Planning Data GOV.UK — Interaction Design & Service Design Case Study

Planning Data is a national GOV.UK service created to centralise planning datasets from local authorities across England. As a Senior Interaction Designer working within DLUHC, I contributed to discovery, service design, and usability improvements aligned with the GOV.UK Design System and GDS standards.

This case study outlines my contribution to the discovery and early delivery phases through to usability improvements on the live planning.data.gov.uk service. The work focused on improving data accessibility, simplifying publishing processes, and ensuring alignment with GDS standards.

The challenge

Currently planning data is hidden within local authority websites and DHLUC want to create a Data Platform to put it all in one place.

My responsibilities

I was responsible for conceptualising screens for this initial idea to get purchase from the rest of the department. Alongside a second Interaction designer we worked on improving the existing site and frequently iterating it.

Working closely with a Service Designer to map out the process and touch points. Then with the user researcher to understand the experience of users.

Design approach

1. Create an Engagement Platform

The initial approach was to create an Engagement Platform that encouraged local authorities to upload their data. Check it is accurate and keep it up to date. The second approach was to work with what was already live and make changes to encourage more data to be added and make data faster. Created a sequence of screens to enable local authorities to post their planning data to a National Planning website.

2. Update existing planning data platform to make it easier to use.

• Reviewed the confusing breadcrumbs on the site and replaced it with simple back links
• Mapping and analysis of the existing site planning.data.gov.uk
• Building a GDS prototype of the site and enabled dynamic versioning with GitHub and Heroku
• Made the navigation bar on the map page consistant with the rest of the site
• Updated the phase banner to encourage recruitment to the research panel
• Reviewed search page improvements based on user research and best practice
• Improved main navigation and promoted guidance for publishers

Outcomes & impact

The work improved clarity of navigation, reduced friction in publishing workflows, and aligned the platform more closely with GOV.UK Design System standards. By simplifying interaction patterns and strengthening information architecture, the service became more accessible for both publishers and end users.

GOV.UK Interaction Design Approach

The work followed GOV.UK Service Manual guidance and GDS interaction design principles. Prototypes were developed using the GOV.UK Prototype Kit, iterated through usability testing, and refined in collaboration with service design and user research.

This ensured accessibility compliance, consistent interaction patterns, and alignment with GOV.UK design standards across the Planning Data platform.

Below are a selection of screenshots from the project work and prototype.