Drake's workhorse, desktop-based tax preparation software.
Enhancing User Experience and Reducing Support Calls.
Requests for updates to the Drake legacy platform typically arrived in my inbox with a simple prompt: "Can you provide some design input..?" And the "requirements" I was handed were often just as brief. These inquiries set the stage for my work, which focused on improving usability — refining data presentation and simplifying task workflows.
Though the changes often seemed small, they delivered significant results. One major focus was addressing outdated and unclear screens that frequently triggered Support calls. As Drake transitioned its legacy software from Power Basic to C#, I was brought in to modernize and optimize these screens.
This collaboration allowed me to deliver meaningful improvements: reducing user confusion, streamlining workflows, and ensuring the new system aligned seamlessly with the ongoing modernization effort.
In the series of screens below, I first present the "legacy" screen with call-outs for aspects that I felt needed to be addressed. Then, I present the re-designed screens. These re-designs were often "validated" through a quick Figma prototype sharing session with a Drake colleague. Some feedback is better than none...
“Incremental improvements go a long way in helping to retain our dedicated user base.”
— Drake Professional Product Team
I'd love the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can align with and support your organization's goals.
