Design Session Summary

Optimizing User Experience in Data Entry Workflows 🚀

👤 Alexander Michaels 📅 January 30, 2026 ⏱️ 4:56
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📋 Executive Summary

This design session with Richard focused on refining the navigation and user experience for business owners entering data into the platform. The key theme is flexibility — allowing experienced advisors to choose how data gets entered while providing clear guidance for new users through task-based modules. The new design introduces a workspace-centric approach with visual cues (blue areas for action items vs. white for navigation) and includes auto-save indicators and progress tracking to reduce friction.

💡 Key Takeaways

1

Task-Based Module Design

New landing page shows clear modules for required information: tax returns, business questions, liquidity goals. Users immediately see what they need to complete.

2

Flexible Data Entry Options

Two routes for experienced users: invite clients to share specific data, or upload FactFinder documents (full or partial). System detects what data was received and prompts for missing pieces.

3

Client Invite System with Safeguards

Advisors can invite clients to add data. Status updates to "invited client to share data." Safety check prevents data crossover — if advisor tries to edit, system asks to override and kills active client links.

4

Persistent Navigation Toolbar

Breadcrumb-style toolbar stays visible during data entry workflows, helping users understand where they are and easily navigate back. Includes auto-save indicator and step progress.

5

Color-Coded Workspace Design

Visual language: light blue areas = active workspaces requiring attention; white areas = informational/navigational. Creates intuitive focus on actionable items.

🎬 Video Chapters

00:00 Design Session Overview
00:47 Data Entry Flexibility
02:00 FactFinder Upload Options
03:05 Navigation & Breadcrumbs
04:03 Workspace Design Elements

Proposed Features

Client Invitation System: Invite clients to add specific data combinations via shareable link
Smart FactFinder Upload: Upload full or partial FactFinder PDFs; system detects and reports what data was extracted
Data Conflict Prevention: Safety check when advisor tries to edit data that client was invited to provide
Persistent Toolbar: Breadcrumb navigation that stays visible with auto-save indicator
Step Progress Indicator: Visual progress tracking within data entry workflows
Post-Entry Menu: After data entry, show "Edit Inputs", "Prepare for Meeting", and "Export Full Report" options

📝 Action Items & Next Steps