Alberta Ecotrust Foundation · Website design & development
Crafting a digital platform for environmental and climate action
In April 2021, we embarked on a comprehensive website redesign project to transform Alberta Ecotrust Foundation's digital presence. Our approach centred on creating an intuitive platform that would effectively organize and communicate their mandate, projects, and programs while delivering an elevated, professional experience.
The development process began with extensive discovery sessions to understand AEF's vision and goals. Working closely with their team, we conducted a thorough competitive analysis and developed a content strategy that would resonate with their primary audience of business decision-makers and environmental stakeholders.
Built by Field has played a key role in shaping Alberta Ecotrust's digital presence, helping us better communicate our mission and impact. Their team brought a strategic, thoughtful approach to our website, ensuring it not only reflects who we are but also serves as an effective tool for engagement.
Technical Innovation
A key strategic decision was transitioning from WordPress to a more flexible and powerful technology stack. We implemented a headless CMS solution using Prismic.io, paired with a Next.js frontend, providing Ecotrust with:
- Enhanced content management capabilities
- Improved site performance and speed
- Greater flexibility for future growth
- Robust security features
Implementation Results
The technical implementation delivered significant improvements across key metrics:
- Faster page load times through optimized architecture
- Enhanced security and reliability
- Improved content management workflow
- Greater flexibility for future feature additions
The result is a platform that is visually compelling, user-friendly, and built to grow with us.
Design Integration
Working closely with their existing brand guidelines, we created a cohesive visual experience that:
- Reinforces Alberta Ecotrust's professional identity
- Highlights key programs and initiatives
- Provides clear pathways for different user groups
- Maintains accessibility standards
The resulting platform serves as a powerful tool for Alberta Ecotrust Foundation to communicate their mission, engage stakeholders, and drive environmental impact across Alberta.
Our content strategy focused on creating a clear information hierarchy that would effectively communicate Alberta Ecotrust's diverse initiatives while maintaining accessibility for their target audience. Through detailed content audits and collaborative planning, we developed an intuitive site structure that prioritizes user needs and organizational goals.
Strategic Content Organization
The content architecture was designed around key user journeys, making it easy for both potential partners and grant seekers to find relevant information. We organized content into clear thematic sections:
- Program overviews and impact metrics
- Grant application processes and guidelines
- Climate Innovation Fund initiatives
- Success stories and case studies
- Partnership opportunities
User-Centric Navigation
The navigation structure was carefully crafted to balance comprehensive coverage with intuitive access. We implemented:
- Clear primary navigation categories
- Contextual sub-navigation elements
- Strategic internal linking
The thoughtful organization has led to improved user engagement and clearer communication of Alberta Ecotrust's mission and impact. The streamlined content architecture reinforces their position as a leader in environmental and climate action while making complex information accessible to all stakeholders.
Since 2021, we've maintained a strong partnership with Alberta Ecotrust Foundation, continuously evolving their digital platform. In 2024, we undertook a major initiative to enhance their platform in response to expanding programs and changing organizational needs. This ongoing collaboration demonstrates our commitment to providing long-term value and ensuring digital solutions grow alongside our clients.
Strategic Updates
Our recent platform enhancements focused on several key areas:
- Modernized navigation and footer design to improve user experience
- Major infrastructure upgrades to maintain optimal performance
- Implementation of new 'slice' components for the Retrofit Accelerator program
- Enhanced page builder functionality for greater content flexibility
- Site-wide search functionality
Sustainable Growth
By taking an iterative approach to platform development, we've helped Alberta Ecotrust Foundation maintain a dynamic digital presence that continues to serve their mission effectively. The modular design system we implemented allows for seamless integration of new programs and initiatives while maintaining consistent brand identity and user experience.
Beyond their technical expertise, they have been a reliable and collaborative partner, supporting our team long after launch. I highly recommend Built by Field to any organization looking for a digital partner that truly understands mission-driven work.
This evolutionary approach to digital development ensures that Alberta Ecotrust Foundation's website remains a powerful tool for environmental advocacy and community engagement, adapting to new challenges and opportunities as they arise.
Details
- Year
- 2022
- Work
- Web design, Web development, Content management systems, Content strategy, Information architecture
