ProModel.ai

Modernizing ProModel: Transforming a Legacy Product into a Cutting-Edge SaaS Solution

Introduction

ProModel, a 30-year-old simulation modeling software, has long been a staple for industrial engineers. However, despite its utility, the platform faced significant challenges due to outdated technology and usability constraints. Two previous attempts to modernize the product—ProModel Process Simulator and ProModel AutoCad—solved some issues but fell short of delivering a true modernization. The mission for this project was clear: to transform ProModel into a SaaS-based solution with modern, intuitive workflows and enhanced 3D capabilities to better serve its industrial engineering user base.

Role and Contributions

As the Principal UX Designer and Researcher, I played a pivotal role in modernizing ProModel. My contributions included:

  • Conducting 15 user interviews with in-house experts and current customers to identify pain points and strengths.

  • Reviewing and refining plans for the SaaS-based model, ProModel.ai, to ensure alignment with user needs.

  • Designing wireframes, prototypes, and mockups to envision intuitive workflows and interfaces.

  • Researching and integrating the best AI APIs to enhance training and code-writing experiences.

  • Evaluating and selecting Unity Game Engine as the 3D modeling platform, enabling the creation of custom assets and modernizing the user interface.

Problems

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Problems 〰️

Problem Statement

ProModel’s legacy presented several challenges:

  • Proprietary Code: The software relied on a unique codebase that required months of training for users to become proficient.

  • Ineffective Modernization Attempts: Process Simulator streamlined data entry but was tied to Visio, offering a flat 2D interface reminiscent of early video games. The AutoCad version demanded advanced AutoCad expertise, alienating less experienced users.

  • Outdated Design: Users described the product as clunky and unintuitive, with outdated visuals that hampered usability.

ProModel

Strengths:

  • ProModel is praised for its advanced simulation and modeling tools that help visualize workflows and optimize operations. Users find its ability to pinpoint bottlenecks and test various scenarios valuable for industrial applications.

  • The interface supports real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making, which is essential for detailed process analyses​

Weaknesses:

  • Despite its strengths, ProModel has a steep learning curve due to its proprietary coding structure. Users often require extensive training before becoming proficient​

  • The software does not integrate as seamlessly with widely-used coding standards like Java or HTML, making adaptation difficult for non-experts​.

ProModel AutoCAD Edition

Strengths:

  • Users appreciated the AutoCAD integration, which allows them to import precise, to-scale drawings for process simulations. This integration is particularly beneficial for engineers who are already familiar with AutoCAD​

Weaknesses:

  • The requirement for advanced AutoCAD knowledge limits its usability for less experienced users or those from other disciplines.

  • Reviews highlighted that while this version added dimensional accuracy, it did not address broader usability issues, such as accessibility for non-experts or modernizing the overall feel​

Process Simulator

Strengths:

  • Process Simulator excels in enabling quick model development and streamlining the simulation process using familiar tools like Visio and Excel. Users find features like scenario management and Excel-based data manipulation particularly useful​

  • It has been commended for its cost-effectiveness and on-site training support, which enhances its appeal to organizations seeking affordable simulation solutions​

Weaknesses:

  • The reliance on Visio limits its visual sophistication, with users describing it as feeling dated, akin to 2D “Atari”-style visuals.

  • Some users noted frustrations with automatic default values and lack of transparency in certain features, which can disrupt workflow. Additionally, some advanced features of ProModel were not fully available in Process Simulator, such as handling complex alphanumeric data​.

Process Flow

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Process Flow 〰️

Process

1. User Research

The project began with in-depth interviews with ProModel experts and customers. These discussions illuminated key pain points, such as the steep learning curve of proprietary code and dissatisfaction with outdated 2D visuals. Users also provided feedback on planned SaaS features, which were adjusted to better address their needs.

2. Design and Prototyping

With insights from user research, I designed intuitive workflows and interfaces that emphasized ease of use. High-fidelity prototypes showcased:

  • Seamless data entry processes.

  • Enhanced visualization with 3D modeling capabilities.

  • AI-powered training tools to guide users through complex tasks.

3. Technology Selection

To deliver a cutting-edge experience, I researched and recommended:

  • AI APIs to simplify training and coding, ensuring a smoother user experience.

  • Unity Game Engine as the platform for 3D modeling, providing users with immersive and customizable assets.

4. Beta Testing

I conducted successful beta tests with the same 15 users who participated in initial interviews. Their feedback validated the design decisions, highlighting significant improvements in usability and satisfaction with the modernized features.

Challenges

The project faced several obstacles:

  • Legacy Constraints: Balancing the need to preserve key functionalities with the push for modernization.

  • Technical Complexity: Integrating proprietary code with new technologies such as Unity and AI APIs required innovative solutions.

  • User Accessibility: Ensuring the platform remained accessible to both seasoned and novice users.

Results

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Results 〰️

Reflections

This project underscored the importance of user-centered design in transforming legacy products. Through rigorous research and iterative design, we bridged the gap between ProModel’s historical strengths and modern user expectations. While I successfully conducted user acceptance testing during beta tests, I was laid off prior to the Phase One release and, therefore, did not have access to post-launch data. The beta testing results, however, validated our approach and highlighted the value of involving users throughout the process. I was also unable to capture screen shots or other information due to my lay off.

Lessons Learned

  • User Feedback is Vital: Early and continuous engagement with users is key to identifying pain points and validating solutions.

  • Balancing Innovation with Legacy: Modernizing a legacy product requires careful integration of new technologies without alienating existing users.

  • Adaptability in Design: Choosing flexible tools like Unity ensured that the platform could evolve with user needs.