NATS—Information Presentation

An interface that simplifies decision-making for air traffic controllers

Year

2023

Type

Software

Agency

Barrabés.biz

Role

UX/UI Designer

NATS is a global leader in air traffic management, delivering innovative solutions that ensure the safety and efficiency of airspace operations worldwide. With decades of expertise, NATS pioneers cutting-edge technologies to support airports and air traffic controllers in navigating complex challenges. As part of the design team at Barrabés.biz, I contributed to the development of Information Presentation, an intelligent and context-aware interface designed to streamline decision-making and enhance operational precision for air traffic controllers.

The Problem

Air traffic controllers in the UK faced significant challenges due to outdated, fragmented systems that required juggling multiple screens and tools, leading to inefficiencies and a higher risk of errors. The setup was both physically and mentally demanding, with unintuitive workflows that delayed critical decision-making. The goal was to address these issues by creating a unified, intelligent interface to simplify operations and improve accuracy.

The Approach

Our solution for this project aimed to enhance the user experience of air traffic control management in the UK by conceptualizing and testing an innovative solution in an airport simulation room. The primary objectives were to simplify the existing system by integrating multiple screens into one and to automate processes to improve accuracy and reduce errors. Our strategy included defining clear user needs, conducting user research and creating high-fidelity prototypes. We validated the product with real users, continuously iterating based on feedback to ensure the solution met the highest standards of usability and performance.

Insights from Design Challenges

One of the main challenges was consolidating fragmented, multi-screen systems into a unified, intuitive interface. Simplifying workflows while ensuring the depth of information needed for decision-making required iterative testing and close collaboration with air traffic controllers. Another key hurdle was managing the cognitive burden these systems placed on users, which we addressed by prioritizing task-specific information and context-aware interactions. Aligning technical constraints with operational needs proved complex, but ongoing dialogue with stakeholders ensured the solution was both practical and impactful.

Credits

Service Design Lead: Isabel Ágreda
Service Designer: Cristina Fernández & Raquel Rivera
UX/UI Designer: Diego Abades
Project Manager: Hazel Terry