The Design Process of Garden 🌱: Machine Learning Model Publishing Platform
The main design challenge for Garden was transforming a technical CLI into an intuitive workflow. I had to figure out how to make machine learning model publishing accessible for a diverse audience of users: educators, collaborators, and researchers with varying technical expertise.
My design process focused on understanding user mental models and simplifying previously complex workflows. From there, I worked on prototyping an interface that feels approachable rather than intimidating.
The goal was to formulate an experience where working with these models feels as straightforward as sharing a document, but with the power and flexibility that serious research demands.
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I first conducted in depth interviews with several users (scientists, developers, and educators) to understand their unique needs.
This data allowed me to come to the conclusion that users struggled with the conceptual leap from "individual models" to "complete ecosystems”. It also confirmed my thoughts that the CLI intimidated non-technical users.
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Created user flows and wireframes in Figma for user profile, associated materials page, and metadata editing workflows, iterating based on technical requirements and user needs.
Refined existing visual design through details such as white space optimization, icon usage, and DOI styling improvements.
Worked closely with backend developers to understand technical constraints and possibilities.
Received iterative design feedback through daily mentor check-ins, refining designs based on usability and technical considerations.
Presented prototypes during weekly team meetings to gather feedback and validate design decisions.
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Created an intuitive interface for previously command-line-only workflow.
Designed clear visual hierarchy that helps users understand complex ML ecosystem components.
Established consistent visual language and reusable components for future expansion of Garden platform.
Below is the login flow I prototyped in Figma, along with my iterations of the user profile page.
