The Context

A Canadian educational institution recognized the need to modernize its digital presence to better serve students, faculty, and stakeholders. The existing website was outdated, difficult to navigate, and lacked integration with essential systems, hindering user experience and operational efficiency. The institution sought a comprehensive website redesign to align with contemporary web standards, improve accessibility, and integrate seamlessly with internal platforms.

Challenges

The primary challenges included:

• User Experience: The existing website's navigation was unintuitive, making it difficult for users to find information efficiently.

• Content Management: The outdated CMS limited the institution's ability to update content promptly, leading to outdated information being displayed.

• Integration: Lack of integration with internal systems such as the Learning Management System (LMS) and Student Information System (SIS) resulted in fragmented user experiences.

• Accessibility: The website did not meet current accessibility standards, potentially excluding users with disabilities.

Task

The project aimed to:

• Redesign the Website: Develop a modern, responsive design that reflects the institution's brand and values.

• Implement a Robust CMS: Adopt a user-friendly CMS to empower staff to manage content efficiently.

• Enhance Navigation: Reorganize site structure for intuitive navigation, enabling users to access information with minimal clicks.

• Ensure Accessibility: Comply with WCAG 2.1 AA standards to make the website accessible to all users.

• Integrate Systems: Seamlessly connect the website with internal platforms like the LMS and SIS for a unified user experience.

Technology Stack

• Content Management System (CMS): WordPress with custom theme development for flexibility and ease of content updates.

• Frontend Technologies: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, and Bootstrap for responsive design and cross-browser compatibility.

• Backend Technologies: PHP for server-side scripting, integrated with the CMS for dynamic content management.

• Database: MySQL for robust data storage and retrieval.

• Hosting Environment: Cloud-based hosting with scalable resources to handle varying traffic loads and ensure high availability.

• Security Measures: Implementation of SSL certificates, regular security audits, and adherence to best practices to protect user data and institutional information.

• Accessibility Compliance: Design and development aligned with WCAG 2.1 AA standards to ensure inclusivity for all users.

Result

The redesigned website delivered significant improvements:

• Improved User Engagement: Enhanced navigation and responsive design led to increased user satisfaction and longer site visits.

• Efficient Content Management: The new CMS allowed staff to update content swiftly, ensuring information remained current.

• Integrated Systems: Users experienced a cohesive journey with integrated access to learning resources and student information.

• Accessibility Achieved: Compliance with accessibility standards broadened the website's reach and inclusivity.

• Positive Feedback: Stakeholders praised the modern design and improved functionality, reinforcing the institution's commitment to excellence.