Introduction
The website redesign was needed to efficiently showcase the organization's commitment to sisterhood, scholarship, and service while reflecting the brand, providing easy member access, and organizing content with intuitive navigation.
Problem
The website had three critical problems that significantly impacted user experience: excessive content lacking proper organization, an inaccessible membership portal, and an illogical layout with unclear navigation. These issues created a disorganized user experience where the member login was difficult to locate, resulting in high bounce rates and user abandonment. The poor website performance forced the organization to rely on multiple communication channels for effective information distribution, creating inefficiencies in their outreach efforts.
The comprehensive website overhaul will address these fundamental usability issues, improving user retention and overall experience while enabling the organization to expand its community service initiatives with a more effective digital presence.
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The more deeply you understand the problem, the more likely you are to land on an elegant and effective solution.
Iteration 1
Stakeholder interviews revealed the need for an engaging website that could effectively deliver extensive information through a well-structured design. They emphasized the requirement for a menu with specific organizational categories. Based on these insights, the research phase expanded to include a comprehensive website audit, user surveys, and card sorting to identify current strengths and weaknesses.
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Whitespace is like air — it is necessary for the design to breathe.
Iteration 2
After analyzing several comparable organizations, we identified key success factors for this type of service group. The most critical element is providing clear information about national programs and their corresponding service areas. A website audit of the current website revealed limited use of familiar user interface elements such as search bars, navigation menus, visual hierarchy, forms, and call-to-action buttons. Based on these findings, we had sufficient information to develop an information architecture that organizes and structures content about programs, services, and mission in a way that is easily understood and navigated, as well as to create effective user flows for the site.
Solution
The approach was clear-cut — modernize the website design, integrate a prominent member portal, streamline the layout, and structure essential information effectively.
Impacts
This visually appealing redesigned website has boosted member engagement, increased daily traffic, and now serves as a model for other chapters internationally.
Strengthened Community Engagement: This new user-friendly website makes it easier for community members to discover volunteer opportunities, understand how to get involved, and connect with the organization's mission.
Streamlined Operations and Communication: The redesigned website has streamlined operations by automating administrative processes such as online form submissions, event registrations, and information sharing. Its integrated communication features enable more effective ongoing engagement with both stakeholders and members.
Enhanced Fundraising and Resource Development: A new compelling online presence has helped donors understand the organization's impact and makes giving convenient through secure online donation systems.
