How we overhauled GitLab navigation

This post details the iterative process of overhauling GitLab's navigation based on user feedback and research. It describes the shift from validating proposed solutions to revalidating the underlying problems, studying user behavior through diary studies, and anchoring the redesign to three key themes: minimizing overwhelm, orienting users, and picking up where they left off. The post also covers user mental models for sidebar organization through card sorting studies, iterative design concept evaluation, and a phased launch with internal testing, an opt-in external launch, and ongoing surveys. Key improvements include task-based sidebar categories, the ability to pin items, and a more approachable interface, with ongoing iterations planned based on user feedback regarding pinning functionality, color contrast, and discoverability of new features.