Simplifying a complex interaction model for cyber security threats
About the client
Securonix develops white-label software for monitoring and managing cyber security threats. Their dashboard is used by security analysts of all ranks, with unique flows for each level of access. Their entry-level security analysts were overwhelmed when trying to find and research security threats, and we were tasked with bringing elegance and simplicity to what can otherwise be an incredibly complex platform.
Leading cutting-edge cyber security software
During a 12 week engagement, we began with interviewing security analysts to understand how they worked through a typical workday of evaluating, categorizing, and escalating potential threats. I also simultaneously led a competitive analysis and audit of the tool. The audit and user interviews were closely aligned on many problems with the existing system. Notably, important information was buried behind multiple clicks and scrolls. Additionally, neither the browser’s nor site back buttons worked properly, abandoning the user once they were deep in the site.
We began revamping the site architecture and exploring new ways to surface important information. I created an inbox-style left nav: giving users a way to work through their tasks in an organized fashion. And it quickly became clear that instead of the existing vertical drill-down model, a horizontal Mac finder-style model was a much more effective way to help users through the workflow needed to assess and deal with a threat.
In addition to the architecture and interaction design, Securonix recently completed a rebrand, and asked us to incorporate the new colors and styles into the designs. I created a new and robust DLS system based on these new elements + a Material UI foundation.
The results are a much-simplified and visually beautiful site that empowers security analysts to work smarter and not harder.
How would AI write this case study…
as an Edgar Allen Poe poem?
Once upon a midnight dreary,
In a realm of threats and queries,
A 12-week engagement did unfold,
As we sought to understand, behold.
Interviews with analysts, our quest,
To unravel their workday’s zest,
Evaluating, categorizing with care,
Potential threats, lurking, unaware.
Simultaneously, we embarked,
On a competitive analysis, unbarred,
Problems aligned, the system’s gloom,
Important information lost, like a tomb.
Clicks and scrolls, a maze so deep,
Abandoned users, a void to keep,
Revamping architecture, our plight,
To surface information, shining bright.
An inbox-style left nav, a guide,
Organized tasks, where users reside,
A shift from vertical, a new decree,
Mac finder-style, a workflow’s key.
In this endeavor, a rebranding called,
Securonix’s colors, like leaves that fall,
Incorporating the new, a design reborn,
DLS system robust, a future sworn.
The results, oh how they soar,
A site simplified, a beauty to adore,
Empowering analysts, their minds aglow,
Working smarter, away from woe.
Nevermore shall buried truths prevail,
As the site unveils, a captivating tale,
A symphony of design, a poet’s lore,
Where empowerment reigns forevermore.
Research
System Design
Design Language
Information Architecture
Interaction Design
High-Fidelity Visual Design
Cover
Stacks expanded
Basic working flow
Securonix DLS Entities
Activity Panel
Partial DLS Items
Securonix DLS screenshot, buttons
