Last week we launched a redesigned Industrial & Systems Engineering (opens new window) website. We started the redesign 8 months ago because they were growing and started to add new programs. At the time we didn't know that growth would result in a name change, a complete restructure of the department and a new client contact.

Twice baked

Essentially we did a redesign twice for this site. The first was based on an initial architecture and goals and was almost complete except for content when our contact from the program left. We didn't know what would happen since he was not replaced right away. A month or two later we got a new contact and completely new goals for the site. We went back to the drawing board, we came up with a new navigation, interaction and elements for the homepage and started working with the design team to match an upcoming branding campaign.

Features and changes

In the end the site turned out great. The homepage offers quick access to degree programs, spotlights on great work happening and an area to focus on selling points that distinguish Wayne State from other schools with similar programs. The previous homepage focused on the director of the program and a lot of talk about themselves. The new homepage focuses on what they are offering students and all the great things they can be involved in.

The content was also completely re-written. Faculty profiles were scrutinized and assigned to multiple areas for cross reference. We were also given a new set of photography of faculty and facilities. These updated photos really help to show off the advancements the program has made.

A little bit of social

They are investing some time each day and have started a few social media outreach and communication strategies. We wanted to highlight those activities on their homepage. They aren't the most prominent thing on the page but they offer the visitor a jumping off point if they reach the bottom of the page and haven't found what they were looking for.

View the Industrial & Systems Engineering website at: http://ise.wayne.edu/ (opens new window)