<aside> <img src="/icons/arrow-right_brown.svg" alt="/icons/arrow-right_brown.svg" width="40px" /> Level Up - Podio Based CRM Communication Web App - 2019
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<aside> 💡 This project revolves around the transformation and holistic redesign of an existing Podio-based communication CRM web application, which serves as a pivotal tool for managing customer relationships and communication channels. Podio, renowned for its versatility and adaptability, forms the backbone of this CRM extension, providing a robust foundation for seamless integration and enhanced functionality.
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My objective was to elevate communication mediums, infuse intelligent features for bolstering customer retention and engagement, refine lead generation mechanisms, streamline multiple account management, seamlessly integrate third-party phone services, enable efficient task and email delegation, empower users to respond on behalf of others, introduce collaborative team chats, and optimize the management of mail templates and signatures.
Furthermore, this project entails the introduction of novel functionalities and infusion of contemporary design elements, ensuring that the extension remains at the forefront of efficiency and user experience in the dynamic landscape of customer relationship management.
The existing tool posed several challenges that hindered user experience and efficiency. The user interface was notably rudimentary, lacking the finesse and intuitiveness expected in modern applications. This simplicity was compounded by broken interaction patterns and an inadequate information architecture, leading to confusion and frustration among users navigating the platform.
Missing Essential Features
The tool suffered from a glaring lack of essential features, impeding users' ability to carry out the tools intended tasks seamlessly. These missing functionalities resulted in a steep learning curve for users, who struggled to adapt to the tool's limitations and complexities.
Integration Hurdles with Podio
Adding to the complexity was the integration with Podio, an already-established CRM database. While Podio provided a robust foundation, integrating the new tool atop it posed accessibility challenges. Users encountered difficulties accessing and utilizing the tool within the Podio environment, exacerbating the usability issues and hindering productivity.
Navigating Modal Constraints
Initially confining the app's interface to a modal component posed significant limitations on functionality and usability. While chosen to align with browser extension requirements, it hindered seamless user interactions. Recognizing the need for a more flexible interface, the project shifted focus to redesigning the tool as a standalone application, aiming to unlock its full potential.
Missing Brand
The product existed with only a name, for it to be used and advertised it needed to have a brand.
Starting off with defining a brand, an iterative design apprach was adapted, leading to initial designs from the rough sketches and wireframes to polished interfaces, and updated iteratively based on evolving requirements and user/client feedback.