This project focused on evaluating the usability of Michigan State University’s D2L platform and identifying opportunities to reduce student frustration, improve clarity, and streamline course navigation.
Using heuristic analysis, user interviews, and task-based walkthroughs, I captured real frustrations around finding assignments, understanding course structures, and navigating between grades, content, and announcements. I translated these pain points into actionable recommendations, including standardized course navigation, clearer visual hierarchy, more predictable interactions, and improved session persistence.
This case study demonstrates my ability to evaluate an existing system, gather user insights, synthesize patterns, and propose targeted UX improvements rooted in usability principles and human-centered design.
Date: Winter 2025
Role: UX Designer
User need: Students need a simplified, distraction-reduced interface in order to concentrate on critical tasks like upcoming deadlines and submissions without feeling overwhelmed by visual clutter.
How might we improve the overall experience for students by simplifying the dashboard of D2L through streamlining the process of viewing assignments, viewing courses, and seeing whats due in a clear and organized way?
How might we improve the overall experience for students by simplifying the dashboard of D2L through streamlining the process of viewing assignments, viewing courses, and seeing whats due in a clear and organized way?
After conducting a series of interviews from students ranging from first-year to graduate students, I found a common theme of pain points I needed to address.
User flow
Proximity Matrix
Between all of the data, I found connections that students need a consistent interface that is universal between all classes. There is also a common theme of unnecessary info and distracting elements that are never used/not necessary and adds to the overall stress of users.
Wireframes
Takeaways
Final Solution
