form of wire frames, which was prepared in close coordination with an interdisciplinary team of eCircle. Within the user-centered design process, the rough concept was subsequently tested with current users and the context of use was analyzed. On the basis of these results, the UID experts developed a detailed concept in well-elaborated wire frames. To optimize the design, a styleguide and mood charts were prepared to define a clear design line.

The result

The new eC-messenger meets the needs of the users in many regards, e.g. it offers the possibility of re-checking a message directly before sending it to give the user security and reduce the risk of accidently sending an uncorrected email to a large number of customers. Optimal usability is supported by a consistent, logical navigation structure, recognizable, standardized elements and workflows as well as filter and sorting functions. By means of special functions, settings can be blanked to allow the user a better overview. The most important functions are placed in a position which is easy and quick to reach for the user. The denominations of navigation and interaction elements, which have been adjusted to the linguistic use of the users, support the intuitive comprehensibility of the system. Last but not least, a context-oriented help function provides the user with a step-by-step help.

Links for further information

• Web Solutions at UID
• Product: eCircle eC-messenger