User centricity
repackaged
Different user groups with different capabilities in four business units? From now on, this is no longer a problem for OPTIMA GmbH: Whether for the packaging of medicines, cosmetic products or food - all machines will have a consistent look and feel in the future. UID made this possible together with OPTIMA.
Easy operation for every skill level
OPTIMA is the global technology leader in packaging machines and filling and production systems. In 2019, the desire arose to provide the operating elements of all machines with a uniform design. Since 2020, we have been working on a solution that puts machine operators at the centre and supports all user groups in their work process. The new design system now enables OPTIMA to implement design elements quickly and uniformly on different machines.
"In the past, the interface was from technicians for technicians. Today, the focus is on the users. Meanwhile, the project team puts on its own UX/UI glasses. Sentences such as "The design would be simpler for the users this way." are dropped. A lot has definitely changed in their minds." - OPTIMA Project Manager Dominik Roll
The process
The human-centred design process was at the focus of the project. Thus, the users were always involved. During on-site visits, we familiarised ourselves with their requirements. The designed concept was optimised with the help of several usability tests. The human-centred approach also changed the client's mindset: Step by step, OPTIMA grew with us into a human-centred way of thinking - a great success for building up know-how within the company.
The team
When the project really took off, the pandemic changed our plan. But Corona could not stop us: The constructive weekly remote consultations continued seamlessly. The usability tests also took place online in close exchange.
Everything in sight
Via a dashboard, product images and core data give operators the reassurance that they are producing the right product. 3D visualisations help to quickly locate and eliminate any faults that occur in the machine.
Timeless and modern
Inspired by the cubic construction method in architecture, the design of the new surfaces is based on the "Smart Cubic" design style. This is also reflected in the look of the OPTIMA machines. Attributes such as dynamic, clean and modern as well as haptic best describe the style.
Always in exchange
With the function "Optimise production", the new system offers the possibility to store know-how for improving production and to call it up when needed. This helps less experienced operators in particular. In addition, the user interface can be customised according to the business unit. Users can thus set as favourites those functions that they use frequently.
Efficient software development
The "Smart Cubic" design style created by UID was additionally implemented by software development as Angular components in Storybook and documented in a style guide. These are now used and further developed for all other "Smart Services" of OPTIMA.
