In today's tech-driven world, businesses require seamless and intuitive user experiences (UX). This blog explores the improvement of the UX of Dynamics 365 (D365) applications through Heuristic Interface (HI) strategies—a set of design principles prioritizing intuitive user interaction and navigation. Learn more about the redesign process, from identifying inconsistencies in UI design to brainstorming sessions aimed at maximizing accessibility.
Creating the solution
The journey began with a deep dive into the intricacies of Dynamics 365, where a heuristic evaluation pinpointed usability issues, such as UI inconsistencies, poor visual hierarchy, and limited accessibility. Using Heuristic Interface strategies, solutions were brainstormed to improve user engagement and accessibility by reducing unnecessary scrolls and clicks.
Those initial steps led to the creation of a detailed UX style guide for Dynamics 365, covering elements like color, typography, and layout to ensure accessibility, consistency, and intuitive user interactions. The guide—structured into an introduction, best practices, and application guidelines—served as a roadmap for redesigning interfaces. From hover states to error notifications, adherence to the style guide helped developers ensure consistency across all areas during implementation.
Despite all the planning, challenges still surfaced during implementation as there were feasibility constraints with certain D365 elements. Being agile was crucial to the team as it enabled them to iterate to find optimal solutions. Regular reviews ensured modifications stayed true to the guide's intent, optimizing the user experience within Dynamics 365's ecosystem. Each step of the process emphasized detail and adherence to guiding principles, aiming for an optimized user experience.
Impact of the improvements
Implementing Heuristic Interface strategies yielded substantial benefits:
• A more refined user experience:
Improved ease of use and understanding, boosting efficiency and satisfaction.
• Simplified task execution:
Users achieve tasks more swiftly and intuitively.
• Improved accessibility:
By conducting comprehensive audits of the user interface (UI) using tools such as Fast Pass, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and Stark, overall accessibility was increased. These audits allowed the team to identify and address accessibility barriers, ensuring that the Dynamics 365 applications are accessible to all users, regardless of their abilities.
Reduction in time used for manual testing of the load time of Power BI reports and dashboards.
Key metrics were tracked to evaluate the redesign’s success, including:
Insights into user interaction with the interface.
Adherence to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
Conclusion
Elevating the UX of Dynamics 365 involved analysis, innovation, and precise implementation. These efforts have led to increased accessibility and a more user-friendly environment.
As the pursuit of an optimal user experience continues, more improvements—such as adding a dark mode—will be explored and implemented.
Interested in exploring how UI/UX improvements can elevate your Dynamics 365 applications?
Contact sales@maqsoftware.com to schedule a consultation and unlock the full potential of your Dynamics 365 platform today.
