https://deborahlevison.com Deborah Levison Sat, 23 Nov 2024 20:19:01 +0000 https://deborahlevison.com en https://deborahlevison.com/Home Sun, 19 Apr 2020 15:52:29 +0000 Deborah Levison https://deborahlevison.com/Home https://deborahlevison.com/Information-3 Tue, 18 Sep 2018 13:47:59 +0000 Deborah Levison https://deborahlevison.com/Information-3 Hello I am a Brazilian-born art director and product designer currently working as senior digital designer at NEXDINE. Previously I held various roles at Microsoft,&nbsp;MRM Worldwide,&nbsp;Maark,&nbsp;Sosolimited, State Street Global Advisors and Corey McPherson Nash. With a strong passion for user research and user-centered design, I have contributed to creating digital ecosystems for diverse clients, ranging from mobile app designs to large-scale digital signage systems. Contact: levisondeborah@gmail.comLinkedIn InstagramSelect Clients:USPSHestan CulinaryCircle Financial MITGoogle XeroxDuke UniversityMuseum of Contemporary Art of San Diego &amp; more... https://deborahlevison.com/Microsoft-Unified-Avatar-System Sat, 23 Nov 2024 20:19:01 +0000 Deborah Levison https://deborahlevison.com/Microsoft-Unified-Avatar-System Microsoft Unified Avatar System Role: Art direction, Design system Company: Microsoft Collaborators: Microsoft design + engineering teams, Tendril At Microsoft, we have a biannual FHL (Fix, Hack, Learn) week—a dedicated time for designers, engineers, and project managers to pause their daily projects and dive into something that excites them. It’s a chance to fix overdue issues, learn new skills, or explore entirely new ideas. During the most recent FHL week, I spearheaded a week-long sprint bringing together multiple design teams with a shared mission: to create a unified avatar system for M365.&nbsp;The sprint was an incredible opportunity to collaborate across disciplines, push creative boundaries, and envision a future where personal identity in M365 feels unified, dynamic, and distinctly Microsoft. <img width="2880" height="1572" width_o="2880" height_o="1572" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7710f3d1e71f91f6eabb452bbdfdd601ed5b444b4b7249a2cadad49ead410949/Avatar-1.png" data-mid="222343259" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7710f3d1e71f91f6eabb452bbdfdd601ed5b444b4b7249a2cadad49ead410949/Avatar-1.png" /> A Fractured System The M365 ecosystem currently offers fragmented and inconsistent avatar management, with each app operating independently (as seen in the image above). Our goal was to unify design and code, allowing users to update their avatar in one app, like Teams, and have it automatically reflect across all Microsoft experiences. Additionally, we aimed to enhance the visual experience by introducing distinct Microsoft avatars and enabling personalized creations through generative AI, fostering a cohesive and seamless identity across platforms. As the project lead, I organized a week-long sprint that united multiple design and engineering teams, breaking down silos and fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration. I structured the sprint to emphasize rapid ideation and seamless teamwork, incorporating continuous feedback loops to refine concepts in real-time. This dynamic, cross-disciplinary approach unlocked innovative ideas and built strong momentum toward a cohesive and impactful solution. <img width="2880" height="1572" width_o="2880" height_o="1572" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/39148370fe66b2031b32776955129a7b5dbc63b04b05b5d5e2423c44c47178ad/Avatar-2.png" data-mid="222343260" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/39148370fe66b2031b32776955129a7b5dbc63b04b05b5d5e2423c44c47178ad/Avatar-2.png" /> Creative Direction Before creating the avatar library, we defined a set of key design attributes to guide our visual direction. These attributes ensure the library remains cohesive, aligns with Microsoft’s brand identity, and provides a clear framework for collaboration with external agencies, serving as their creative brief for future library expansions: Human: Avatars should feel relatable, personal, and evoke emotional connection. Vibrant: They should exude energy and positivity, sparking a sense of passion, purpose, and forward momentum. Dimensional: By incorporating depth and perspective, avatars should inspire a sense of hope and potential, offering a fresh way of seeing the world. Universal: The library must support a wide range of expressions, allowing users to showcase their individuality while fostering connection with a diverse, global audience. These attributes serve as the foundation for a library that is not only visually striking but also resonates emotionally with users, reinforcing Microsoft’s mission to empower everyone to achieve more. <img width="2880" height="984" width_o="2880" height_o="984" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1c225ad56df0c5bc6b7638220134d0498478316396eeab7545be2d5fb5893039/Avatar-3.png" data-mid="222343263" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1c225ad56df0c5bc6b7638220134d0498478316396eeab7545be2d5fb5893039/Avatar-3.png" /> Creating