INDU TOMAR
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Inventory Management System

An application to keep track of inventory & much more

H&T Pawnbrokers aims to design an all-in-one application to track inventory and manage stock transfers, monthly auctions, suppliers, invoicing, and reporting.

Objectives of the Revamp

  • Replace multiple desktop applications and manual google sheets
  • Enhance visibility into system status for improved tracking
  • Address disconnected workflows and inconsistent processes
  • Fit-for-purpose and scalable business applications.
  • Automate routine business processes

My Role

UI/UX Designer

Responsibilities

Design research, Concept development, Design strategy, Wireframe, UI design, Interaction design

Year

2024

Process

The project initially required limited engagement for our team; however, seeing the results in a few weeks progress, stakeholders decided to work with the team to revamp the full product.

We further engaged with stakeholders to identify gaps in the journey across various divisions, generate ideas for enhancing the application to address these gaps, and prioritize the essential features and functionalities for the new application

Discovery

To understand the current user experience and potential challenges, we conducted a design audit and usability testing, which helped us better understand UX flows.

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Major Challenges Identified

Overcrowded and Overwhelming Interface

The application’s pages were cluttered and lacked adequate breathing space, causing users to feel overwhelmed.

Poor System Status Visibility

Users could not track ongoing processes or actions due to insufficient visibility of the system status.

Organizational Silos and Process Inconsistencies

Disconnected workflows and inconsistent processes across divisions complicated the user journey and reduced overall transparency.

Data Inconsistency

Maintaining data across multiple platforms (the application, Google Sheets, and Excel sheets) results in inconsistencies and discrepancies, making it difficult to ensure data accuracy and reliability.

Poor User Experience

Users face frustration and inefficiency due to the need to switch between different tools and manually input data, which can lead to mistakes and a lack of confidence in the system.

Security Risks

Storing sensitive information in Google Sheets and Excel Sheets increases the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access, compromising data security and privacy.

Collaborating with the internal team

Throughout the process, I worked closely with the product manager and business users to ensure that the application met their requirements and aligned with the business needs & Processes

User flow

Here’s an example illustrating the user flow of Post In and handing of stock

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Concept Development

We started with whiteboard discussions, then we created Paper wireframes to identify all the elements we need and we also created Low-fidelity prototype to help us to quickly test and validate the design concepts. Based on the feedback, I would update the wireframes, prototypes and user-flows accordingly, yet ensuring that the wider team (Developers, Product Owners, Business Analysts and Architects) would be aware of the design changes.

Some of the design tools that I use are Figma, Invision & Photoshop (depending of fidelity).

Mockups

Here are some screens illustrating the item valuation and notification journey.

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Outcome

The applications have achieved significant early successes, tackling key challenges and paving the way for long-term success. Here’s a summary of the outcomes so far:

Unified and Cohesive User Experience
The new application provides a more consistent and unified user experience. Key features such as Scan & Move Stock, Visibility of Upcoming Transfers, Stock Tracking, and Audit Trail help reduce fragmentation, offering a holistic experience for users across various use cases.

Intuitive Design Based on User Feedback
Early feedback from stakeholders and technical team highlights the improved intuitiveness of the redesigned UX. Simplified workflows and clear navigation have made it easier for users to interact with the applications, enhancing usability and accessibility.

Aligned Development Practices
The removal of silos in development has resulted in consistent design and functionality across the product suite. Collaborative development practices ensure better alignment with user needs and business goals.

While these initial outcomes are promising, the first phase of the product has only recently launched, and the full impact is still unfolding. Continued user feedback will play a crucial role in refining and enhancing the applications to maximize their potential and adoption.

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