Paycheck Comparison
Overview
I was the lead designer on this project. My research, design iterations, and strategic planning directly contributed to the development of a new feature called "Comparison." Released in early 2025.
TIMELINE
August 2023 – October 2025
ROLE
Lead Product Designer — user research, design, project management
TEAM
Sr. UX Researcher (advisor for phase 1-2)
Sr. Product Designer (me)
TECH STACK
React and PHP
Challenge
Understand why users are confused by the meaning of the labels on “Approve My Check” and reduce the number employee inquiries.
User Need
Employee users in general have a limited understanding of their paychecks and rely on the system to clearly explain all the calculations that result in their net pay.
Business Need
The client’s HR representatives require a reduction in inquiries about paycheck calculations so they can run payroll efficiently.
Outcome
My research directly led to the creation of a new feature called “Comparison.” Our early discovery research expanded the general knowledge of our users and their understanding of their paychecks. This research helped shape several other features in general payroll and beyond.
User Outcome
Users had a greater understanding of the paycheck calculations and requested help less frequently. Adding context to the amount in the label by adding the word “difference” literally made all the difference in user understanding!
Business Outcome
The client’s HR representatives received fewer inquiries about paycheck calculations and were able to run payroll more efficiently.
18
A/B Tests
63
Hours of
Unmoderated Tests
25
Hours of User Interviews
Research Method
The research was conducted in three phases using multiple methods.
Phase 1 – Discovery
The UX researcher and I conducted unmoderated tests to discover how employees in North America and Europe understand their paychecks. Additionally, the UX researcher interviewed several clients to gather insights from the HR admin perspective.
Phase 2 – UI Testing
I completed 18 cycles of unmoderated A/B testing, analyzing the responses and iterating based on the results.
Phase 3 – Validation
I developed and conducted rounds of user interviews to validate the designs and functionality for the new “Comparison” feature.
I analyzed, synthesized, and documented findings from each of the three phases using a variety of techniques: affinity mapping, rainbow charts, and “think aloud” (users narrate their actions).