Case Study: Ministry of Awesome Multisite Website Design and Branding
New Media Design was tasked with developing a comprehensive multisite website design solution for the Ministry of Awesome, a prominent startup acceleration organisation based in New Zealand. This project involved the creation of four distinct websites under one multisite network. The objective was to revamp the online presence of Ministry of Awesome and three of their other website offerings and provide a seamless experience for its audience and staff.
Client Overview
Client: Ministry of Awesome
Industry: Startup Acceleration
Location: New Zealand
Project Scope
1. Multisite Website Design Architecture
The project began with the strategic planning of a multisite architecture. Each of the four websites served a unique purpose within the Ministry of Awesome ecosystem, catering to different aspects of their operations:
- Main Ministry of Awesome Website: The primary site showcased the Ministry's mission, programs, and success stories.
- Founder Catalyst: Focused on the accelerator programs offered by Ministry of Awesome, including detailed program information and application processes.
- Electrify Aotearoa: An interactive portal for promoting and managing startup-related events, workshops, and seminars.
- Electrify Accelerator: A platform for sharing valuable resources, blog articles, and insights relevant to startups and entrepreneurship.
2. Branding Guide
A comprehensive branding guide was created for Founder Catalyst, outlining logo usage guidelines, color palettes, typography choices, and design elements. This guide ensured consistent branding across all materials and platforms.
LOGO, VISUAL IDENTITY AND BRANDING DESIGN
2. Design and Branding
New Media Design worked closely with Ministry of Awesome to ensure that each of the multisite website design's aligned with their brand identity. Customised themes and templates were developed to maintain consistency while allowing for unique site elements where necessary.
3. Development and Integration
The development phase involved creating and customising WordPress websites for each segment of the multisite network. Key functionalities included:
- User-friendly navigation and responsive design for optimal viewing across devices.
- Integration of startups and mentors with a filter and search facility
- Social media integration to enhance online engagement.
- SEO optimisation to improve search engine visibility.
4. Training and Knowledge Transfer
As part of the project, New Media Design provided comprehensive training sessions to the Ministry of Awesome team. This training empowered their staff to manage and update content on the multisite network effectively. Topics covered included content creation, website maintenance, and utilising the multisite features.
Founder Catalyst - Logo and Branding Guide
Logo Redesign
New Media Design crafted a fresh and vibrant logo for Founder Catalyst, reflecting the organisation's dynamic and forward-thinking approach.
2. Branding Guide
A comprehensive branding guide was created for Founder Catalyst, outlining logo usage guidelines, color palettes, typography choices, and design elements. This guide ensured consistent branding across all materials and platforms.
Challenges for a Multisite Website Design
- Ensuring a seamless user experience across four distinct websites within the multisite network.
- Maintaining consistent branding while allowing for site-specific design elements.
- Integrating detailed filtering systems to allow for optimal user experience
- Ensuring optimal performance and security for all sites.
Results
The multisite solution delivered by New Media Design successfully addressed the Ministry of Awesome's objectives:
- Streamlined Information Flow: The multisite network allowed for better organisation of content, making it easier for users to find relevant information.
- Enhanced User Engagement: The searchable databases of startups, mentors and resources contributed to increased engagement and usability.
- Improved Brand Visibility: A cohesive design approach and improved SEO strategies led to increased online visibility and recognition.
- Empowered Team: Ministry of Awesome's team acquired the skills needed to manage and update the websites independently.
Conclusion
New Media Design's expertise in design, Wordpress optimisation and the unique needs of a startup hub multisite for Ministry of Awesome transformed their online presence. The project resulted in a seamless, user-friendly experience for their audience, improved brand recognition, and an empowered in-house team capable of managing the websites effectively.
The collaboration between New Media Design and Ministry of Awesome exemplifies our commitment to delivering innovative web solutions tailored to each client's unique needs.