a Library Our journey in creating an “unmistakably Microsoft” avatar library began with strategically categorizing the design options we could explore. These ranged from literal representations, like objects and nature, to highly abstract forms. The purpose of defining these categories was to create a library that was both focused and inclusive—offering enough diversity for millions of Microsoft users to see themselves reflected in the global Microsoft ecosystem. Prioritizing a sense of belonging was central to our approach, as we anticipated that fostering inclusivity and representation would significantly enhance user engagement and connection with the platform. <img width="2880" height="1572" width_o="2880" height_o="1572" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/4eb5545a0790c4007739c44be90e8963dd81ea6a6854ecab262a3097efc6956e/Avatar-4.png" data-mid="222343264" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/4eb5545a0790c4007739c44be90e8963dd81ea6a6854ecab262a3097efc6956e/Avatar-4.png" /> Storytelling In developing the avatar library, we prioritized embedding storytelling as a foundational element. This allows users to use their avatars as dynamic expressions of their identity—whether reflecting their status, celebrating milestones, or marking significant events. By giving avatars the ability to evolve and adapt to different contexts, we not only infuse them with personality but also create a platform for users to showcase their individuality in a meaningful and engaging way. This approach transforms the avatar system into a versatile, expressive tool that deepens user connection and engagement. <img width="2880" height="1572" width_o="2880" height_o="1572" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c6ffa8f5e7ef587bb8ea7c9e7d4d3a68b2b7fc699edac87a1e7bae17b18e17ce/Avatar-5.png" data-mid="222343265" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c6ffa8f5e7ef587bb8ea7c9e7d4d3a68b2b7fc699edac87a1e7bae17b18e17ce/Avatar-5.png" /> Generative AI To complement the development of an “unmistakably Microsoft” avatar library, we explored empowering users to create personalized avatars using generative AI. Collaborating closely with the Designer app team, we proposed a feature where users could craft unique avatars through AI-driven prompts.&nbsp; This approach not only enhances creative expression but also deepens user engagement and reinforces a sense of individuality within the Microsoft ecosystem, driving a more connected and personalized experience. <img width="2880" height="1572" width_o="2880" height_o="1572" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/bca785fb714094b0d0fcded463dc006e856e3e4139e02436e74a77cc2a3121a9/Avatar-8.png" data-mid="222343268" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/bca785fb714094b0d0fcded463dc006e856e3e4139e02436e74a77cc2a3121a9/Avatar-8.png" /> ImpactThrough user testing of both AI avatars and the avatar library, the feedback has been extremely positive. In studies conducted, user engagement has more than doubled in the creation of avatars. Users have also responded positively to the various options of avatar style—whether they are more literal or completely abstract.&nbsp; Although this project had an ambitious goal at the beginning of the FHL week and was mean to be “proof of concept”, it has been something that the Microsoft Design team has taken on as a project to be completed that will be released to customers soon.&nbsp; The sprint process I developed has become a significant success of this project. It has been adopted by multiple teams as a framework for their initiatives, and I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with and lead these teams through their sprints, driving alignment and impactful results across projects. <img width="2880" height="1572" width_o="2880" height_o="1572" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d41ecebba98de12a47546ca146b28f9ad5761c8dc6458f0c03dcdbea7354a8f7/Avatar-6.png" data-mid="222343266" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d41ecebba98de12a47546ca146b28f9ad5761c8dc6458f0c03dcdbea7354a8f7/Avatar-6.png" /><img width="2880" height="1281" width_o="2880" height_o="1281" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/646d13174bcd516ae0e7b9ba053c7ee58957cd9a6c1787c407164e4b0ec7d8ee/Avatar-7.png" data-mid="222343267" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/646d13174bcd516ae0e7b9ba053c7ee58957cd9a6c1787c407164e4b0ec7d8ee/Avatar-7.png" /> https://deborahlevison.com/Circle-Financial Thu, 07 Nov 2024 19:42:34 +0000 Deborah Levison https://deborahlevison.com/Circle-Financial Circle Financial Role: UX + UI Design, Art Direction Agency: MRM Worldwide // McCann Circle Financial is a global fintech company specializing in blockchain-based financial services. It is best known as the issuer of USD Coin (USDC), a stablecoin that is fully