Designing AmigoCloud: A UX/UI Journey in Geographic Information Systems
Introduction
Back in 2014, I joined the AmigoCloud team as the UX/UI designer, diving into the challenge of creating a mobile and cloud-based GIS platform that would transform real-time geospatial data collection, analysis, and visualization. This wasn’t just another project; it was a chance to shape an intuitive experience for users tackling complex geographic data across various fields—from urban planning to environmental monitoring.
Defining My Role and Vision
As the original app designer, I wore multiple hats, from brainstorming on whiteboards to creating detailed UX flows for both the mobile and web platforms. My goal was to design an interface that would make handling vast amounts of geographic data feel natural and accessible. This process required a deep focus on user needs, balancing technical details with intuitive navigation to create a seamless experience.
Key Project Highlights and Recognitions
One highlight was our team’s opportunity to present AmigoCloud to an angel investor audience, including several high-profile investors. Seeing my designs showcased and knowing they contributed to such interest was incredibly rewarding. During the presentation, I shared how our UX/UI approach could potentially revolutionize geographic data management, making a powerful case for the importance of user-centered design in high-tech platforms like GIS.
Crafting the UX/UI Design
To bring this vision to life, I developed a structured UX flow diagram that mapped out a user’s journey from login to data editing on the mobile app. Every screen was designed to guide users through complex tasks with ease, factoring in potential decision points to create a user-friendly experience. For the web-based platform, I focused on the map-publishing module, making it simple for users to manage, edit, and publish data layers without friction.
Visual elements were another priority. I created a set of icons and UI components to enhance navigation, making sure each feature, from adding geometry to navigating layers, had a consistent and clear visual language.
Final Reflections and Project Impact
The AmigoCloud project culminated in the release of its MVP in 2015, and looking back, I’m proud of how our UX/UI design contributed to its success. This experience highlighted for me the importance of aligning user needs with product capabilities, especially in industries like GIS, where data is dense and tasks are complex.
Today, I continue to bring this user-centered approach to my work and am always open to new projects where I can apply these insights and skills.