# Graphic Developer (UI/HMI) - Job Description & Qualification Tasks **Primary Responsibility:** To design and deploy high-quality, intuitive Human-Machine Interface (HMI) graphics that provide building operators with effective visualization, monitoring, and control of the Building Automation System (BAS). **Prerequisites:** - Completion of Field Specialist role with supervisor sign-off - Completion of Bridge Training modules - Minimum 18-24 months experience as Field Specialist - OSHA 40-Hour Construction Safety Certification (maintained) **Estimated Time in Role Before Promotion Eligibility:** 24-36 months **Next Possible Roles:** [[training-structure/roles/senior-field-operations-coordinator]](Dispatch) --- ## Assessment Methods - Practical demonstrations with supervisor observation and sign-off on each key task - Design review by senior developers and Project Managers - User acceptance testing with building operators and clients - Quality control checklist verification (100% compliance required) - Written exam on HMI design principles and data linking (80% passing score) - Client satisfaction scores on graphic usability and aesthetics - Portfolio of completed graphics with before/after examples and user feedback ----------------------------------------------------------------------- **Key Tasks for Qualification** - 1. **Graphic Design & Visualization:** Design a comprehensive system schematic graphic for a central plant (Boilers, Chillers, Pumps) using the approved graphic library. - 2. **Graphic Design & Visualization:** Create at least three custom 3D-style floor plan graphics, placing equipment symbols accurately on the layout. - 3. **Data Linking & Interactivity:** Successfully link all live data points (Analog, Binary, Multi-state) from the controller network to their corresponding visual elements on the graphic. - 4. **Data Linking & Interactivity:** Implement secure, interactive elements (e.g., setpoint changes, mode overrides) ensuring appropriate user permissions are enforced. - 5. **User Experience (UX):** Design a custom dashboard graphic that aggregates key performance indicators (KPIs) like energy consumption and system efficiency trends. - 6. **User Experience (UX):** Ensure all graphics are designed to be responsive, viewing correctly on both desktop monitors and mobile tablets/phones. - 7. **Quality Control:** Conduct a formal quality check, verifying that all links function, graphics are visually consistent, and adhere to client branding guidelines. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- --- ## Required Training Course List 1. **BAS Graphic Development Platform Training:** Mastery of the graphic toolset (Vendor-Specific, e.g., Niagara AX/N4). 2. **Central Plant Schematic Design:** Principles of fluid dynamics visualization and standardized graphic library usage. 3. **Floor Plan Design and Spatial Visualization:** Techniques for creating accurate and aesthetic 2D/3D floor layouts. 4. **BAS Data Point Linking and Tagging:** Procedures for connecting control network points to HMI elements. 5. **Interactive Element Implementation:** Securely configuring control points (setpoints, overrides) and user permission management. 6. **Dashboard Design and KPI Visualization:** Designing effective data aggregation and trending displays. 7. **Responsive Graphic Design:** Ensuring optimal viewing and functionality across desktop, tablet, and mobile interfaces. 8. **Graphic Quality Control and Branding Compliance:** Formal verification checklist and adherence to client standards. 9. **User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Principles:** Best practices for intuitive navigation and operator workflows. --- ## Optional/Advanced Training - Advanced graphic design software (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop) - Web-based HMI development (HTML5, CSS, JavaScript) - Data visualization best practices and chart selection - Color theory and accessibility compliance (WCAG standards) - Animation and dynamic visualization techniques - Custom widget and component development - Building information modeling (BIM) integration - Virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) HMI concepts --- ## Cross-Training Opportunities - Shadow Programmers to understand control logic and data availability - Shadow Network Specialists to understand data communication and latency issues - Attend operator training sessions to observe end-user interactions - Work with Project Managers on graphic scope estimation and timelines - Collaborate with Field Specialists to understand system layout and equipment placement - Review Service Fusion workflows for tracking graphic development milestones - Participate in client design review meetings --- ## Qualification Checklist Before advancing to Senior Field Operations Coordinator, the Graphic Developer must demonstrate: - [ ] Design and deploy graphics for 10+ complete BAS projects - [ ] Create 5+ central plant schematics with full data linking - [ ] Develop 15+ custom floor plan graphics meeting client specifications - [ ] Link 500+ data points correctly with zero linking errors - [ ] Implement secure interactive controls for 10+ projects - [ ] Design 5+ custom dashboards incorporating energy and performance KPIs - [ ] Ensure all graphics pass quality control checklist (100% compliance) for 10 projects - [ ] Pass written exam on HMI design principles (80%+) - [ ] Achieve client satisfaction rating of 4.5/5.0 or higher on graphic usability - [ ] Obtain at least one manufacturer graphics certification - [ ] Mentor Field Specialists on basic HMI navigation and data point concepts - [ ] Receive supervisor sign-off on all 7 key qualification tasks --- ## Timeline Expectations **Typical Duration:** 24-36 months - Months 1-6: Learning graphic development platform, creating basic schematics under supervision - Months 7-12: Developing floor plans and dashboards independently - Months 13-18: Advanced data linking, interactive elements, responsive design - Months 19-30: Complex visualizations, client customization, pursuing certifications - Months 31-36: Mentoring others, design review responsibilities, preparing for dispatch coordinator role **Note:** Progression depends on demonstrated design aptitude, client feedback, attention to detail, certification achievement, and company need for dispatch coordinator capacity. ## Recommended Videos - [HVAC Graphics Design - Tips & Tricks](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fj-0nU3tS9o) - [Niagara 4: Creating a Simple Graphic (PX)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYv_I-m46Fk) - [How To Build a Basic VAV Graphic (Niagara 4)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yp69GgU2m1w)