Case Study
USDA (GRAS) Grazinglands Resource Analysis System (GRAS) Services
GRAS is a geospatial (GIS) web application developed as part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) initiatives.
Designed to support the National Resource Conservation System (NRCS), GRAS provides tools and resources for planners and conservation specialists to address agricultural and environmental challenges.
As the Lead UX/UI Designer, I shape the product vision, create innovative design solutions, and ensure seamless user experiences that meet both user and business needs.
Important: This case study reflects my contributions to a project conducted under a strict Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). Specific details, data, and proprietary information have been omitted or generalized to uphold confidentiality agreements. The focus is on my process, methodologies, and impact while respecting the privacy of the client and the project stakeholders.
The Problem
The NRCS offers technical and financial assistance to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners. GRAS plays a critical role by standardizing and streamlining workflows for resource assessment, practice design, and monitoring. However, the tool faces several challenges:
Fragmented user workflows create inefficiencies and slow productivity.
Users struggle with the complexity of accessing and interpreting critical data for conservation efforts.
The tool lacks cohesive design components, hindering scalability and long-term usability.
To address these challenges, GRAS requires a design work that simplifies workflows, enhances data visualization, and improves overall user satisfaction while maintaining compliance with federal standards.
The Approach - SAFe
Using a human-centered design approach, I work collaboratively within a Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) to align design strategies with user needs, technical feasibility, and organizational goals.
Vision-Setting and Collaboration
I partner with Government Product Owners, Technical Product Managers, and Business Architects to define a product vision that emphasizes innovation and scalability.
I facilitate brainstorming workshops with cross-functional teams to prioritize features, gather insights, and establish alignment.
Innovative Design Solutions
I design modular components within a scalable design system to address immediate needs while enabling long-term adaptability.
I develop prototypes that explore emerging UX/UI trends, such as data visualization techniques while also prioritizing MVP timelines.
I advocate for 508 accessible design principles to ensure compliance with federal guidelines and inclusivity for diverse user groups.
Agile Delivery and Continuous Improvement
I implement iterative design sprints, balancing rapid prototyping with high-quality execution.
I collaborate with development and QA teams to ensure designs are implemented as intended, maintaining a seamless transition from concept to execution.
I conduct usability testing and apply user feedback to refine designs, enhancing both usability and engagement.
Takeaways
By deeply understanding user needs and pain points, I craft solutions that empower users and align with USDA's goals.
Agility Enables Impactful Experiences: Iterative sprints ensure swift adaptation to changing requirements while delivering high-quality, user-centered designs.
Vision Meets Execution: By balancing forward-thinking design strategies with practical constraints, I create a product that meets immediate needs and provides a foundation for future enhancements.
Collaboration Powers Creativity: Close partnerships with cross-functional teams drive alignment and ensure a seamless, innovative user experience.
This project demonstrates my ability to lead design strategies that merge innovation with user needs, delivering intuitive, scalable solutions that achieve both user and business objectives.