H&W Computer Systems
Provides quality business software solutions and services that meet the complex business and IT goals of corporations
Client Overview
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The current H&W website falls short in accurately representing their brand and lacks a strong impact on customers. A redesign and rebranding effort are essential to elevate their online presence, enhance customer engagement, and future-proof the company.
By aligning the website with a new brand identity and modernizing its features, H&W can effectively connect with their audience and ensure sustainable success in the long term.
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Identify areas where the current website falls short of user expectations
Understand client expectations for the rebranding process
Design a prototype and obtain client approval
Finalize the design
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2024 · Four weeks
Process
Top User Pain Points
Poor & Inconsistent Navigation
All navigational elements were placed in a bounding box on the left side of the website, disregarding UX principles and the more commonly seen navigation bar. This created navigational issues, as page links appeared differently depending on the user’s location within the website.
Outdated Fixed Layout & Poor Responsiveness
The original desktop website used an outdated fixed-width design, with the entire site displayed as a square in the center of the page – intended for old, square displays. This resulted in inefficient use of screen space, a poor mobile experience, and a negative, outdated brand perception.
Missing Footer
The website was missing a footer, meaning users lacked quick access to key links, contact information, and trust signals (certifications or awards). A footer is an essential aspect of web design, providing a consistent space for users to access important features.
Successes & Challenges
Successes
With this redesign, creating a dynamic, current, and future-proof design and layout was essential. The new website allows content to be displayed efficiently, without being constrained by the small, original square layout.
Additionally, ensuring a consistent navigational experience across both desktop and mobile improved brand perception and usability. The client can now display more information at once, but in a more organized and effective manner.
Challenges
One of the primary challenges was creating a visually appealing and user-friendly experience with the limited content and information available at the start. Later in the design process, I gained access to the intended content the client wanted to display.
However, in the beginning, it was challenging to build an interface with the space and intention of expanding it over time. It was a valuable learning experience, and I was able to create a design that can be easily maintained and expanded in the future.
Insights & Impact
Spearheading this redesign from start to finish in collaboration with the Director of Design gave me the creative freedom to experiment with various typography, color schemes, and structural layouts that best fit H&W's new brand.
The website is currently live and has significantly enhanced H&W’s brand identity, visibility, and steadfast reputation among clients. The final design reflects the company’s innovative and recognizable mainframe technology, resulting in a stronger and more impactful online presence.