Exabeam Light theme Optimization

Challenge: During development Exabeam learned through UX research that it’s users preferred to work in dark mode and so the product and dev teams put very little effort into optimizing for light mode. The white on white aesthetic proved to provide little contrast or depth especially when viewing data dense screens. To make matters worse new leadership was hired who preferred light mode for product marketing. This created dissonance between the product and marketing teams and I decided to address it.

I theorized that the optimized light mode theme would not only elevate the platform's aesthetics but also improve accessibility and ensure seamless navigation for users, ultimately contributing to increased user satisfaction and retention.

Objectives: 

  1. Enhance User Experience: Redesign the light mode theme to provide a visually appealing and intuitive interface for users, improving their overall experience with the Exabeam platform.

  2. Optimize Color Scheme: Choose a harmonious and balanced color palette that aligns with Exabeam's brand identity and ensures clear visibility of critical information without causing visual strain.

  3. Improve Accessibility: Ensure the optimized light mode theme adheres to accessibility standards, making it easier for all users, including those with visual impairments, to navigate and interact with the platform.

  4. Maintain Consistency: Ensure the optimized light mode theme remains consistent across different sections of the Exabeam platform, creating a cohesive and unified user experience.

  5. Conduct User Testing: Gather feedback from a diverse group of users through comprehensive testing to validate the effectiveness of the optimized light mode theme and make necessary adjustments based on user preferences and insights.

Outcomes: The preference study we conducted with UserTesting.com showed that 10 out of 12 users preferred the updated theme citing a much more attractive and simpler presentation of the UI. We expect the optimized light mode theme to result in improved user engagement, reduced visual fatigue, and heightened platform accessibility.

Role: Principal Product Designer & Manager

Tools: Competitive analysis, Figma, Usertesting.com 

Completed 2024 at Exabeam