Cisco

Creating a virtual network flow in a Cisco-managed fabric using Software-Defined Access (SDA)

Overview

Cisco Software-Defined Access (SDA) is a solution within Cisco’s Digital Network Architecture (DNA) that simplifies network management by automating tasks and offering advanced security and insights. It leverages software-defined networking principles to provide a more dynamic, scalable, and secure network environment.

My Role

UX Designer - visual design, interaction design, accessibility, development of the design library, implementation review

Team

Neha Joshi - PM
Jen Huang - Leader UX
Lucy Liu - UX

Timeline

Feb 2020 - Feb 2022

Tools

Sketch, InVision, Miro, Figma, FigJam

Business goals

Increase security and complianceEnable granular network segmentation to minimize the risk of security breaches and unauthorized access.

Optimize and simplify complex network configurationsDevelop a virtual network creation flow by designing a user-friendly interface that simplifies complex network configurations, allowing users to easily create and manage virtual networks.

Improve user experience Ensure consistent and high-quality connectivity for end-users, enhancing their experience and satisfaction.

User personas

Alex, 35 years

Network Engineer

Goals:

Design and implement scalable network architectures.
Ensure network reliability and performance.
Stay updated with the latest networking technologies and trends.

Challenges:

Managing complex network configurations and deployments.
Troubleshooting network issues quickly and efficiently.
Balancing between maintaining current infrastructure and integrating new technologies.

Needs:

Tools for automating network configuration and management.
Detailed documentation and training materials for Cisco SDA.
Robust monitoring and analytics to track network performance and issues.

Technologies used:

Cisco DNA Center
Cisco ISE (Identity Services Engine)
Various Cisco switches and routers

Priya, 42 years

IT Manager

Goals:

Oversee the overall IT infrastructure and strategy.
Ensure the security and compliance of the network.
Optimize IT operations to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Challenges:

Managing a diverse team with varying skill sets.
Justifying IT investments to executive leadership.
Keeping up with rapid technological changes and cybersecurity threats.

Needs:

Comprehensive reports and dashboards for network performance and security.
Case studies and ROI analyses for SDA implementation.
Training programs to upskill the IT team on new technologies.

Technologies used:

Cisco DNA Center
Cisco Secure Network Analytics (Stealthwatch)
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems

Jordan Lee, 29 years

Security Analyst

Goals:

Protect the network from cybersecurity threats.
Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Implement and manage network security policies.

Challenges:

Identifying and responding to security incidents in real-time.
Keeping up with the latest security threats and vulnerabilities.
Balancing security measures with network performance.

Needs:

Advanced threat detection and response tools.
Integration between security tools and network management systems.
Continuous security training and certifications.

Technologies used:

Cisco ISE (Identity Services Engine)
Cisco Umbrella
Cisco SecureX

Low-fidelity exploration

By collaborating with developers and design team, I prepared a low-fidelity prototype outlining the main flow for managing virtual networks, including the topology/table view and advanced filters.

High-fidelity exploration

After the low-fidelity, I proceeded to the next step in which I designed a high-fidelity prototype and got team feedback.

Added Virtual Network (VN) creation flow

Collaborated with network engineers and stakeholders to gather insights and identify challenges in the existing VN creation process, then developed a new flow to address these issues. I designed a user-friendly interface that simplifies complex network configurations, making it easier for users to create and manage virtual networks.

Conducted a design review with the Cohesion team

Led an in-depth design review session with the Cohesion team, where we meticulously discussed and examined each page to ensure that all UI elements were in alignment with our design library. This review process was crucial for maintaining visual and functional consistency across all Cisco products. We focused on identifying potential discrepancies and ensured that our design standards were upheld, contributing to a seamless user experience.

Cisco (SDA) from a UX perspective

User-Centric DesignOur team highlighted the intuitive design of SDA’s user interface, which simplifies complex configurations and empowers users to manage networks with ease. This reduces the learning curve and enhances productivity.

Efficient AutomationWe noted the value of SDA’s automation capabilities in streamlining routine tasks, minimizing manual effort, and reducing the potential for errors. This automation allows users to focus on strategic network management activities.

Clear Insights and AnalyticsTeam discussions underscored the importance of SDA's advanced analytics and clear, actionable dashboards. These features enable users to quickly grasp network performance metrics and make informed decisions.