Goals That Actually Get Updated
I led the design of Rise's goals management feature, expanding their performance management module. My challenge was designing a system where companies and employees could set and track goals while integrating seamlessly into existing workflows.
Working with two developers, an engineering manager, and the VP of Product over three months, I focused on making goal setting feel natural, not like another administrative task. Custom data visualization charts were also built in the process.
I started with user research, interviewing seven users who wanted to create goals, share them with managers, update progress, and have everything visible during reviews. One user told me goal setting was paper-based and disconnected from the review process. I conducted a competitive analysis, tearing down how other platforms handled goal creation. This helped me identify established patterns, spot gaps, and find opportunities to design something better.
Instead of a standalone goals module, I embedded goals into weekly check-ins. I designed flows where employees could update progress naturally as part of their existing routine. Managers received updates without chasing anyone and could respond directly in context.
