Sahar Rahimi
design for complex data
Overview
Flexible Reporting was a top customer request in MachineMetrics’ product-market-fit survey. I was assigned to redesign the production reporting workflow by replacing multiple isolated report pages with a single, customizable Report Builder that could support every report type from one centralized workspace.
Objectives
Create a central report page for all reports.
Redesign controls, filters, and data tables for greater flexibility.
Add features for customizable grouping and user-permission-based access.
Include a date picker with quick links and contextual time ranges.
Improve charts and data visualization for clarity.
Design Exploration
We recognized the need to rethink the information architecture, main call to actions, and table of data. During that time I explored different solutions for organizing all the page elements while considering the main user needs and screen sizes. Additionally, I began to incorporate the machine icon that I previously designed for this project.
To optimize screen space, I implemented a sidebar with expanding/collapsing functionality and used it to categorize the controls section. Red, Green, and Orange (as in-fault, good, and warning) represent a particular status of a machine or a data item in MM app.
I created a fully functional interactive prototype in Figma, which was used in user testing sessions with MM customers. Based on the feedback we received, I incorporated constructive changes into the design to improve its usability and effectiveness.
Report Configuration
The challenge was organizing dozens of configuration options, previously scattered across disparate screens and isolated menus, into a workflow that remained flexible for advanced users while reducing cognitive load for everyday reporting tasks.
Consolidated Data Selection: Rather than navigating multiple pages to pull metrics, users can now select high-level parameters (Utilization, Downtime, Effectiveness) in one place, complete with quick toggle controls and contextual tooltips.
Flexible Hierarchy & Grouping: Users can dynamically chain and reorder multi-level groupings (such as Machine and Job) or pull in secondary dimensions like Operator or Hour/Day/Week intervals without breaking their flow.
Precision Filtering: Complex data sets can be pinpointed right within the workflow using indexed search and categorized filter trees, letting users isolate specific jobs, machine types (e.g., CNCs, Lathes), or machine groups without switching contexts.
Supporting reusable workflows
During usability testing and speaking with customers we learned the possibility to save a report would provide high value and it can also save a considerable amount of time for users.
Responsive Design
I initially explored the use of slide in/out controls. We opted to display only one column for the selected data at a time. However, after further exploration and testing, I decided to revise the comps and incorporate horizontal scrolling for easier reading of the data in the table. I also placed the CTAs at the bottom of the screen for better accessibility on touch screens.
Making production data easier to interpret
The team also aimed to include the ability to present data in the form of charts on the main report pages. A crucial step for me was understanding how these reports were generated, along with their limitations and constraints. I also needed to understand the different data types and units that users could mix, match, and customize to give them maximum flexibility. Equally important was identifying the factors that would make the visualizations intuitive, meaningful, and easy to use.
In order to ensure accessibility and visual distinctiveness, I compiled a list of 12 colors that met these criteria within the given constraints.
Retro
I worked with cross-functional teams to make the report page more intuitive and improve the export experience with charts and a smoother workflow. Moving forward, I planned to explore ways to further optimize how users visualize and share their data.
