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Case Study: DigitalGovernment.org
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Study old site
NSF/Digital Government had a simple web site with little more than overdressed, static "message" pages, a weak database search and poorly organized library of papers. We had less than three months to overhaul it before its previous builder would unplug the server.Screenshot |
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Modernize site with complete redesign
Working with a programmer and a part-time HTML producer, I redesigned the information architecture and graphic identity, optimizing navigability, download speed and clarity. We switched platforms, from outmoded ColdFusion to industry-standard J2EE-compliant Java.Screenshot | Site |
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Make community accessible with revamped database toolset
We re-engineered the NSF database feed, building robust, scalable search tools and adding customization so scientists could post URLs, photos and personal profiles. Screenshot | Site |
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Establish, launch and edit e-mail newsletter
We polled DG researchers about the kind of information they seek on a regular basis, and launched dgOnline, a monthly newsletter with staff-written stories about DG projects, and up-to-date news on relevant projects, grants and publications.Screenshot | Site |
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Install stronger search engine
The previous ColdFusion platform was equipped only with a localized search engine. I studied alternatives and partnered with the main federal portal Firstgov.gov, and later upgraded to Google. Screenshot | Site |
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Reinforce community with topical forums
We installed Jive, a robust, second-party threaded-discussion application, and established forums around Digital Government's core sub-disciplines. Adoption by the community has been slow thus far. Screenshot | Site |