Overview

BBJ Configurator offers a streamlined way to purchase a Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), designed exclusively for the BBJ 737-7 model. This tool allows customers to select from a range of pre-designed cabin layouts, providing an efficient and accessible alternative to fully bespoke configurations. By choosing from these pre-configured layouts, clients can simplify the customization process while still achieving a luxurious, functional cabin suited to various needs, whether for private use, corporate travel, or executive functions. This new tool ensures a turn-key BBJ experience at a fixed price, making it easier and faster for customers to acquire a fully tailored BBJ 737-7 without the lengthy design and planning phase typical of custom jets. It’s an ideal solution for those who value both luxury and convenience, with the assurance of a high-quality interior ready to meet the most discerning expectations.

Challenges

One of the main challenges in developing this customization tool was resizing and aligning each pre-designed room layout to fit perfectly within the BBJ 737-7 jet mockup. Using Figma, along with detailed layout graphics provided by the client, I meticulously adjusted each layout to adhere precisely to the BBJ’s dimensions. Ensuring that all room elements, from lounges to conference areas, aligned seamlessly within the aircraft’s specifications was essential for both aesthetics and functionality. Each component had to be carefully scaled and positioned to maintain a balanced look and create a cohesive flow across the entire interior. This precise alignment was crucial to achieving smooth transitions between layouts when switching configurations, resulting in a polished, realistic experience that captures the high level of luxury expected in a BBJ.

Research

In researching for this project, I examined competitor customization tools as well as automotive customization platforms from brands like Ford and Jeep. My goal was to create an interface that felt intuitive and easy to use, inspired by the straightforward design and functionality seen in these tools. The focus was on simplicity to prevent users from feeling overwhelmed by too many choices or complex controls, while still offering an elegant design that reflected the sophistication of a BBJ interior. By integrating these principles, I aimed to create a user-friendly tool that balances functionality and luxury, making customization an enjoyable and seamless experience.

Design Process

The design process for this BBJ configurator was particularly interesting, as it diverged significantly from the rest of the website with a bold blue background intended to make it stand out. The client specifically requested this distinctive look, so my challenge was to create a design that felt cohesive with the company’s brand while taking advantage of this new color palette to innovate. To achieve this, I decided to maintain the background grid seen across the website’s components, such as the range map and plane features, to ensure visual consistency. For selecting style options, I incorporated color-themed buttons that harmonized with the blue backdrop while keeping the design elegant and user-friendly. The result was a unique and visually engaging configurator that met the client’s vision, and they loved the look and distinctiveness of the design.

Results

The configurator achieved the client’s goal of creating a distinctive and engaging experience. The use of consistent design elements, like the background grid and color-themed buttons, ensured that the tool remained in line with the company’s branding while also introducing innovation through the new color scheme. The client was thrilled with the outcome, appreciating both the elegance and uniqueness of the design. Overall, the tool successfully provided an intuitive, interactive, and elegant solution for customizing a BBJ, enhancing the user experience while maintaining the luxury feel expected from such a prestigious brand.