From 48 fragmented systems to one unified learning platform for 450,000+ defence users
Led the end-to-end design of a complex B2B ecosystem, improving usability and access accross Ministry of Defence.
Note: Due to NDA constraints, original deliverables are redacted.
Context
Defence personnel could not access or prove their learning history, which was slowing career progression and operational readiness.
At the same time, learning data was fragmented across 48+ disconnected systems, making even simple tasks painful.
Role & Impact
I worked as a Lead Product Designer on a UK Ministry of Defence programme to design an ecosystem of 8 learning products used by 450,000+ personnel.
My role spanned vision, design leadership, and delivery across multiple teams.
Challenge
Users had no central record of their learning data:
Data was scattered across multiple of systems
Records could not be shared or downloaded
Interfaces were cluttered and hard to navigate
This created real consequences:
Slower career progression
High cognitive load for users
Inefficient workforce planning for the organisation
Solution
I designed an MVP learner record that centralised outcomes and enabled secure sharing of a user's learning history.
Approach
Design Iteration
User feedback on design iteration
UI states tested
Key insights & opportunities
Outcomes
Dark theme earier to use for accessibility users
Involving early users helped uncover real pain points quickly and prevented costly assumptions.
Regonisable icons accelerate page navigation
Custom icons and colour coding distinguish each item category, making them easier to scan and improving accessibility.
Improved download flow decreased user confusion
A flexible download flow that starts from a single dropdown, allowing users to download the full list, individual items, or selected items, with the next steps adapting based on their choice.
Interactive tiles provide quick access to filters
Expired and expiring items are surfaced as interactive tiles, showing what needs attention at a glance and allowing users to filter the summary list below directly.
Reflections
Learnings
Work with early adopters
Involving early users helped uncover real pain points quickly and prevented costly assumptions.
Start with an MVP
Shipping a focused first version enabled faster learning and structured collaboration with BAs.
Protect focus time for the team
Meeting-free afternoons and clear team rules improved design quality and delivery speed.
Build team safety
Actively supporting one another strengthened collaboration and trust within the team.
Trade-offs & Constraints
Advocated for the user perspective in a technical team
Joined as the only designer and had to actively challenge assumptions to ensure user needs were represented.
Worked under tight timelines for user validation
Delivered rapid research to meet Alpha timelines while maintaining sufficient evidence for decision-making.
Managed research in a wider, interconnected system
Conducted research on a service that depends on multiple other systems, creating risks when working in isolation.