Shenandoah University
Role:
Web Designer and Developer
Launched: December 2015
In early 2014 SU hired me as a WordPress Development Specialist. Immediately upon my employment I was tasked with shepherding the redesign and development of its existing WordPress multisite. With a redesign and redevelopment interval of about 1 year, and collaborating with multiple agencies, the Shenandoah site was relaunched in December of 2015.
Shenandoah University’s Website Redesign
Case Study Type 1:
Situation
Shenandoah University needed a comprehensive website overhaul to improve user experience and reflect the institution’s commitment to innovation and excellence. The previous site lacked modern features and a cohesive design, making navigation difficult for prospective students, faculty, and alumni.
Task
The primary task was to collaborate with MGH, a marketing communications agency from Baltimore, to design and develop a user-friendly, visually appealing website using the Genesis framework for WordPress. The site needed to showcase Shenandoah’s diverse programs, facilitate easy access to information, and remain functional and relevant for years to come.
Action
- Collaborative Design: Worked closely with MGH to ensure the design met Shenandoah’s needs. Contributed to the creation of a visually cohesive and engaging layout.
- Development: Utilized the Genesis framework to build a robust, scalable website. Focused on creating an intuitive navigation system and integrating essential features like course listings, faculty profiles, and event calendars.
- User-Centric Approach: Implemented a design that prioritized user experience, making it easy for visitors to find the information they needed quickly.
- Testing and Launch: Conducted thorough testing to ensure the site’s functionality across various devices and browsers. Launched the site in December 2015, providing ongoing support to maintain its performance.
Result
- Improved User Experience: The new website significantly enhanced the user experience, providing easy access to information and a seamless navigation system.
- Recognition: The website’s design quality was recognized with a silver ADDY Award in the Consumer Website category, showcasing the successful collaboration between Shenandoah University’s in-house team and MGH.
- Longevity: The site has remained largely unchanged for nearly nine years, demonstrating the robustness and forward-thinking nature of the design and development process.
Conclusion
By focusing on the needs of Shenandoah University and its stakeholders, PRÜF Creative and MGH delivered a website that not only met but exceeded expectations. The site continues to serve as a vital tool for the university, aiding in recruitment, communication, and engagement with its community.
Case Study Type 2:
Project Overview
Client: Shenandoah University
Location: Winchester, VA
Industry: Higher Education
Introduction
Shenandoah University sought to revamp its website to enhance user experience and better represent its innovative and dynamic academic environment. The goal was to create a modern, intuitive platform that would serve prospective students, current students, faculty, and alumni effectively.
The Challenge
The university’s previous website was outdated and difficult to navigate, making it challenging for users to find essential information. The new site needed to:
• Improve usability and accessibility. • Showcase the university’s diverse programs and events. • Remain relevant and functional for years to come.
The Solution
PRÜF Creative collaborated with MGH, a marketing communications agency, to redesign the website with a focus on user-centric design and robust functionality.
Design and Branding
- Modern Visual Identity: Developed a clean, contemporary design that reflected Shenandoah University’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
- Consistent Branding: Ensured all design elements were aligned with the university’s brand, creating a cohesive and engaging user experience.
Advanced Functionalities
- Genesis Framework: Utilized the Genesis framework for WordPress to build a scalable and easy-to-maintain website.
- User-Friendly Navigation: Implemented an intuitive navigation system to help users find information quickly and easily.
- Dynamic Content: Integrated features such as course listings, faculty profiles, and event calendars to keep the site informative and up-to-date.
Performance Enhancements
- Responsive Design: Ensured the website was fully responsive, providing an optimal viewing experience across all devices.
- SEO Optimization: Implemented SEO best practices to improve the site’s visibility and attract more organic traffic.
Results
- Enhanced User Experience: The redesigned website significantly improved user satisfaction, making it easier for visitors to navigate and find relevant information.
- Industry Recognition: The website won a silver ADDY Award in the Consumer Website category, demonstrating the successful collaboration and the site’s high-quality design.
- Long-Term Relevance: The site has remained largely unchanged for nearly nine years, highlighting its robust design and development.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Shenandoah University, PRÜF Creative, and MGH resulted in a user-friendly, award-winning website that effectively meets the needs of the university’s diverse audience. The site continues to serve as a vital tool for recruitment, communication, and community engagement.
Call to Action
Looking to transform your digital presence? Contact PRÜF Creative today to start your journey towards a user-centric, award-winning website.