backed by U.S. dollar reserves, providing a reliable digital representation of the dollar. Circle’s mission is to enhance the efficiency of payments and financial transactions by leveraging blockchain technology. Circle aimed to redesign their website to effectively showcase their growing suite of products and solidify their position as a leader in the fintech industry. <img width="2880" height="1620" width_o="2880" height_o="1620" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/1ccc6326fa800998bb0ff61f43b659e84d1a0e1a71e5e449358ade44af9fee32/Circle-1.png" data-mid="221361472" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/1ccc6326fa800998bb0ff61f43b659e84d1a0e1a71e5e449358ade44af9fee32/Circle-1.png" /> Discovery Process With the rapid expansion of fintech and the crypto market, we started by conducting a comprehensive audit of competitors, alongside a review of Circle’s existing design assets that could be integrated into the new user interface. User testing revealed that many visitors struggled to understand what USD Coin (USDC) is and how Circle’s offerings could support those looking for a stable, conservative entry point into the world of crypto. Our goal for the redesign was to simplify the world of crypto by using language that resonates with novice users, paired with data visualizations and imagery that help explain the complexities of crypto in a more accessible way. <img width="2880" height="1620" width_o="2880" height_o="1620" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/50b70d6d9d55c317edc59ab06a9249e4c8532c03d1108f4e784cdf1fa5ac5f02/Circle-3.png" data-mid="221361474" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/50b70d6d9d55c317edc59ab06a9249e4c8532c03d1108f4e784cdf1fa5ac5f02/Circle-3.png" /> Design System + Illustration I developed a streamlined design system that simplified Circle’s previous approach while introducing greater flexibility for future enhancements. This system enabled Circle’s design team to efficiently update the website and seamlessly apply the design across various marketing and digital collateral. The design has a modern aesthetic that reflects Circle’s innovative technology, while maintaining a minimal and clean appearance that conveys a sense of stability and trustworthiness. Under my art direction, the Circle design team crafted illustration composites that combined dimensional elements with photography, humanizing the typically “cold” world of crypto. The illustrations prominently feature USD Coin, reinforcing Circle’s expertise and leadership in the stablecoin market. <img width="2880" height="1620" width_o="2880" height_o="1620" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/380292ccb0b9f677f4c556d188bfe3565bb38c2cf0f7e2a8fd5f402921221037/Circle-2.png" data-mid="221361473" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/380292ccb0b9f677f4c556d188bfe3565bb38c2cf0f7e2a8fd5f402921221037/Circle-2.png" /> Impact&nbsp;We conducted tests with novice and expert crypto users and results were positive: &nbsp; There was a +2.5% increase in engagement on the webiste Circle’s podcast, which is promoted on the website, experienced a boost in engagement and has now grown to become one of the top podcasts in the crypto space. <img width="2880" height="1593" width_o="2880" height_o="1593" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/96766b98c58545c4565bc0702678cd49b3a092319cad89286f2f1d9fb9776ec7/Circle-4.png" data-mid="221367755" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/96766b98c58545c4565bc0702678cd49b3a092319cad89286f2f1d9fb9776ec7/Circle-4.png" /> https://deborahlevison.com/Hestan-Culinary-App-1 Wed, 06 Nov 2024 21:14:13 +0000 Deborah Levison https://deborahlevison.com/Hestan-Culinary-App-1 Hestan Culinary Cue App Role: Art direction, UX + UI design, Design system Company: MRM // McCann Hestan is a renowned cookware brand known for its innovative products, catering to both home and professional kitchens. The company was relaunching its Cue smart cooking system and sought a redesigned app to complement the updated technology. The Cue system connects the burner and pan via Bluetooth, enabling users to control both through their smartphones. Additionally, the app offers access to a curated collection of chef-inspired recipes, bringing the professional kitchen experience into people’s homes. <img width="2880" height="1233" width_o="2880" height_o="1233" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/92dc3156e13a5922309b302d75c18d06715a36889f70eeeae478c863bd6b14c0/Hestan-1.png" data-mid="221351563" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/92dc3156e13a5922309b302d75c18d06715a36889f70eeeae478c863bd6b14c0/Hestan-1.png" /> Discovery ProcessAt the outset of the project, we conducted a comprehensive competitive audit and thorough user research. Our findings revealed that user engagement was low because the app was originally designed by chefs for professional chefs, rather than catering to home cooks who were looking to expand