Simwave • Academy
Apr 2021 - Nov 2022 · Lead Designer
Simwave is an educational leader in the global maritime industry, with clients like Royal Caribbean International, Disney Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd, and Vroon. They provide training, assessments, and certification solutions using primarily world-leading simulation technology and physical classrooms. However, covid challenged them to strive for a new approach that can be more online-focused if not hybrid.
My role
I led the design of “Simwave Academy” from 0-1, from analysis to synthesis, designing to prototyping, and preparing documentation for developer handoff. "Simwave Academy" will help support the learning journeys for both educator and student and indirectly contribute to reducing the risk of unpreparedness and accidents on board.
Pivoted to online education
Starting with a team of 7 we had to rapidly define, execute, and iterate on our process of balancing both user needs, business goals, and technical constraints. We delivered a well-received MVP for their ‘Learning Management System’ which later grew out to become a full-stack collaboration ranging from web-based application development to branding, and product strategy to internal tools.
Streamlined communication
We created a new E-learning ecosystem from scratch with a diverse set of advanced features; offline compatibility on vessels, content management systems, PDF generators, crew analytics, and flexible roles & permissions to name a few. A proven continuous implementation process allowed for truly iterative work, enabling future collaborators through unit testing, customer feedback loops, and design guidelines.
Used by thousands of users
Designed manager-side of LMS
Developed components for print
What I’ve learned
I discovered the importance of defining & scheduling activities and taking ownership while developing digital products from 0-1. In order to balance user needs, business goals, and technical constraints you need to empathise and align with different stakeholders and disciplines. Whether it be through interviews, focus groups, presentations, check-ins or having feedback mechanisms in place. Followed by prioritising the work and allocating time to ensure quality.
“In his role as a UX/UI designer, Julong has made a valuable contribution to the development of Simwave Academy. He works with an eye for detail and excels in preserving thoughtful design patterns. He has significantly contributed to translating concepts into well-designed interfaces, enhancing product cohesion, and, above all, achieving an appealing design. …” – Irian Vis, Full-stack Developer & Product Owner at Simwave
Credits
Marcel Kind – Chief Executive Officer • Ralph De Swart – Chief Operating Officer • Remy Lammers – Creative Director • Richard van Heuven van Staereling – Senior Front-end Engineer • Armin Mehinović – Senior Back-end Engineer • Irian Vis – Full-stack Developer & Product Owner • Will Corr – Full-stack Developer • Farideh Bolkhari – UX Designer • Zohreh Asgari – UX Designer • Ryan Verhagen – Chief Commercial Officer • Bash Sarkar – Chief Technical Officer • Lauren Maxwell – Content Lead • Antonio Russo – Content Developer • Silvia Herrero Simancas – Content Writer • Ali Moghadaszadeh – Machine Learning Engineer • Robin van Gestel – Front-end Engineer • Jesse Nijman – Front-end Engineer • Freek Visser – Software Engineer Intern • Arjan de Vries – Communications Intern.
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