Case Study

NetApp's Interopability Matrix Tool (IMT) helps partners and sales people determine if a given set of software and hardware components are compatible. Through our research, we found that the existing tool relied on the user's knowledge of NetApp products to find and interpret an answer, alienating novice users. It also produced a dense spreadsheet of results, instead of a shortlist of definitive solutions, which made it difficult even for expert users to find a quick answer. We set out to design an experience that would address these painpoints.

Over the course of seven weeks, we analyzed target user interviews to understand key user needs and flows, translated those findings into a conceptual model and high level framework, and then iteratively designed and tested a set of wireframes detailing critical user scenarios. We also created a set of reference screens to illustrate a new look and feel.

Ultimately, we delivered our research findings, concepts, wireframes, and reference screens to the NetApp IMT team to communicate how the tool should be updated to better accommodate user needs. Going forward, these deliverables will help to inspire and guide the development of the next generation tool.