Fast, practical project designing a clear API usage and key-management experience inside an existing system.
API Management & Usage Dashboard
Project type
Product Design · UX/UI
Date
2025
Tools
Figma · Tailwind/DaisyUI · UX Writing
Context & Challenge
Designing fast, clear workflows for technical users
This project required rapid delivery and clear decision-making. The goal was to surface critical API data instantly and reduce cognitive load, enabling developers to manage usage and costs without friction.
To support real-world technical workflows, a strong API dashboard must provide:
Authentication
Developers need a secure and simple way to create, rotate, and revoke API keys without friction or ambiguity.
Real-time Usage
Clear visibility into request volume, credits, and costs to prevent unexpected billing or performance issues.
Rate Limits
Warnings and thresholds that proactively prevent failures or overages, especially in production.
Roles & Access
Permission control for teams working across the same environment, enabling safe collaboration.
Clear Navigation
Logical information structure that reduces cognitive load and keeps actions easy to find.
These insights guided the dashboard layout, navigation, and visual hierarchy.
What makes an API management dashboard truly effective?
From competitive analysis and developer feedback, I identified the essential elements required to design a fast, intuitive API management experience that supports real usage and technical workflows.
Navigation structure
Defining a clear information hierarchy and navigation structure
A structured navigation system groups related actions, reduces cognitive load, and helps users move confidently across complex environments.
API Keys Management
Fast and reliable workflow for API key management
Users needed a clear and efficient way to generate, rotate, and revoke API keys without digging through complex panels or documentation.
I designed a simple table-first layout with actionable controls, real-time status indicators, and inline warnings to minimize friction and reduce critical mistakes.
Key decisions
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Inline creation
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Status at a glance
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In-row quick actions
API Usage Dashboard
Clear insight into usage, costs, and budget performance
Real-time visibility into consumption and billing helps reduce friction and prevents unexpected costs. The dashboard surfaces the most critical information upfront to support fast decision-making and budget control.
Key decisions
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Inline warnings for early problem detection
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Real-time visual chart to replace manual logs
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Billing details surfaced without extra navigation
