CodeSee: streamlined, accessible features and navigation

CodeSee’s software generates visual maps to make it easier and faster for developers to understand codebases. But CodeSee—a highly visual product—had an extended gap between in-house designers during a period of critical product development. Our team stepped in and fully integrated into the CodeSee team to support UI/UX and product design on their highly technical product.

As more features and interactions are developed for use within CodeSee Maps, the interface becomes more crowded, which can negatively impact user experience on maps of codebases with larger complex structures. We designed a new, streamlined navigation bar (front, vs. older, less-streamlined design in back) and explored how to tuck features into collapsible elements, drawers, and tabs to keep them easily accessible without obstructing the view of the codebase.