Unlock the potential of PDFs in academia by leveraging advanced AI-based digital research tools to enhance productivity and streamline research processes.
CHALLENGE
The kOS app from Helper Systems needed a user-centered redesign to streamline complex research workflows for professionals and students. Key user pain points included difficulty managing large amounts of information (in PDF form), inconsistent file annotations, showing proof of work, and limited tools for organizing, analyzing, and presenting research findings effectively.
SOLUTION
To overcome these issues, I researched and designed core features that improved usability and functionality. Key updates included:
Developing a modular UI Library for a consistent and intuitive design.
Implementing a pause-and-resume feature for smoother file uploads.
Enabling page and thumbnail rotation to facilitate better navigation.
Introducing a dynamic Word Cloud to visualize insights.
Designing customizable settings and subscription tools for premium users to enhance the research experience.
APPROACH
A user-centered design methodology was employed, focusing on iterative testing and user feedback. The goal was to simplify complex research tasks while maintaining precision and adaptability. Features like improved note-taking tools, navigational enhancements, and a polished interface were designed to support efficient research workflows and improve user satisfaction.
Learn more about kOS and its features.
BACKGROUND
Parent company Helper Systems, designed a proprietary AI powered tool can index every word of a PDF that is uploaded into their system at rapid speed. kOS (pronounced Chaos) was designed and am iOS desktop and mobile app for crawling PDF’s in the public domain to create a kind of Evernote experience for people with dreams of applying this indexing technology to all files (eventually to include all pictures, videos, location datat, etc.).
ROLE
UX Designer: research, wireframes, high fidelity prototypes, UI, cross-functional collaboration, agile development.
CLIENT
helpersystem.com
TOOLS
Figma, Illustrator, Photoshop, Jira, Slack.
DURATION
4 months
Key Features
iOS Design Features
iOS Design Features
Collaborating with the design team, I worked in iterative sprints to design new high-fidelity features in Figma, that were passed off to our development team so we could constantly update our app versions with relevant features and functionality for the user & continue to secure funding. Below are some of the examples of the UX/UI elements I developed.
01. UI LIBRARY
A cohesive design framework was created to ensure consistency across the app. This modular library facilitated easy navigation and provided users with an intuitive experience for managing research tasks. The UI assets were created in Photoshop, Illustrator, and Figma. New assets followed brand existing brand guidelines.
CLICK for a detailed view.
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2nd Tier Section (1x Horizontal)
ISSUE 1
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ISSUE 2
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2nd Tier Section(single pic)
ISSUE 1
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ISSUE 2
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ISSUE 3
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02. PAUSE & RESUME
This functionality allowed users to upload large files in segments, have a live status bar, and control upload priorities - reducing frustration caused by interruptions and ensuring smoother workflows.
03. THUMBNAILS & PAGE ROTATION
Enhanced navigation tools enabled users to rotate pages and thumbnails for better document interaction and streamlined viewing, making the app more versatile for in-depth research. Click here to see research and development of this feature.
04. WORD CLOUD
An interactive visualization tool that highlighted key terms and concepts from PDFs, enabling users to quickly identify trends and insights within their research materials.
Click on Image for Figma Prototype
ZOOM
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SETTINGS
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05. SETTINGS & SUBSCRIPTION MODELS
Premium customization options were introduced, including robust filters, enhanced note management, and tailored features, improving user interactions and supporting different research needs.
Click on Image for Figma Prototype
SETTINGS
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SUBSCRIPTION MODELS
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