Date
Dec 2020
Client
Ontario Parks
Role
Website Design
The primary goal of this redesign was to create a user-centric website that simplifies the process of discovering and planning visits to Ontario Parks. The project aimed to enhance the overall UX, streamline navigation, and modernize the UI to align with contemporary design standards.
In-depth user interviews, surveys, and usability testing were conducted to gain qualitative and quantitative insights. Users expressed frustration with the outdated design, difficulty finding information, and a lack of mobile responsiveness.
A meticulous examination of competitor websites in the outdoor recreation domain was performed. This analysis identified both best practices and shortcomings, informing decisions about features, content presentation, and visual aesthetics.
User needs and expectations were at the forefront of every design decision. Clear information architecture and intuitive navigation became the guiding principles, ensuring that users could seamlessly explore the wealth of information available.
A commitment to accessibility was a top priority. The color palette, font choices, and interactive elements were carefully selected to comply with accessibility standards, ensuring an inclusive experience for users of all abilities.
Detailed wireframes were created to establish the layout and flow of the website, focusing on intuitive navigation and content hierarchy. Prototypes were developed to test the functionality, gather user feedback, and refine the design before moving into the final phase.
A refreshed visual identity was meticulously crafted, incorporating a nature-inspired color palette, high-quality imagery, and modern typography. The design aimed to evoke a sense of adventure while maintaining a professional and trustworthy appearance.
Recognizing the prevalence of mobile devices, the UI was designed to be responsive. Mobile-first principles were applied to prioritize essential information for on-the-go users, ensuring a seamless experience across various screen sizes.
Close collaboration with developers was paramount to ensuring the seamless translation of design into a functional website. Iterative testing and feedback loops were conducted to refine the user interface and address any unforeseen issues that arose during the development phase.
The Ontario Parks website redesign exemplifies the successful amalgamation of user-centered design principles with a modern aesthetic. The project underscores the importance of ongoing user feedback, iterative design processes, and collaborative efforts between UX/UI designers and developers in creating a website that not only looks appealing but also serves its users effectively.
