Alloy Databases Re-imagined

Faced with the imminent shutdown of the backend platform that our critical databases were built on, we had to figure out a path forward. At the same time, we were unhappy with the inflexible and difficult to use interface that had been enforced by the old design. Was there a way to solve both issues, turning this problem into an opportunity?

Our Challenge

The existing database was both highly technical and multi-faceted -- users were able to search for alloys based on dozens of different properties and compositions. Moreover, the various property searches were siloed and not well integrated, nor were they tied into the suppliers databases that enabled user to find manufacturers of the alloys they were seeking.

Gathering User Insight

We began by surveying a group of users who had used the search features before and asked them what features were important to them and how to prioritize the sections for maximum benefit.

Next, we drew up user journeys and proto-personas to represent the users who were using the alloys data. What were they looking for? Where were they in the materials selection process? What data did they find the most useful?

Resulting Redesign

Using the data gathered from the users, we constructed a more flexible interface, integrating multiple related databases into one search, and added a vital component: a direct link to potential suppliers who made the materials the users were searching for (70% of survey respondents said this was something they wanted).

The results were a more robust search coupled with a simple and direct mechanism for taking the next steps in the materials selection process -- buying the actual metals.

We ran several beta tests with a small group of early adopter users to fine tune some features and gather feedback. We continued to gather feedback from users once the interface was live using a persistent survey link.