Cambridge Local First | Nonprofit
Improving CLF's online footprint by giving it a new look and making its website more interesting so that it can better help the community.
Web Design
Overview:
Cambridge Local First is a non-profit network dedicated to supporting locally owned businesses. They want to strengthen the local economy through public education, policy advocacy, and direct business support. However, many users were unaware of CLF and how to engage with them. The existing content lacked clarity, with vague content and a confusing navigation structure that made it difficult for businesses and community members to find relevant information and take action.
Objectives & Goals
I set our objectives and goals from the beginning to see our path better.
Improve the website to better serve local businesses and the community.
Shift the focus to user needs for easier engagement.
Simplify access to programs and resources.
Enhance clarity and usability to increase member participation.
Create a stronger visual identity to better communicate CLF’s purpose and establish trust with users.
Challenge
The website needed a change because outdated information cluttered the pages, the navigation was confusing, and the membership log-in process wasn’t clear. The event calendar was barely functional, and finding businesses felt like a chore. To encourage local spending, they wanted to create a clear brand identity, and a user friendly digital platform to attract new members.
Solution
I redesigned website to clearly communicate CLF’s mission and show proof of CLF’s impact. To make local events more accessible, I created a calendar that shows upcoming events. I also simplified the membership process to make it easier for new members to join. Finally, I bring attention to CLF’s networking and social opportunities because knowing that the local community values these connections and that they could help bring in more participants.
Drive the case study with insights, not process. Despite weeks of research and development, my first version of this case study was cluttered with unnecessary text instead of weaving everything into a cohesive narrative- asking, "How does this fit into a bigger picture?" So, I trimmed down the text and structured my case study around key points.
