When the Dutch national centre for research software wanted a new website and communications strategy, I worked with their team and incumbent agency to refresh their online and external communications presence.
The Challenge
With a new website project stalling and months overdue, and a communications program running off course during the pandemic, I was brought in during a period of crisis for the organisation, to get things back on track.
The Strategy
Engaging stakeholders extensively from the start, I looked to the project plan and resources. Drilling down to root causes, it turns out there was a misalignment between available resources/skills on the agency side and capacity and expectations on the client side. With an agile approach, I managed for flexibility and iterative progress, while getting to work on a robust communication plan to reinstate stakeholder trust and start communicating consistently externally once again.
The Solution
In the website redesign aspect of this project, I co-created a digital experience that not only resonates with target audiences but also drives business objectives forward. Through thorough research and analysis, I dug deep into the industry landscape and understanding user personas to inform every design decision. With a throroughly planned strategy, I mapped out the site structure, navigation, and content flow to ensure a seamless user journey. From wireframing to visual design, I worked with the eScience Center’s agency of record to refine every element, from colours and typography to imagery and branding, ensuring that they align with brand identity and usability standards. During development, I also championed the need for a responsive, accessible, and visually impactful website that performs across all devices. Through rigorous testing and quality assurance, we were able to guarantee a smooth launch with an internal event.
The result
The new eScienceCenter brand colour scheme and website launched on time with fanfare, alongside a range of refreshed brand assets from a new logo to photography, which are still in place to this day. To support launch internally and to key customers, I developed a series of collectible mugs with domain-specific quotes which have been highly covetable among staff and partners.
Sasha helped us get our communications back on track again during a difficult period in the midst of the pandemic. For his sensible advice and pragmatic approach I’ll be forever grateful! The work we’re doing is still based on his legacy, despite the relatively brief time he stayed with us. One of the many things he did was create mottos that figure on the fancy mugs we give to our partners. Those mugs have become collector’s items, which just about says it all…. – Joris van Eijnatten, CEO, eScienceCenter
