We created a new all-in-one workspace for financial modelling. This meant creating an elaborate product with many features and tools which needed to feel familiar for users coming from Excel and Google Sheets, while providing three exciting main benefits: faster modelling, error avoidance and instant presentation possibilities.
I collaborated on the creation of new concepts and was responsible for the design of new features, optimising user flows and creating and managing all screens and components in Figma. I also created a design system and visual aesthetic of the product.
1 Modeldrive view
Goals
Create multiple levels of file organisation while ensuring simplicity.
Users can find the desired model quickly.
Efficient sharing for frictionless collaboration.
Central place to personalise your product experience.
Find, organise and share your financial models.
The Modeldrive view enables users to manage all their models. This is the ‘entrance’ to the product and the first thing users will experience when they start working. However, the work needs to be done inside the actual models. Therefore the main goal is: Get users to the desired model as quickly and easily as possible.
The Modeldrive view lets users group, filter, sort and search their models to find what they are looking for. ‘Notifications’ showed the user what had happened since the last time they opened Modeldrive. ‘Tasks’ helped users to know their priorities. In addition users could manage the teams they were a part of, manage the team’s members, and set their preferences for a personalised Modeldrive experience.
2 Workspace
Goals
Clear and intuitive information architecture.
Seasoned spreadsheet users feel right at home while introducing variable-based modelling.
Calm and enjoyable interface for long work days.
Where you get it done.
The Workspace is the beating heart of Modeldrive. The variable-based modelling it enables gives users access to new features during financial modelling to ensure our product goals: faster modelling, error avoidance and instant presentation.
Investment professionals are working with spreadsheet software for many hours per day. Creating a frictionless environment to get the work done was key. In addition, a clear information architecture and visual design were created to present the many Modeldrive features and tools in an intuitive way.
3 Onboarding userflow
Goals
Ensure user retention through quick and easy onboarding.
Provide value from the start to persuade users to complete the whole onboarding process.
Introduce variable-based modelling to existing spreadsheet users.
The best first impression.
Modeldrive was designed to enable a seamless transition from existing spreadsheet solutions. However, to quickly get the most out of our new approach to variable-based modelling, we created an interactive tutorial during the onboarding process. This was a step-by-step introduction.
Just like with many other features, I first designed the entire userflow as a clickable prototype in Figma. Through testing and collaboration with the developers, the tutorial was implemented in the registration process for new users.
4 Design system
Goals
Safeguard visual consistency.
Speed-up the design process with interactive components and design rules.
Simplify and speed-up the design handoff to developers.
Visual consistency and a streamlined workflow.
I created a design system for Modeldrive to aid in a smooth design and development process. The design system elements were created in Figma, and all styles, patterns and components were then implemented by the developers.
The design system consisted of a variety of styles, icons and components. The components all had their own specific uses and rules, taking into account common practices in UX Design.
5 Video tutorials & presentation
Goals
Spark interest in Modeldrive.
Address target audience by highlighting key features.
Introduce variable-based modelling to spreadsheet power-users.
Clear starting point for new users.
Show, don’t tell. But sometimes also tell.
I created several videos for Modeldrive. One series was dedicated to highlight specific features and to let people search for a visual tutorials. In addition, I created a more elaborate video tutorial which gave an overview of the product as a whole and could be used during onboarding.
Testimonials
Ronald Smits
Co-Founder @ Modeldrive