Query Builder
Democratizing complex query language — intuitive interface for advanced analytics
Client:
Tom Sawyer Software
Scope:
Feature Design / UX Simplification
Year:
2024
OVERVIEW
The Query Builder is a graph analysis feature originally built into Tom Sawyer Perspectives, later extended into other applications such as Tom Sawyer Explorations. Its goal is to give users a simple, intuitive way to define graph patterns without requiring advanced query language knowledge.
THE CHALLENGE
Fragmented Data Onboarding. Analysts faced significant friction when importing datasets, as the lack of a visual bridge forced immediate confrontation with technical complexity.
Syntax-Heavy Barriers. Users without query language expertise frequently stalled due to Gremlin/Cypher syntax errors and dense documentation.
Inefficient Iteration Cycles. Manual debugging and query rewriting resulted in hours of lost productivity, creating a bottleneck for time-to-market.
Delayed Application Deployment. Persistent technical friction pushed back release timelines, directly impacting the speed of graph application delivery.
Adoption Resistance. The steep learning curve of query construction overshadowed the platform's core visualization value, serving as a primary deterrent for new clients.
MY PROCESS
Research & Empathize
Synthesized stakeholder research and customer feedback (support tickets, complaints, POC reviews) to find where query building breaks down.
Problem definition
Defined requirements for an intuitive, editable, and powerful visual query interface.
Ideate & Prototype
Rapid wireframing in Balsamiq and interactive prototypes in Adobe XD, checked for feasibility with developers.
Test & Validate
Refined the Query Builder through targeted usability testing with non-technical analysts, streamlining core workflows—such as pattern building and neighbor loading—based on direct user feedback and QA insights.
Product Release
Collaborated with Product Development to launch the Query Builder within the "Modern Web Preview," successfully integrating the feature into Tom Sawyer Perspectives and scaling its architecture for Tom Sawyer Explorations.
Process visuals are illustrative recreations. Source materials and real project imagery can’t be shared because of employer confidentiality.
OUTCOME
High-Level Data Clarity. Empowered users with a simplified yet robust dataset overview, enabling immediate comprehension of complex data structures.
Code-Free Query Management. Streamlined the ability to build, edit, and save complex queries, removing technical barriers to entry.
Iterative Analysis Loops. Enhanced user focus and precision by allowing analysts to seamlessly return to the interface for ongoing query refinement.
Increased Deployment Confidence. Minimized development friction and reduced "time-to-insight," boosting user confidence in deploying graph applications.
Scalable Product Adoption. Drove increased client engagement, leading to the feature’s strategic integration across the broader product ecosystem.
SKILLS
UX research synthesis · Interaction design · Wireframing and prototyping · Cross-functional collaboration with engineering · Enterprise SaaS · Data visualization UX