The Tech Policy Design Centre embarked on an ambitious project to enhance its online presence through a comprehensive upgrade of its website and the Global Tech Policy Atlas. Aimed at providing a seamless user experience and expanding the capability to display and manage extensive tech policy data, the project addressed both aesthetic and functional aspects of the digital platform. This case study outlines the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the outcomes of the project, highlighting the collaborative approach and innovative strategies that led to its success.
Project Overview
Client Background
The Tech Policy Design Centre (TPDC) is an independent research organisation dedicated to informing and shaping technology policy. Its digital platform, including the website and the Global Tech Policy Atlas, serves as a critical resource for policymakers, researchers, and the public, offering access to comprehensive tech policy data and insights.
Objectives
The project had two main objectives:
- To provide a visual and functional uplift to the TPDC website, enhancing user experience and content management.
- To overhaul the architecture of the Global Tech Policy Atlas to support high data loads and facilitate information expansion.
Challenges
The project faced several key challenges:
- User Experience: The existing website and Atlas did not meet modern UX standards, leading to difficulties in navigation and information retrieval.
- Performance: High data loads on the Atlas impacted its performance, affecting the user's ability to interact with the map seamlessly.
- Scalability: The Atlas's architecture was not designed to efficiently handle the expansion of tech policy data.
Solutions
User-Centric Design Approach: A user-centric design approach was adopted, focusing on improving the visual appeal and usability of the TPDC website and Atlas. This involved:
- Page and Block Content Enhancements: Updating the layout of seven key website pages and refining content blocks for a more engaging user experience.
- Navigation Bar/Header Redesign: Revamping the website's navigation to ensure a consistent and intuitive user journey.
Atlas Architecture Overhaul
The Atlas received a comprehensive architectural upgrade, focusing on scalability, performance, and user experience:
- API for Data Management: Introduction of an API to serve data on demand, significantly improving map responsiveness and loading times.
- Enhanced Features: Incorporation of interactive filters, data sorting, and the display of jurisdiction borders to improve usability.
- Optimisation for Low-Speed Internet: Implementation of lazy loading and caching strategies to enhance the experience for users with slow internet connections.
- Touch-Enabled Device Support: Adoption of a touch-friendly mapping library to ensure the Atlas is accessible across various devices.
Agile Development Methodology
The project was executed using an Agile development methodology, consisting of phases including Discovery & Strategy, Design, Build, Testing & Content, and Launch. This approach ensured flexibility, allowing for continuous feedback and iterations.
Outcomes
- Visually Appealing and Functional Website: The TPDC website now boasts a modern, user-friendly interface with improved content management capabilities.
- Enhanced Global Tech Policy Atlas: The Atlas features a revamped UI/UX, faster loading times, and enhanced interactivity, supporting an expansive dataset without compromising on performance.
- Improved Access to Tech Policy Resources: Policymakers, researchers, and the public can now easily access and engage with tech policy information, fostering informed decision-making.
Conclusion
The revitalisation of the Tech Policy Design Centre's digital presence marks a significant step forward in making tech policy information more accessible and engaging. By addressing both aesthetic and technical challenges, the project team delivered a platform that not only meets the current needs of its users and encourages engagement but is also poised for future expansion. The successful collaboration between the TPDC and the project team showcases the power of a user-centric approach and innovative solutions in transforming digital experiences.
