The Catalyst UX Framework: Sustained User Research with Empirical Insights for Complex GIS Systems

This paper presents the Catalyst UX framework, a five-stage participatory design process developed to support the creation of highly technical Geographic Information System (GIS) platforms. GIS user experience can suffer from steep learning curves, fragmented workflows, and declining engagement once development shifts toward technical implementation. Catalyst UX addresses this challenge through sustained engagement with domain experts across workshops, a Technical Working Group (TWG), individual interviews, usability testing, and product launch activities. The framework was implemented during the development of a water data observatory integrating 21 datasets for hydrology and water resource management. This paper discusses qualitative and quantitative findings from a mixed-methods usability study ( n = 12) demonstrating a 93% task completion rate and a System Usability Scale (SUS) score of 60 for the minimum viable product. Results suggest that continuous expert engagement improved feature prioritization, reduced scope creep, and preserved alignment between system architecture and analytical workflows in GIS environments.