Query Builder for Graph Analysis
Visual Query Feature
Client:
Tom Sawyer Software
Scope:
UX / UI
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 competitor benchmarks and multi-user research to pinpoint critical friction points in query language adoption, identifying high-impact opportunities to reduce user drop-off and time-to-value.
Problem definition
Identified the need for a visual query-building interface. Outlined requirements: intuitive, editable, and powerful enough to support advanced use cases. Balanced accessibility for analysts with flexibility for developers.
Ideate & Prototype
Produced rapid, iterative Query Builder prototypes, focusing on the visual clarity of nodes and edges while collaborating closely with development to ensure technical feasibility.
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.
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.