Atlassian is once again rolling out a new user interface for Jira Cloud, and this time, it looks like a permanent shift. Over the years, we've seen multiple iterations of UI updates, but the latest one seems to be here to stay—and for good reason. It’s cleaner, more intuitive, and offers a smoother user experience. But as with any major update, it brings along a set of challenges—especially for Jira Admins and Consultants.
Let’s dive into what this change means for us and how we can help our users transition smoothly.
The New UI: A Welcome Upgrade
Personally, I find the new UI to be a major improvement over previous versions. The sidebar, which has been revamped multiple times, now feels more aligned with modern design standards. While the update is a positive one, it does impact user workflows and expectations, which is where our role as Jira experts becomes crucial.
The Admin’s Responsibility: Education and Enablement
Whether you're a full-time Jira admin, a consultant, or part of a support team, the reality is the same—users need guidance. Many of them will log in one day and suddenly feel lost due to visual and navigational changes.
So what can you do?
1. Start With Communication
Communicate changes early and often. Even a small proactive message can add immense value. Preparing your teams or clients for what’s coming shows leadership and foresight.
2. Internal Documentation
If you’re embedded in the organization (full-time or in a long-term role), go the extra mile:
- Update internal Confluence pages
- Include annotated screenshots
- Create quick-reference guides for common tasks
- Maintain a changelog for major Jira updates
3. Record Custom Walkthrough Videos
Not everyone reads documentation, but most people will watch a quick video. Record short, targeted videos explaining the new UI layout, common navigation patterns, or how to perform basic actions under the new setup. These can be hosted on internal portals or shared via email or chat.
4. Engage with the Communications Team
If your organization has an internal communication team, collaborate with them to broadcast these updates. If not, simply use company-wide channels like Slack or Teams to spread awareness.
- Send internal newsletters
- Highlight key changes in monthly updates
- Notify stakeholders directly
This not only helps users—it ensures visibility for the work your team is doing.
5. Host Jira Clinics or Office Hours
Consider setting up weekly or monthly Jira Clinics—open Q&A sessions where users can drop in and ask questions. It’s informal, low-pressure, and highly effective. You can:
- Send a recurring calendar invite
- Let users join voluntarily
- Provide quick tips, answer FAQs, and guide them to documentation
6. Create a Jira Support Channel
Set up a channel like #ask-jira on Slack or Teams. While it shouldn’t replace your ticketing system, it can be a place for:
- Quick guidance (under 2 minutes of effort)
- Redirection to knowledge bases or help articles
- Encouraging users to raise tickets for complex issues
The Bigger Picture: Promote Your Work
As Jira Admins, we often work behind the scenes—but we’re managing one of the most critical tools in any modern organization. Jira runs projects, tracks issues, and keeps teams aligned. Own that.
Make sure your stakeholders and leadership team know:
- What changes are coming
- How you’re proactively supporting users
- How Jira is evolving to meet the organization's needs
It’s not just about user education—it’s also about visibility and recognition for the effort you and your team put in.
Final Thoughts
The new Jira UI is a step forward, but it requires admins and consultants to step up. Communicate, document, support, and stay visible. Your users depend on Jira, and Jira depends on you.
Take this opportunity not just to adapt—but to lead.
Have thoughts on the new UI or tips for supporting Jira users? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments.
#Jira #Atlassian #ProjectManagement #ChangeManagement #JiraAdmin
Video Link :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ByOTVqCgVU&t=17s