The Vantage project

This was a large-scale initiative collaboratively developed by the entire UX team. While an external design firm created the initial framework, it was up to our team to expand and refine the design to meet the project’s detailed specifications. Each team member took ownership of specific sections, and my responsibilities included the following:

• System Update: Designed functionality to check for Lenovo and Windows system updates, allowing users to install updates immediately or schedule them for later.

• Support: Created a user-friendly interface for accessing repair information and troubleshooting resources.

• Smart Performance: Developed tools for smart system scanning, issue repair, scheduling scans, and performance optimization recommendations.

• Security: Enabled users to adjust PC security settings with an intuitive interface.

• My Device: Designed the section displaying user account details, hardware specifications, and software information.

• Hardware Scan: Built the interface for scanning hardware components, displaying results, and providing detailed insights.

For each section, I crafted the initial designs using the established Vantage design system and made key UX and UI decisions to define the pages’ functionality and layout.

Focus on Smart Performance

The Smart Performance section presented unique challenges as it involved collaboration with an external vendor responsible for a third-party add-on service. This service was designed to scan the PC for issues, repair problems, schedule maintenance, and provide performance recommendations. While the vendor supplied initial specifications, it was my responsibility to ensure that the feature seamlessly integrated into Vantage, adhered to the Vantage design system, and provided a consistent user experience.

I identified several areas in the vendor’s proposed design that required improvement to enhance usability and better align with Vantage’s core functionality and user experience standards. Specifically, I emphasized the importance of providing users with clear, actionable feedback during and after the system scan process.

During the scan, I proposed displaying real-time information about what components were being scanned to keep users informed and engaged. Upon completion, I recommended presenting a detailed summary of the scan results, highlighting identified issues and the positive changes being made. This approach not only added transparency but also demonstrated tangible value to users, reinforcing the benefits of the add-on subscription and helping them make more informed decisions about its purchase. Here is an example.

Although the vendor initially resisted these changes, I developed detailed reasoning and visual design concepts to illustrate how the improvements would elevate the user experience and align with Vantage’s design principles. My supervisor supported my recommendations, and together we successfully convinced the vendor to implement the updates. As a result, the feature felt fully integrated into Vantage, delivering a seamless, cohesive experience rather than appearing as an external add-on.

Quality Assurance

Once all the pages were finalized, I conducted a thorough review to ensure they adhered to usability standards informed by the Nielsen Norman Group’s Usability Heuristics for User Interface Design. This step was critical in delivering an intuitive and user-centered product that met both business goals and user expectations.

The result was a cohesive, feature-rich application that provided users with a seamless and engaging experience, reinforcing Vantage’s position as a powerful tool for PC management.