their culinary skills. Based on these insights, our primary goal became clear: to boost engagement for both Cue system owners and potential buyers through personalized experiences tailored to individual users. By doing so, we aimed to not only increase the app's value for current Cue owners, but also to encourage non-Cue users to consider purchasing the system in the future. <img width="2880" height="1482" width_o="2880" height_o="1482" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b6402fab2f1bbd4d24d1263059d5f9e702d130dc22e0d1bb5a240844d4bd9074/Hestan-5.png" data-mid="221351618" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b6402fab2f1bbd4d24d1263059d5f9e702d130dc22e0d1bb5a240844d4bd9074/Hestan-5.png" /> Design System I led the development of a design system created for seamless scalability as the app’s recipe library grew. Partnering closely with the Hestan design team, I audited the existing design elements, aiming to repurpose as many as possible to avoid creating custom pages for each new addition. The final design system emphasized a clear type hierarchy, consistent spacing, and high-quality imagery, resulting in a cohesive and visually engaging experience that encourages users to explore the app in depth. <img width="2880" height="1665" width_o="2880" height_o="1665" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/86d7a8b7e476272e14791998bae3e241e48d0452b0aef813764c38f23f8bdc32/Hestan-3.png" data-mid="221351617" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/86d7a8b7e476272e14791998bae3e241e48d0452b0aef813764c38f23f8bdc32/Hestan-3.png" /> User Testing Due to tight project timelines, the app design process was highly iterative, relying on continuous user feedback and a “fail fast” approach. This rapid feedback loop proved invaluable, and guided me toward a design direction that pushed the Hestan brand into an unexpected space—utilizing interaction patterns and visual elements that set the Cue app apart from it’s competitors. <img width="2880" height="1547" width_o="2880" height_o="1547" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7aaa5d39e3be9e9f99e06cf462d530e5426bc16e6d44e976c6d1f157d1f36ba0/Hestan-2.png" data-mid="221351199" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7aaa5d39e3be9e9f99e06cf462d530e5426bc16e6d44e976c6d1f157d1f36ba0/Hestan-2.png" /> Impact Although the app is still in development, Hestan was highly impressed by the designs and testing results. They are now expanding the project to include their website and additional brands within their parent company, Meyer. <img width="2880" height="1620" width_o="2880" height_o="1620" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/37408d4c7fc4ebb724c6c74799d1be850f986361cc9127901da165d3ed3d880f/Hestan-6.png" data-mid="221360567" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/37408d4c7fc4ebb724c6c74799d1be850f986361cc9127901da165d3ed3d880f/Hestan-6.png" /><img width="2880" height="1620" width_o="2880" height_o="1620" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/959ab860e66c57934fd16a3c51e346c221b9a248af7e8c3aca0b9f7c3295c591/Hestan-4.png" data-mid="221351201" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/959ab860e66c57934fd16a3c51e346c221b9a248af7e8c3aca0b9f7c3295c591/Hestan-4.png" /> https://deborahlevison.com/COCA Fri, 08 Nov 2024 20:43:10 +0000 Deborah Levison https://deborahlevison.com/COCA COCA Art direction, UX + UI designCompany: SosolimitedCollaborators: IDEO, COCA&nbsp;COCA (Center of Creative Arts) is a multidisciplinary community arts center in St. Louis, whose mission is to enrich lives and build community through the arts. In their new building, they wanted to create a dynamic donor recognition wall to thank their many contributors. The experience encourages visitors and community members to explore and create with their bodies, turning the public lobby of the building into a performance space. Particles in Motion Visitors can engage with the screens at any time, using their movements to control the flow and color of fluid waves made up of nearly a million particles, creating a dynamic, interactive experience. These particles represent the COCA community and come together to form the names of donors and important community messages. When no one is interacting with the installation, the recorded movements of real musicians, dancers &amp; performers from the COCA community appear, bringing the screens to life. To achieve particle movement that was impactful yet controlled, I collaborated closely with the particle designer through a series of iterative experiments, refining the motion each time to strike the right balance between dramatic and smooth dynamics. <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/0488795b1d9c5857ed51b2b127d111018b0a35664fab49b9c7b9f47f44043693/coca-02.jpg" data-mid="221450693" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/0488795b1d9c5857ed51b2b127d111018b0a35664fab49b9c7b9f47f44043693/coca-02.jpg" /> A Flexible System After finalizing the particle