Web Design
Centre33 Website Redesign
Revamped Centre33’s website with a focus on accessibility, inclusivity, and a user-friendly experience.
Year :
2025
Industry :
Non-Profit Organization
Client :
Centre33 Kanata
Project Duration :
10 Weeks
Background
This is a client project under the "Applied Projects" course of the Interactive Media Design program. Throughout the ten (10) weeks of the academic term which commenced on January through early April of 2025, we have worked with Centre33, a youth support organization, regarding their website redesign that focuses on accessibility, inclusivity, and usability for 2SLGBTQIA+ community and youth. The project captured 1st Place during the Applied Research Day Showcase at Algonquin College.
Centre33 Kanata, established in 2022, offers a variety of programs and activities for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. These include a drop-in program, Alphabet Soup, and other programs for trans and gender-diverse children aged 8–11. The organization fosters community connections by supporting families and building professional networks for those who assist queer and trans individuals. The project aims to create an accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly online platform that reflects the organization’s commitment to providing a safe space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Challenge & Resolution
Centre33’s previous website lacked accessibility features, mobile optimization, and user-friendly design — all critical to effectively serving their audiences.
We designed and developed a more inclusive, accessible, and user-friendly platform that reflects the organization's commitment to providing a safe space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Bringing the project into life
Testing Initial Concept
Before finalizing the redesign implementation for the Centre33 website, we conducted a focus group test with four participants. The team tested three webpages: 'Programs, (specifically Alphabet Soup)' 'Frequently Asked Questions,' and 'Donations.' These pages were chosen because they are part of the newly added or modified site navigation, and we wanted to ensure that users could easily access and navigate these updated sections.
What went well?
The initial testing of the redesign implementation has received positive feedback. The design was praised for being clean and intuitive, with easy navigation, and the FAQ page effectively addressing the common questions provided by the organization.
Areas for Improvement
However, there were concerns being pointed out on the redesign. The layout suggestion specifically focused on the Alphabet Soup page. It was recommended to increase spacing between components for better visual balance. Additionally, more images were suggested. The team also identified that the slider was not an effective component for showcasing the Alphabet Soup program. To address these concerns, we have implemented the suggested spacing adjustments and replaced the slider with an image grid for improved presentation.
Furthermore, clear labeling was a noted concern on the Frequently Asked Questions page. To improve accessibility and user experience, we have renamed it to 'FAQs.' This abbreviation is widely recognized and helps users quickly identify the section.
The initial launch...
With the help of Google Analytics, we observed encouraging signs in the initial launch (March 28 - April 8). There was a noticeable spike of 220% in website visibility and traffic. The integration of UserWay plugin has also proven effective - the client shared positive feedback noting that both kids and some board members at the centre who require accessibility support were able to use the plugin to customize the website’s appearance based on their needs.
Reflections
Making it available for all...
Achieving accessibility is a continuous journey. We have began with changes like streamlining navigation, implementing contrast colors, clean fonts for readability, and proper semantic tags to distinguish sections on webpage. The integration of the UserWay plugin is also a big help on promoting accessibility as users will be able to customize the webpage style according to their needs. Ongoing efforts will focus on looking for more solutions to enhance website's inclusiveness.
The key to visibility...
By tailoring web content through strategic SEO implementation: including optimized web titles, meta descriptions, and keyword-focused copy, we enhanced Centre33’s online presence. These improvements increased the site’s discoverability, helping youth, caregivers, and professionals access the resources they need more easily. Our SEO strategy ensured that every page communicated its purpose clearly to both users and search engines.
There's more...
While our direct involvement has ended, the site will continue evolving. During our handoff, we provided a full maintenance guide and encouraged the Centre33 team to expand their Resources section in the future with new toolkits, guides, and materials for caregivers, educators, and youth.
More Projects
Web Design
Centre33 Website Redesign
Revamped Centre33’s website with a focus on accessibility, inclusivity, and a user-friendly experience.
Year :
2025
Industry :
Non-Profit Organization
Client :
Centre33 Kanata
Project Duration :
10 Weeks
Background
This is a client project under the "Applied Projects" course of the Interactive Media Design program. Throughout the ten (10) weeks of the academic term which commenced on January through early April of 2025, we have worked with Centre33, a youth support organization, regarding their website redesign that focuses on accessibility, inclusivity, and usability for 2SLGBTQIA+ community and youth. The project captured 1st Place during the Applied Research Day Showcase at Algonquin College.
Centre33 Kanata, established in 2022, offers a variety of programs and activities for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. These include a drop-in program, Alphabet Soup, and other programs for trans and gender-diverse children aged 8–11. The organization fosters community connections by supporting families and building professional networks for those who assist queer and trans individuals. The project aims to create an accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly online platform that reflects the organization’s commitment to providing a safe space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Challenge & Resolution
Centre33’s previous website lacked accessibility features, mobile optimization, and user-friendly design — all critical to effectively serving their audiences.
We designed and developed a more inclusive, accessible, and user-friendly platform that reflects the organization's commitment to providing a safe space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Bringing the project into life
Testing Initial Concept
Before finalizing the redesign implementation for the Centre33 website, we conducted a focus group test with four participants. The team tested three webpages: 'Programs, (specifically Alphabet Soup)' 'Frequently Asked Questions,' and 'Donations.' These pages were chosen because they are part of the newly added or modified site navigation, and we wanted to ensure that users could easily access and navigate these updated sections.
What went well?
The initial testing of the redesign implementation has received positive feedback. The design was praised for being clean and intuitive, with easy navigation, and the FAQ page effectively addressing the common questions provided by the organization.
