SkillsVR Content Creation Kit
Redesigning a virtual scripting workflow to support product strategy and an expanding user base
Overview
SkillsVR was working to transform its internal VR creation tool into an external product. Built on Unity with a custom visual scripting language, my task was to identify improvements and define a core layout and flow for new users. This would serve as the base to onboard new users and inform future product iterations.
Duration: 3 months (Q4 2023)
Role: UX designer, UI designer
Location: Remote (US and New Zealand)
Solution
I redesigned the core visual scripting flow, moving node parameters from inside the node to a separate details panel. This optimized the viewing of node logic and interacting with large amounts of node parameters. It also, aligned the tool with familiar software layouts, which was validated to be understandable from users across diverse backgrounds.
How I Got There
Understanding the Problem
Being new to this product, I gathered the internal developer pain points to understand the perspective of a power user. To simulate a less technical user onboarding to the tool, I used my unfamiliarity to my advantage and experimented with it myself to note any unclear areas. Key issues included naming conventions, feature gaps, and onboarding challenges. The large size of the visual scripting nodes being the major blocker for use on a single screen.
Secondary Research
I examined other visual scripting, 3D creation, audio, visual, and competitor tools to understand industry standards and similar use cases.
Ideation
I brainstormed many single-screen layouts, focusing on horizontal vs. vertical alignment of the 3D scene and node view and the supporting panels.
Low Fidelity
Two layouts were identified as the simplest representation of horizontal and vertical alignment of the primary view panels. Greyscale mockups were used for:
Evaluation with the development team on the technical approach associated with each option.
Testing with participants of diverse backgrounds to identify which option was more intuitive for non-developer users.
The results indicated that the vertical layout was more intuitive but required significantly more technical lift.
Horizontal
Vertical
Product Strategy
Collaborating with the product manager, the strategy was defined to support users new to Unity and advanced users experienced with Unity users. New users were identified as our primary target to support expanding the user base. By prioritizing ease of use combined with the power of a leading game engine, we gained a competitive edge in the VR content creation industry.
The vertical arrangement supported this strategy by:
Centering the 3D scene and node view panels to give a clear hierarchy of importance.
Maintaining consistent location for editable parameters for 3D objects and visual scripting nodes, reducing cognitive load.
Aligning usage patterns with familiar tools like Photoshop, Figma, and PowerPoint. This would aid in onboarding of users not familiar with Unity.
High Fidelity
Visual design of panels followed Unity’s design system, while visual scripting visuals were designed with developer collaboration to ensure technical alignment and usability. After design hand-off, a close feedback loop was kept ensure designs aligned with implementation.
Key Outcomes
Enhanced Usability and Onboarding: By identifying a single workflow and supporting use on standard laptop screen, onboarding practices were streamlined. This supported the primary goal of enabling user onboarding to expand the user base and market reach.
Strategic Assessment and Planning: Maintaining a focus on the core flow enabled a quick turnaround of an initial framework, while also identifying problem areas and prioritizing user groups. This strategic approach avoided over-designing on bias insights and provided a foundation for the feature roadmap and future research.
Strengthened Team Collaboration: Understanding developers' visions and transparently explaining design decisions fostered stronger cross-functional relationships. This collaboration demonstrated the value of UX in achieving shared goals and ensured a cohesive approach to product development.
Next Case Study:
SkillsVR Design System Foundation