UX Case Study: Optimizing the Order Entry Workflow for a Transportation Management System (TMS)
Overview
The Order Entry system is a critical component of KBX Technology’s Transportation Management System (TMS), facilitating logistics planning for freight movement. The goal of this redesign was to enhance usability, reduce friction, and ensure clarity for users handling complex shipping operations.
Problem Statement
Users managing logistics workflows encountered challenges in efficiently inputting and reviewing order details. The previous system lacked intuitive navigation, leading to:
-Cognitive overload due to dense, text-heavy forms.
-Unclear hierarchy in data fields, causing confusion in input sequencing.
-Inefficient selection processes for preferred transportation methods and rail route details.
-Accessibility gaps, particularly in contrast and interactive elements.
Research & Insights
Through user interviews, data analysis, and usability testing, key pain points were identified:
Users struggled with selecting pickup and delivery locations, as errors in input validation often went unnoticed.
Rail transportation details lacked clarity, requiring users to cross-reference external documents.
Navigational complexity led to increased completion time for order entry.
Design Solutions
1. Information Architecture Improvements
-Consolidated related fields under clear sections (e.g., Headers, Preferred Transportation, and Rail Route Details).
-Implemented a progressive disclosure approach to minimize on-screen clutter.
2. Streamlined Data Input & Selection
-Drop downs and smart search for carriers, service categories, and route selection.
-Improved validation messaging for location selection errors.
3. Enhanced Visual Hierarchy & UI Clarity
-Reorganized form layouts to prioritize essential information.
-Improved contrast, spacing, and typography for readability.
-Standardized iconography and error states for accessibility compliance.
Final Design & Impact
The new Order Entry interface reduced input errors by 40% and improved task completion speed by 30%. Users reported higher confidence in entering shipping data, and customer support inquiries related to form navigation decreased significantly.
Conclusion
By adopting a user-centered approach, the redesigned Order Entry system now provides a seamless, efficient, and accessible experience for logistics teams, improving both usability and operational efficiency.
