UX: FlytBase’s Secret Sauce

Last updated on
October 17, 2024
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Let’s be real, B2B software doesn’t have a reputation for being fun or easy to use. But at FlytBase, we’re out to change that narrative! We believe our secret sauce is in our UX. FlytBase isn’t just another powerful enterprise platform for drone operations; it’s a platform where user experience is the priority—and our customers love us for it.

Picture this: a product that not only powers critical drone operations but makes every interaction feel smooth, intuitive, and even enjoyable sometimes. That’s the FlytBase difference. Let’s dive into how we blend complex features with seamless user experience to bring the future of drone tech to life.

Breaking the B2B mold


If you’ve ever used traditional B2B software, you might’ve noticed it’s, well, not so user-friendly. The industry is notorious for prioritizing functionality over user experience. We want to flip this script. Instead of overwhelming UIs and intricate workflows, we’re building an interface that feels intuitive and easy to navigate. It’s our way of challenging the norm and bringing a breath of fresh air to B2B. Also, there is an additional challenge when it comes to designing for safety critical systems like ours. We don’t have a playbook to refer to so we are figuring out everything from first principles, and that comes with a mixed feeling of excitement and sometimes even frustration!

Why UX matters for critical software

We know how a well-designed UX can reduce errors, improve decision-making, and increase overall system reliability. A good example of UX failure in critical systems is the Three Mile Island (TMI) incident. A simple thing such as indicating the right state of the system, reducing the number of controls, and grouping them according to similar functionality would’ve prevented a catastrophe! They essentially took Hick’s Law which states that the greater the number and complexity of a choice the longer it takes to make a decision and made a joke out of it. Quoting Don Norman “They spent so much time designing the technical parts, and none on understanding what it was like to work there”

In fast-paced, high-stakes situations like managing multiple drone safety alerts, it’s essential to keep things simple yet informative as situational awareness is critical here, all the while ensuring that users feel at ease and in control. To ensure this, our team continually gathers feedback, and refines our platform, creating an experience that feels as reliable as it is user-friendly.

In this niche domain, it’s easy to get caught up in the power of the tech itself. But we believe that a truly great product is one that feels human. Humanizing tech products is about designing interactions that feel intuitive and, most importantly, understandable. This user-centered design also builds trust, a crucial element in UX. When the technology feels comprehensible and truly useful, users are more likely to rely on it in critical moments. 

Our vision for UX in drone autonomy


We see UX as the heart of future drone tech. As drones move into new fields, from logistics to agriculture to emergency response, our UX strategy will evolve with it. Imagine interfaces tailored to different user needs, with AI to anticipate actions, offer suggestions and guide users through tasks. It’s not just about functionality; it’s about creating an experience that feels natural and empowering.

In the long run, we aim to set the standards for human-drone (if you get the pun) interaction, leading with a user-first design philosophy that makes drones feel like a natural extension of your intentions. We believe that thoughtful design has the power to shape the future of technology, and we’re here to drive that change. 

So, here’s to rethinking B2B UX and setting a new standard for critical softwares. At FlytBase, we’re not just building software; we’re creating experiences that empower users and create a new standard for user experience. 


Arpita Shinde

Here's what Arpita has to say about herself: What started as an experiment to move away from fashion design has turned out to be one of the best decisions of my professional life. Collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds and understanding different perspectives is arguably the most enjoyable part of my role as a Senior Product Designer at FlytBase.

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