movement, we experimented with integrating various typefaces. This process took longer than expected, as many typefaces couldn’t withstand the dynamic motion—resulting in donor names being obscured or wiped off the screen as users moved in front of it. Ultimately, I selected Founders Grotesk, a typeface that proved bold enough to hold up visually while maintaining a timeless appeal. Alongside the typeface selection, I designed a flexible grid system that provided ample space for the particles to flow around the text. The grid is adaptive, allowing COCA to easily accommodate new donor names as their list continues to grow. <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/d12414dc766ce65122a2061441b8271b29e189d3d5385da1f708a1a8fb32c319/coca-01.jpg" data-mid="221450836" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/d12414dc766ce65122a2061441b8271b29e189d3d5385da1f708a1a8fb32c319/coca-01.jpg" /><img width="3840" height="1654" width_o="3840" height_o="1654" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/438eb2ef9dd11852a09c1b9beb82f508524568b03da8cf2fbaf9e900bd310569/Slide-16_9---1.png" data-mid="221450883" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/438eb2ef9dd11852a09c1b9beb82f508524568b03da8cf2fbaf9e900bd310569/Slide-16_9---1.png" /> Impact&nbsp; The COCA donor wall serves as a prominent centerpiece in their main campus building. It has become a popular interactive feature, with the COCA community frequently engaging with the screens and bringing the particle animations to life as intended. The COCA design team has continued to seamlessly edit names and messages on the screens using our flexible system. <img width="3840" height="1654" width_o="3840" height_o="1654" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/05eb59f75ff7d6307c7b31208fc0c082636a3414af772670c0a4e491ee0208be/Slide-16_9---2.png" data-mid="221450909" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/05eb59f75ff7d6307c7b31208fc0c082636a3414af772670c0a4e491ee0208be/Slide-16_9---2.png" /> https://deborahlevison.com/Akamai-Customer-Experience-1 Fri, 08 Nov 2024 00:25:37 +0000 Deborah Levison https://deborahlevison.com/Akamai-Customer-Experience-1 Akamai Customer Experience Role: Data visualization, UX + UI design, Design systemCompany: SosolimitedCollaborators: Sasaki Associates, HypersonicAkamai ensures a fast and secure internet experience, handling up to one-third of global web traffic on any given day. They wanted visitors at their new headquarters to immediately understand—and feel—the significance of their role. In collaboration with Akamai and Sasaki Associates, I designed a digital experience that engages visitors from the moment they enter the lobby and continues throughout the customer experience center and workspaces across the 19-story building. Illuminated EdgeVisitors to the building are met with an awe-inspiring introduction to the global scale of Akamai’s impact. The Illuminated Edge is a dynamic chandelier that visualizes real Akamai server data from the network through animations of light. To accompany the chandelier, I designed an interactive table where visitors can engage with the lighting—exploring both current threats and web traffic in Akamai servers. <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/c65f65e42017e7ee965ab0eb2cb84eabe26ba5cffac6c5d968b16f959fe81710/Akamai-1.png" data-mid="221380957" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/c65f65e42017e7ee965ab0eb2cb84eabe26ba5cffac6c5d968b16f959fe81710/Akamai-1.png" /><img width="3840" height="1724" width_o="3840" height_o="1724" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/536e797338297726103b4a19370bba9c57d8c3bbe60a196307cbcdcd9f7c7ebe/Akamai-6.png" data-mid="221380959" border="0" data-scale="100" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/536e797338297726103b4a19370bba9c57d8c3bbe60a196307cbcdcd9f7c7ebe/Akamai-6.png" /> Akamai Timeline A range of digital interactives are featured throughout the building, including a touch table that delves into Akamai’s history—from its founding to recent milestones. Visitors can engage with the table from both sides, exploring videos, company achievements, and thought leadership. The display offers a compelling overview of Akamai’s global impact. <img width="3840" height="1152" width_o="3840" height_o="1152" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b9e849e3640f2ca5895de0692191785ea081dd18020387738395aa28530100d9/Akamai-5.png" data-mid="221380994" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b9e849e3640f2ca5895de0692191785ea081dd18020387738395aa28530100d9/Akamai-5.png" /><img width="3840" height="2038" width_o="3840" height_o="2038" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/06fd6ed058ca50cee7816410a31c66f0889c2e9a2af60e20586e277fe44753b5/Akamai-2.png" data-mid="221380999" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/06fd6ed058ca50cee7816410a31c66f0889c2e9a2af60e20586e277fe44753b5/Akamai-2.png" /> Signage System In collaboration with Sasaki Associates