UI/UX Product Design
Institutional Direct Digital Experience
Redesigning Vanguard's Institutional Investment Management System
Vanguard’s institutional clients faced significant challenges with an outdated and confusing system for managing their investments. This case study outlines the problem, the solution implemented, and the steps taken to ensure a user-friendly and effective platform.
Problem Statement
The existing investment management system was plagued by several issues:
Dated Design
The interface was no longer visually appealing or intuitive, making it difficult for users to navigate.
Obsolete Technology
The underlying technology was outdated and reliant on an older platform, leading to performance issues and compatibility challenges.
User Confusion
Institutional clients found the system complicated and frustrating, resulting in inefficiencies and potential loss of investment opportunities.
Solution
To resolve these issues, we devised a comprehensive strategy:
New Platform
Transitioning the investment management system to a modern technology platform capable of supporting current and future needs.
User-Centered Design
Redesigning the user experience focused on the key users to ensure their needs and preferences were addressed.
Research and Discovery
As the Senior UX Designer, I collaborated closely with a UX design strategist to conduct thorough research:
User Interviews
We engaged with institutional clients to understand their pain points and requirements.
Site Architecture
Together, we outlined the site's architecture, ensuring a logical flow that met user needs.
Business Expert Meetings
We consulted with subject matter experts to gather critical insights regarding business requirements.
Design Development
With a clear understanding of user needs, I moved on to the design phase:
Component Library
I built a comprehensive component library tailored to the new experience, enabling consistency and efficiency in the design process.
High-Resolution Mockups
Delivered high-resolution design mockups to visualize the new interface and receive early feedback.
Prototypes
Created an interactive prototype encompassing the entire user journey, complete with various versions aligned with specific release dates.
Collaboration and Execution
To ensure successful implementation:
Requirements Compilation
Worked closely with our business lead to compile and clarify project requirements.
Scrum Meetings
Attended daily scrum meetings to maintain alignment with developers and ensure the application was built to design specifications.
User Testing
User testing played a vital role in validating our design:
Conducted tests across various devices and browsers to ensure functionality and responsiveness.
Collected feedback from users to identify areas for improvement and confirm that the design met their expectations.
Outcomes
The redesigned investment management system significantly improved user experience and satisfaction:
Enhanced Usability
Users reported a more intuitive interface that reduced learning time and increased efficiency.
Increased Client Satisfaction
Post-launch surveys indicated a notable rise in client satisfaction ratings regarding the platform’s usability.
Alignment with Modern Standards
The transition to a new platform ensured compatibility with modern technology, paving the way for future enhancements.
Conclusion
The project successfully transformed Vanguard's institutional investment management system by addressing core user needs through a user-centered design approach. This collaborative effort not only improved the user experience but also positioned Vanguard to better serve its clients in an increasingly complex investment landscape.