Areas for Improvement
However, there were concerns being pointed out on the redesign. The layout suggestion specifically focused on the Alphabet Soup page. It was recommended to increase spacing between components for better visual balance. Additionally, more images were suggested. The team also identified that the slider was not an effective component for showcasing the Alphabet Soup program. To address these concerns, we have implemented the suggested spacing adjustments and replaced the slider with an image grid for improved presentation.
Furthermore, clear labeling was a noted concern on the Frequently Asked Questions page. To improve accessibility and user experience, we have renamed it to 'FAQs.' This abbreviation is widely recognized and helps users quickly identify the section.
The initial launch...
With the help of Google Analytics, we observed encouraging signs in the initial launch (March 28 - April 8). There was a noticeable spike of 220% in website visibility and traffic. The integration of UserWay plugin has also proven effective - the client shared positive feedback noting that both kids and some board members at the centre who require accessibility support were able to use the plugin to customize the website’s appearance based on their needs.
Reflections
Making it available for all...
Achieving accessibility is a continuous journey. We have began with changes like streamlining navigation, implementing contrast colors, clean fonts for readability, and proper semantic tags to distinguish sections on webpage. The integration of the UserWay plugin is also a big help on promoting accessibility as users will be able to customize the webpage style according to their needs. Ongoing efforts will focus on looking for more solutions to enhance website's inclusiveness.
The key to visibility...
By tailoring web content through strategic SEO implementation: including optimized web titles, meta descriptions, and keyword-focused copy, we enhanced Centre33’s online presence. These improvements increased the site’s discoverability, helping youth, caregivers, and professionals access the resources they need more easily. Our SEO strategy ensured that every page communicated its purpose clearly to both users and search engines.
There's more...
While our direct involvement has ended, the site will continue evolving. During our handoff, we provided a full maintenance guide and encouraged the Centre33 team to expand their Resources section in the future with new toolkits, guides, and materials for caregivers, educators, and youth.
More Projects
Web Design
Centre33 Website Redesign
Revamped Centre33’s website with a focus on accessibility, inclusivity, and a user-friendly experience.
Year :
2025
Industry :
Non-Profit Organization
Client :
Centre33 Kanata
Project Duration :
10 Weeks
Background
This is a client project under the "Applied Projects" course of the Interactive Media Design program. Throughout the ten (10) weeks of the academic term which commenced on January through early April of 2025, we have worked with Centre33, a youth support organization, regarding their website redesign that focuses on accessibility, inclusivity, and usability for 2SLGBTQIA+ community and youth. The project captured 1st Place during the Applied Research Day Showcase at Algonquin College.
Centre33 Kanata, established in 2022, offers a variety of programs and activities for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. These include a drop-in program, Alphabet Soup, and other programs for trans and gender-diverse children aged 8–11. The organization fosters community connections by supporting families and building professional networks for those who assist queer and trans individuals. The project aims to create an accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly online platform that reflects the organization’s commitment to providing a safe space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Challenge & Resolution
Centre33’s previous website lacked accessibility features, mobile optimization, and user-friendly design — all critical to effectively serving their audiences.
We designed and developed a more inclusive, accessible, and user-friendly platform that reflects the organization's commitment to providing a safe space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Bringing the project into life
Testing Initial Concept
Before finalizing the redesign implementation for the Centre33 website, we conducted a focus group test with four participants. The team tested three webpages: 'Programs, (specifically Alphabet Soup)' 'Frequently Asked Questions,' and 'Donations.' These pages were chosen because they are part of the newly added or modified site navigation, and we wanted to ensure that users could easily access and navigate these updated sections.
What went well?
The initial testing of the redesign implementation has received positive feedback. The design was praised for being clean and intuitive, with easy navigation, and the FAQ page effectively addressing the common questions provided by the organization.
Areas for Improvement
However, there were concerns being pointed out on the redesign. The layout suggestion specifically focused on the Alphabet Soup page. It was recommended to increase spacing between components for better visual balance. Additionally, more images were suggested. The team also identified that the slider was not an effective component for showcasing the Alphabet Soup program. To address these concerns, we have implemented the suggested spacing adjustments and replaced the slider with an image grid for improved presentation.
Furthermore, clear labeling was a noted concern on the Frequently Asked Questions page. To improve accessibility and user experience, we have renamed it to 'FAQs.' This abbreviation is widely recognized and helps users quickly identify the section.
The initial launch...
With the help of Google Analytics, we observed encouraging signs in the initial launch (March 28 - April 8). There was a noticeable spike of 220% in website visibility and traffic. The integration of UserWay plugin has also proven effective - the client shared positive feedback noting that both kids and some board members at the centre who require accessibility support were able to use the plugin to customize the website’s appearance based on their needs.
Reflections
Making it available for all...
Achieving accessibility is a continuous journey. We have began with changes like streamlining navigation, implementing contrast colors, clean fonts for readability, and proper semantic tags to distinguish sections on webpage. The integration of the UserWay plugin is also a big help on promoting accessibility as users will be able to customize the webpage style according to their needs. Ongoing efforts will focus on looking for more solutions to enhance website's inclusiveness.
The key to visibility...
By tailoring web content through strategic SEO implementation: including optimized web titles, meta descriptions, and keyword-focused copy, we enhanced Centre33’s online presence. These improvements increased the site’s discoverability, helping youth, caregivers, and professionals access the resources they need more easily. Our SEO strategy ensured that every page communicated its purpose clearly to both users and search engines.
There's more...
While our direct involvement has ended, the site will continue evolving. During our handoff, we provided a full maintenance guide and encouraged the Centre33 team to expand their Resources section in the future with new toolkits, guides, and materials for caregivers, educators, and youth.