USDA Project: Enhancing User Experiences for Government Users With GIS Web Application Tool

Introduction:

During my two-year work with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a Lead Product Designer, I had the privilege to work on the NRCS Engineering Tools Suite (NETS): Streamlining Conservation Design and Documentation with Enhanced GIS Web Application. This project presented a unique opportunity to collaborate with a government agency, and software development team to drive substantial improvements in user experiences.

Problem Statement:

The USDA faced the challenge of delivering user-friendly, efficient, and accessible government services to a diverse audience. Their existing digital tools, particularly in the context of a heavy GIS-based application with extensive calculation features, needed improvement to better serve users and streamline processes.

Research Phase: Methods and Collaboration

During the extensive research phase, I employed a variety of user-centered research methodologies, including:

  • User Interviews: I conducted in-depth interviews with USDA users and stakeholders to gain valuable insights into their pain points and specific needs.

  • Persona Development: To better understand and represent our diverse user base, I crafted personas to allow us to design with precision.

  • Surveys: I administered surveys to collect quantitative data and preferences from a broader user pool, providing a comprehensive view of user expectations.

  • Usability Studies: I led numerous successful usability studies, pinpointing areas for enhancement within existing systems and driving innovation in product development.

Collaboration was a cornerstone of this project. I worked closely with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, developers, project managers, and stakeholders. Regular collaboration meetings and presentations ensured that all parties were aligned with the research findings and design goals.

USDA

USDA

Design Phase:

In the design phase, I leveraged the insights gained from research to create intuitive and effective solutions. Wireframes, prototypes, and user testing were essential components of the process. Our goal was to design experiences that users and customers would not only use but also love.

Scope and Achievements:

Over the course of this two-year project, I successfully designed and implemented various components, including:

  • Admin Portal

  • Project Details Page

  • Waterway Sizing Calculator

  • GIS Waterway Design Tools

Key Takeaways:

This project reinforced the importance of human-centered design in government services. It highlighted the value of user research, collaborative design, and continuous improvement in delivering meaningful solutions.

Conclusion:

Working with the USDA on this two-year project was a rewarding experience. It showcased the power of user-centric design and the positive impact it can have on government services.

To respect my non-disclosure agreements, I've removed or disguised confidential details in this project with USDA. More in-depth case studies are available upon request.