Case Study / Geological Data Platform

European Geological Data Infrastructure (Ongoing)

Modernizing the EGDI Map Viewer and Data Search to reduce cognitive load and improve discoverability.


Team

Nexa UX, UXARC, Iecoworld
Client: TNO, EGDI

Methodology

Design Thinking (Empathise to Iterate)

Timeline

1+ Years (02.2025 - Present)

Roles

UX/UI Researcher & Designer

The Challenge

Translating complex geological backend data into seamless, intuitive user experience.

The goal was to reduce user cognitive load while maintaining functionality for the Map Viewer and Search tools. The interface should be seamless experience for specialists, science enthusiasts and policy-makers.

Framework & Process
01. Discover

Stakeholder and user interviews, usability testing.

02. Define

User Personas, Journey Maps, and User Stories.

03. Develop

Low-fidelity, High-fidelity wireframes and Prototyping.

04. Deliver

Usability testing, A/B testing, and Dev alignment.

The Solution
01

Home Page

A harmonized entry point featuring "Quick Access" to Map Viewer and Data Search, using high-fidelity imagery.

02

Search Panel

Introduced advanced filtering, "Result Cards" and Preview that display metadata, sources, and validity quickly.

03

Map Viewer

Simplified layer management by introducing a Layer Control Panel and Layer Catalogue.

04

Flagship

TBD soon

Data Search

Before

After

The Solution: 3-Column Architecture

Following three rounds of iteration, a three-column interface was developed for the Data Search module to optimize information density. The layout establishes a logical progression from left to right: Filters, Search Results, and the Preview panel. A visual hierarchy was created to help users navigate complex datasets without cognitive overwhelm.

Advanced Filtering

The filtering system was improved to handle deep technical metadata while maintaining a clean user interface. Geological infrastructure remains accessible and searchable for both expert and non-expert users.

Dynamic Result Preview

The Preview area provides a comprehensive snapshot of metadata without requiring navigation away from the primary search results.

Map Viewer

Before

After

Layer Search & Discovery

The new design replaces the infinite menu with a search-and-filter system. Users can efficiently locate specific geological layers through keyword and filtering. Reduced the time spent navigating complex data hierarchies.

Layer Catalogue & Layer Control Panel

A dual-purpose Layer Control Panel was developed to simplify interactions.

  • The panel acts as a visual staging area, allowing users to track and manage selected layers while continuing to browse the catalogue.

  • Upon closing the catalogue, the panel transitions into a central command center for data manipulation.

  • Users can intuitively drag to reorder layers, adjust specific transparency filters, and manage complex spatial views from a single interface.

  • The Layer Catalogue has the same structural framework as the Data Search module to create a consistent look and feel across the entire platform.

Print Synchronization

The print engine is fully synchronized with the Layer Control Panel to maintain high-fidelity output. This ensures "What You See Is What You Get", allowing the final printed map to accurately reflect the active layers and filters configured during the analysis phase.

I really enjoyed working with Karina on the EGDI data platform. Her UX and visual design skills are excellent, but what sets her apart is her ability to truly listen and understand client needs. She consistently (and nicely) turns complex requirements into clear and effective user experiences. A young talent any team would value.

Francesco Pizzocolo

Senior Program Manager, TNO

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