Bond System
Web Design
Project Overview
Bond System is a central clearing and settlement platform for public and private debt securities. The scheme aims to provide Mainland institutional investors convenient, efficient, and secure access to the Hong Kong bond market for offshore investment.
Role
UX and UI Designer
Type
Banking
Year
2020 - 2022
Design Process
Research > Interview > Initial Analysis > Information Architecture > Design System > Wireframe > Design Critique > User Flow > UI Design
Challenge
Existing system with numerous issues severely impacting operations
Outdated system design from the 90s, mismatch between system behaviour and design compared to modern standards
User seeking new functions to streamline cleaning operations
Guiding Question
How could we organise all features in a good navigational structure within the system?
How could we build a standard, modern, functional and timeless design style for the system?
How could we analyse the existing workflows to develop a more streamlined process for different users?
How could we gather comments from banks, regulator and clearing organisation on the high-level design?
How could we reduce manual operations through the system?
How could we research competitors' designs for references?
Project Management
To understand the existing system, we studied over 1000 pages of documentation and relevant appendices.
The UX and UI teams worked in parallel on flows and guidelines, using Figma for rapid wireframing and design ideation to expedite the process. Afterwards, the teams collaborated closely to develop integrated user experience and interface solutions together.
We followed an agile methodology, dividing work into sprints and using tools like Jira, Trello and Slack for cross-team documentation and communication.
Design System
To establish consistency, structure and communication, we created a design system defining the logo, colour palette and visual language. Mature colours with good contrast were selected.
Typography and Color
The Solution
This bond system required stringent security while supporting flexible configurations for third-party transactions. We analysed stakeholders' challenges and needs, then designed a system based on their daily tasks and workflows. We received confirmation from the clearing organisation on our wireframes and proposed user experience flows. We presented the designs multiple times to explore considerations and opportunities for improvement with the financial regulator. Once most stakeholders agreed, we held discussion sessions with related Hong Kong banks. Numerous ideas emerged. We also solicited feedback through key UI examples and a questionnaire to ensure future users—who must not encounter errors—were well represented.
When designing, we prioritised flexibility to accommodate potential changes. The redeveloped platform streamlined processes across banks, agencies and the central bank for offshore bond investments between Mainland and international markets. Usability and security were balanced to promote regulatory-compliant connectivity. Ongoing upgrades empowered users to efficiently engage in this important market through consolidated infrastructure. A user-centred approach focused on challenges to facilitate ongoing progress.
Related Media
Design Lead
“You did a great job!”
Designer