Yahoo! v3.0 Browser Redesign - 2005

The Yahoo! Browser was developed exclusively for the Broadband Access customers as a premium service that extends their experience with the Yahoo! network. Broadband Access customers can directly access their favorite Yahoo! sites via the Toolbar short-cuts, Sidebar modules and Search while browsing the web or performing other desktop functions.

The main enhancements between the v2 and v3 browser consisted of a fundamental re-architecture of the Sidebar to increase the number of open modules, deepen the engagement with each module as well as improve the ability to easily interchange models. The other significant effort was spent on refining the overall browser look and feel, including the redesign of the entire icon library. For the client frame we explored a number of design directions. Our solution incorporated new features such as Tab Browsing, Smart Search and integrated Pop-Up Blocker functionality.

As the Senior Design Manager, I was responsible for leading the design team that conducted a 3 month rapid development effort. My involvement specifically consisted of setting the overall user experience direction, overseeing usability testing, interaction design and visual design. I worked with the team to develop specific Sidebar prototypes and conducted user testing to build consensus throughout the design, product and engineering teams.