Volvo's internal capacity planning system, a critical tool for global manufacturing operations, needed modernization. The existing system, while functional, was keyboard-only and lacked visual hierarchy, making it difficult for new team members to learn and slowing down daily operations. The goal was to create a more intuitive interface while preserving all essential functionality.

For the MVP phase, we focused on the most frequently used features, aiming to transform them into an intuitive interface (mouse-enabled, of course). A key challenge emerged in redesigning the user flow, as the original software lacked clear navigation structure and location indicators. This initial release establishes the foundation for future iterations, which will incorporate additional features based on user feedback and business priorities.

One of the key approaches was breaking down the complex system into manageable segments, analysing each workflow's functionality by asking questions like "okay, so this is where you do X and Y. Does it connect to any other workflow further away in time or is this it?". This iterative approach allowed for focused improvements while maintaining system integrity and ensuring each redesigned segment met user requirements effectively.

With no established design system for internal enterprise software at Volvo, we leveraged AG-Grid's enterprise data grid library as our foundation. This provided a robust framework for our table-heavy interface needs, while allowing us to apply Volvo's visual identity. The approach balanced efficiency with consistency, requiring only minimal custom component development while maintaining a cohesive Volvo look and feel.

The new design improved usability and efficiency while maintaining familiar workflows. Key updates included streamlined navigation, enhanced data visualization, and consistent styling aligned with Volvo's brand identity. The result provides a fresh experience for existing users while ensuring intuitive onboarding for future team members.

Before & After (Before image pixelated for confidentiality)

One example of modernizing a core feature: The data table transformation shows how improved styling, clearer hierarchy, and enhanced functionality make information more accessible while maintaining familiarity for existing users.Added pixelation for legal

Since there aren't many users of the system, we had the advantage of direct communication and feedback loops with each individual user. This close relationship allowed us to quickly understand their needs and pain points, making the development process more focused and efficient. No need for deeper studies or extensive user research methods when working with a small, accessible user group.

Feedback - Most used features

Through direct conversations with users about this information-heavy interface, we identified which elements they actually interacted with most frequently. This user insight helped guide our decluttering decisions, removing rarely-used features while preserving and enhancing essential functionality.

Ideating based on feedback & dialogue

The MVP successfully transformed a complex, keyboard-only legacy system into a modern, intuitive interface while preserving essential workflows. Through direct dialogue when needed with the small user group, we created a solution that not only improved efficiency but also set a new standard for internal software at Volvo. The redesigned system maintains the robustness required for global manufacturing planning while providing a more accessible and visually consistent experience that aligns with Volvo's quality standards. This foundation now serves as a stepping stone for future iterations and improvements based on continued user feedback.