Developed an advanced workflow system for UK air traffic control to enhance operational efficiency and reduce cognitive load for air traffic controllers

Role:

Product Discovery

Tools: Figma | Excel | Miro | Illustrator | Teams

Value Proposition:

An integrated system designed to streamline communication, automate tasks, and support controllers with intuitive touch-screen interfaces. Key advantages include:

Product Discovery & Design Process:

Our approach to developing the air traffic control system was grounded in a rigorous Product Discovery and Design Process, aimed at fully understanding the unique needs of air traffic controllers and designing solutions that enhance their workflow.

  1. Initial Research: We began with in-depth research, engaging directly with air traffic controllers to uncover their daily challenges, pain points, and specific needs. This step provided essential insights into the information hierarchy and the types of functionalities that would bring the greatest impact to their work.
  2. Co-Creation Workshops: Next, we organized collaborative workshops with key stakeholders from operations, technology, and UX. These sessions allowed us to align on project goals, identify essential features, and co-create design concepts that resonated with both the operational requirements and the technical feasibility of the system.
  3. Iterative Validation and User Feedback: Throughout the process, we employed an iterative approach to prototyping, conducting regular testing sessions in a simulation environment. This enabled us to gather direct feedback from controllers, validate functionality, and refine the design to ensure it was intuitive, efficient, and aligned with their workflow.

This structured Product Discovery & Design Process allowed us to build a system that not only meets the operational demands of air traffic control but also enhances the user experience, leading to a more efficient and user-friendly interface.

Prototyping & Testing:

To ensure the effectiveness and usability of the air traffic control system, we conducted a thorough prototyping and testing phase based on real-world scenarios. Testing was carried out in two types of airport settings: London Heathrow, a large, high-traffic hub, and a smaller regional airport, allowing us to address the specific needs and challenges of diverse operational environments.

The final solution was tested in a realistic control tower setup, with video screens simulating runway views under typical air traffic conditions. This setup enabled controllers to engage with the system as they would in a live environment, evaluating workflow optimizations objectively. Key metrics, such as execution time and response to unforeseen events, were closely monitored to assess improvements in process efficiency and overall functionality.

This rigorous testing process ensured that the system met operational demands, supporting air traffic controllers in making faster, more informed decisions in complex scenarios.