Design Schematics / Project "Next"
06/ Defining the details of the core applications for the Project "Next" ecosystem. [The fun, less sexy part of design.]
Company / Client
Distinct AI
Year
2025
Type of Work
Full Stack
User Interface
Design System System Architecture
Experience Design
Outdated Processes: Schematics and mockups remained a big part of design and development as we transition from relying on Google Spreadsheets to Jira, Confluence, Figma, and other modern tools.
Primary Design Goals:
-
Step-function refinements
-
Aesthetic and functional Modernization
-
Consistency and branding
-
Rich and dynamic onboarding
Aesthetic and functional modernization means moving toward clean, simple, and modern aesthetics that signal a "perception of newness," while establishing a foundation for highly customizable workspaces.
Step-function refinements include hover states, real-time progress indicators, toast notifications, descriptive text in empty input fields, context-aware pointers (i.e., cursors), and tooltips written in natural language.
[Yes, these were painstakingly spec'd and added a Jira ticket at a time.]
A dynamic, media-integrated onboarding experience helps users learn the features, details, and anatomy of each application. Previously, users were dropped into an empty, static interface without guidance.
Maintain consistency and branding across the standalone app and its plugins by using interoperable design components that reflect both Distinct AI's brand and each partner's branding.
[Every detail counts]