Range 5

Overview

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Complete redesign of a glass container inspection software suite. This case study describes the process and results of this project.

• Context: Remote and on-site mission near Lyon (FR)
• Sector: Glass industry
• Product: Software suite for glass container inspection machines
• Target audience: Glass inspectors, setters and production managers
• Objectives: Harmonize and simplify multiple interfaces through user-centered design

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1. Initial UX/UI design

Thales Services requested my expertise to create the UX/UI of a new software HMI designed to analyze the quality of glass bottles using X-ray technology. Tasks included creating wireframes with Balsamiq, designing graphical mockups with Illustrator, delivering coded styles, and collaborating with developers for seamless integration.

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2. Expanding the collaboration

After the success of our initial collaboration, Tiama asked for our help in overhauling their application suite. I conducted an extensive audit and created a comprehensive redesign brief that included approximately 140 screens.

3. User-centered design approach

Working with a junior UX designer, we conducted site visits, operator interviews, and a series of UX workshops with users and various stakeholders, including lead developers, product owners, the marketing representative, and maintenance operators. Deliverables included personas, user journey maps, user flows and wireframes.

4. Adopt Figma and driving change

In 2019, after a market analysis of new design tools, I supported the company's adoption of the still very new Figma tool to facilitate tasks such as UX/UI design, prototyping, design system development and sharing with developers.

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5. Prototype screens and cultivate a UX/UI culture

Key tasks included crafting screens and prototyping designs for the two primary glass bottle inspection applications using image recognition technology, along with establishing consistent header elements and navigation structures.

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Balancing simultaneous redesign efforts across different project timelines and development stages was challenging. Maintaining a comprehensive view became especially difficult as the redesign initiatives progressed at different paces. I led the effort to embed UX/UI design principles into Tiama's organizational processes. This transformation was recognized by key stakeholders, including the lead developer, who acknowledged the pivotal role I played in elevating UX/UI as an integral part of Tiama's projects.

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6. Establishing a design system

To support these changes, I initiated the development of a design system and component framework in collaboration with junior designers and developers. Deliverables included design guidelines, a Figma component library, WPF styles, and integration documentation for developers. The successful implementation of this system brings cohesive interface harmonization across applications, further driving Tiama's digital transformation.

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7. Facilitating integration and collaboration

Using Git and Azure tools to push my code, I also provide ongoing support to developers to integrate mockups, conduct design reviews, and facilitate day-to-day communication with international teams. I also contributed to interface unit testing, although user testing after development was limited due to time and budget constraints.

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Conclusion

Through four years of intensive involvement in this project, I made significant contributions to Tiama's digital and visual transformation. The experience provided invaluable insights into human dynamics, pedagogy, product methodology, UX research, and technical skills. As Lead Designer, I honed my ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, earning accolades for my efforts and fostering a culture of UX/UI excellence within Tiama.

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