and the Akamai design team, I developed a flexible digital signage system that can be easily expanded and adapted to accommodate the diverse signage requirements throughout the building. The system was tailored to fit a range of displays, from large centerpiece screens in Akamai’s Customer Service Center to smaller screens for private meeting rooms. <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/b770f04ac249ed872b29bab022db590fce12d18a8198e15b7aba89e24ee76f5f/Akamai-3.png" data-mid="221380964" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/b770f04ac249ed872b29bab022db590fce12d18a8198e15b7aba89e24ee76f5f/Akamai-3.png" /> Impact The Akamai design team continues to use the signage system today as they change the content in screens.&nbsp; The footfall in the Akamai lobby (which is a public space), has increased with visitors being intrigued by both the lighting sculpture and the digital screens. Awards: IMFA Annual Awards of Excellence, 2020 <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/dc3e0dc38e810486497dfc9a1793ddc6d49ee6f3f9af60a5f8dfa805eb2091d7/Akamai-4.png" data-mid="221380965" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/dc3e0dc38e810486497dfc9a1793ddc6d49ee6f3f9af60a5f8dfa805eb2091d7/Akamai-4.png" /> https://deborahlevison.com/Akamai-Internet-Observatory Sat, 09 Nov 2024 19:52:59 +0000 Deborah Levison https://deborahlevison.com/Akamai-Internet-Observatory Akamai Internet Observatory&nbsp; Role: UX + UI design, Data visualization, Design systemCompany: Maark/WillowTreeAkamai ensures a fast and secure internet experience, handling up to one-third of global web traffic on any given day. They wanted visitors at their new headquarters to immediately understand—and feel—the significance of their role. Akamai’s “Internet Observatory” is a dedicated section of their website that offers users the latest updates on the status of the internet. As part of their website redesign, Akamai aimed to update the “Internet Observatory” to be less text-heavy, transforming it into a streamlined, easily navigable resource where researchers and press can quickly find key information and data insights. <img width="3840" height="2160" width_o="3840" height_o="2160" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/bc4297a1a779dbfe442d7eef692d18d005abe9271436186e971d2250bd76109b/Akamai-IS-1.png" data-mid="221495634" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/bc4297a1a779dbfe442d7eef692d18d005abe9271436186e971d2250bd76109b/Akamai-IS-1.png" /> Stakeholder Interviews At the start of the project, we conducted an in-depth discovery phase, collaborating closely with the Akamai design team to audit the existing “Observatory” pages and carry out stakeholder interviews. The insights from these interviews were particularly valuable: many Akamai employees were either unaware of the “Observatory” page or hadn’t used it in years, leading some to question the need for a redesign in the first place. This feedback highlighted the need for a fresh approach to make the section more relevant and widely utilized. <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/2d2c765b57474c4c04e621f44032872f740348069c4d11e24b835b90cfb1be71/Akamai-IS-3.png" data-mid="221495648" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/2d2c765b57474c4c04e621f44032872f740348069c4d11e24b835b90cfb1be71/Akamai-IS-3.png" /> Data Visualization System To design an “Internet Observatory” that delivers quick, easily digestible insights, I developed a data visualization system to present real-time information about internet activity. The visual approach reduces the need for users to read lengthy articles, allowing them to grasp key trends at a glance. These interactive visualizations enable users to adjust the data and download graphics for use in their own reports and articles, helping to credit Akamai as a source and increase their visibility. <img width="1920" height="1080" width_o="1920" height_o="1080" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/7f60895771315ce35be6ce5c93bee4cda6717e7ef415a2775b6108e6d4f449a4/Akamai-IS-6.png" data-mid="221495653" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/7f60895771315ce35be6ce5c93bee4cda6717e7ef415a2775b6108e6d4f449a4/Akamai-IS-6.png" /> Impact The redesign of the “Internet Observatory” has been a success, with engagement increasing by over 3%. The new data visualizations have been widely downloaded and featured in numerous articles by the press and researchers. Additionally, the visualization system was expanded for use in Akamai’s Internet Station—a 24/7 command center where employees monitor internet traffic and threats in real-time. <img width="2916" height="1656" width_o="2916" height_o="1656" data-src="https://freight.cargo.site/t/original/i/cfaefe09beb0e1c61b4f019fa8d1799210fd17c17ccbdaf0b5d292a2a37c902a/Akamai-IS-5.png" data-mid="221495656" border="0" src="https://freight.cargo.site/w/1000/i/cfaefe09beb0e1c61b4f019fa8d1799210fd17c17ccbdaf0b5d292a2a37c902a/Akamai-IS-5.png" />