HS2 - PowerApps - Falcons & Allies

HS2 - PowerApps
HS2, or High Speed 2, is a high-speed railway project in the United Kingdom designed to improve connectivity and reduce travel times between major cities.

Background

Creating a framework for development

Microsoft PowerApps are a low-code development platform that enables users to create custom business applications quickly and efficiently, without needing extensive coding knowledge. Designed to integrate seamlessly with other Microsoft services like SharePoint, Dynamics 365, and Microsoft Dataverse, PowerApps allows organisations to digitise workflows, streamline operations, and enhance productivity.

I designed a framework that allowed users to wireframe applications and export directly to PowerApps retaining branding configured in the HS2 Design System.

Skills

Service design
UI/UX design
Microsoft PowerApps
Microsoft SharePoint

Deliverables

A framework for developers
Guidance and tools for best practice
Templates
Application design

Outcomes

Adapting a framework for the design and delivery of PowerApps has led to significant improvements in both accessibility and consistency across applications. Prior to implementation, apps were often developed in isolation, leading to inconsistent user experiences, fragmented design patterns, and varying levels of accessibility compliance. This not only confused users but also posed challenges for users with disabilities, as essential accessibility considerations were frequently overlooked. By introducing a structured framework, teams now follow a unified design system, shared components, and accessibility best practices from the outset. This has streamlined development, ensured a more cohesive user experience, and made the apps more inclusive and easier to maintain at scale.

Application framework

There was examples of users with creating PowerApps with little or no guidance. There were issues with consistency, accessibility and poor UX. I developed a design system specific to PowerApps and a SharePoint site to encourage best practice and share tools and tips.

Previous Next

The first slide shows the original application designer by the end user with no guidance. There are issues here with consistency, accessibility and poor UX.
The second slide and further slides shows my redesign. Aligned to the Design System and features much more refined UX.