ClearSpend Web App

Overview

ClearSpend is a specialized spend control and expense management platform designed for small businesses. The project evolved from concept to full launch between 2021-2022, with initial proof of concept completed by Christmas 2021 and official launch in February 2022. As the lead designer, I worked closely with multiple teams including marketing, branding, mobile product, and leadership while establishing a comprehensive design system.

Challenge

The primary challenges included:

• Starting with only 10% of existing product materials (some old wireframes, layout attempts, and vision documents)
• Aggressive timeline requirements (5 months to soft launch, 3 months to hard launch)
• Need to create a system that required minimal human intervention
• Complex data structure requirements for budget management
• Accessibility issues with brand colors
• Balancing information density with usability
• Creating scalable solutions for future multi-account functionality

Solution

The solution was implemented through several key components:

1. Dashboard Design

• Created a 10,000ft view for managers and employees
• Implemented intuitive data visualization
• Balanced screen width with information density
• Developed clear visual hierarchy through careful use of spacing and grouping

1. Allocations Management

• Implemented a parent-child budget structure
• Set strategic limitations (e.g., 5-level depth maximum)
• Created clear visual separation using color, borders, and rounded corners

1. Side Panel Pattern

• Developed a consistent UI pattern for data editing across the platform
• Created a framework for easy design and prototyping of future panels
• Consolidated various data editing methods into a coherent system

1. Multi-Account Design

• Designed searchable client lists with pinned favorites
• Implemented layered information architecture
• Created specialized dashboards for different user types (e.g., accountants vs. business managers)

Impact

The project delivered several significant outcomes:

• Complete product transformation from concept to launch in 8 months
• Creation of a comprehensive design system that enabled future scaling
• Development of developer-ready documentation
• Establishment of consistent UI patterns across the product
• Successful implementation of key user flows:

  - Owner onboarding

  - Money allocation for employees

  - Account card request and approval

  - Expense management

  - Report generation

• Creation of a flexible framework that supported both immediate needs and future expansion

The team successfully delivered a user-friendly, scalable solution to met the needs of small businesses while maintaining the flexibility for growth.