Genotype Report Redesign

Phylos provides genetic data and tools to help cultivators make informed breeding decisions. While the underlying genotype data was scientifically robust, the existing genotype report was difficult for users to interpret and slow to navigate, especially on smaller screens. I proposed, designed, and implemented a redesigned genotype report focused on clarity, responsiveness, and ease of understanding, without simplifying or obscuring the underlying data.

Problem

The existing genotype report exposed accurate genetic information but placed a high cognitive burden on users.

Key issues included:

• Dense presentation of complex genetic data
• Limited visual hierarchy and guidance
• Poor responsiveness on smaller screens
• Difficulty comparing or scanning results
• Heavy reliance on prior domain knowledge to interpret meaning

As a result, users struggled to quickly understand what the data was telling them, limiting the report’s practical value in real-world decision making.

Solution

I redesigned the genotype report around comprehension first, treating the report as an interpretive tool rather than a raw data dump.

The solution focused on:

• Reorganizing data to emphasize patterns and meaning over volume
• Introducing clearer visual structure and grouping
• Designing responsive layouts that worked across devices
• Improving readability without altering scientific accuracy
• Ensuring interactions felt fast and predictable

The implementation balanced data density with clarity, allowing users to explore details progressively instead of confronting everything at once.

Outcome

The redesigned report made genotype data significantly easier to understand and use.

Observed outcomes included:

• Improved readability and scanability
  Users could quickly identify key genetic traits and differences.
• Better responsiveness across devices
  The report became usable on tablets and smaller screens where it previously was not.
• Reduced cognitive load
  Users no longer needed deep familiarity with the data model to interpret results.
• Stronger alignment between data and user intent
  The report supported real breeding decisions rather than just displaying information.

The redesign was published publicly and highlighted by Phylos as a meaningful improvement to how genetic data was communicated to users. View a live example.

Visuals