Case Study:

Standard Solution for Realtors

2011–2013 User interfaceUI designer

Standard Solution for Realtors is a mobile web resource that provides real estate listings and map searching to home buyers. Through advanced filters, buyers can narrow the results to find a housing selection that matches their preferences. Users can also access basic property information and agency contact details.

When one of our clients requested the implementation of this solution, in a short time the platform could be configured with their housing data and visually adapted to the customer branding. A common graphical user interface framework made the configuration and maintenance a very easy task.

In order to comply with a non-disclosure agreement, I have omitted confidential information in this case study. The content presented is based on information available to the public. The approach explained is my own interpretation of common process frameworks and does not reveal any confidential procedures.

My role

I defined the interaction of the application together with the project manager. I led the development of the front-end structure and the user interface. Additionally, I had direct contact with the back-end team located in Finland to discuss the integration of our APIs. After the delivery, and based on feedback from the users and our clients, I maintained the platform and implemented continuous improvements.

The solution

Based on experience acquired, user research, and feedback from our previous projects, in August 2011 we started the development of a new web application, Standard Solution for Realtors. For this project instead of dividing the code for three platforms (iPhone, iPad and phones with Android system), the application was implemented using a shared single code base, allowing the company to save time in the implementation and in its maintenance. A requirement of this project was to implement basic functionality, internationalization support and the possibility of an easy customization so that the application could be delivered to small and medium realtors in a short period of time.

In collaboration with the project manager, I defined the application interaction. I was responsible of designing and developing the user interface and during the implementation I reacted to the feedback received from the project management, adding or improving functionality according to their demands. We implemented a dynamic stylesheet language (LESS) for a quick adaptation of the corporate colors and requirements of each customer.

The application became so easy and fast to customize that it was even possible to use it as a demonstration of our consulting services and our back-end APIs integration. Once the application was delivered to the first client in October 2011 and based on the feedback received by the customer and users, I took care of periodic improvements. After analyzing statistics, we determined that the platform was useful for the users since four out of ten returned to the page. The mobile web page met the needs and expectations of our clients and was live an average of 4 years.

The main challenges of this project were to develop a modular application for mobile devices that would fit corporate branding, local language and specific content for each client. With this project I learned the importance of designing a scalable product that will fit customer demands.