Argo Limited
Enhanced Security and Streamlined Performance
Argo
Overview
Argo Group is a U.S.-focused underwriter of specialty insurance products, offering comprehensive coverage for property and casualty businesses. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, Argo has been committed to providing innovative insurance solutions since 1957, working with independent agents, wholesale brokers, and retail partners across niche markets.
Dreamers of Day collaborated with Argo and creative partner Johnnie Studio to migrate their website from a self-managed AWS setup to WP Engine. This transformation improved site performance, strengthened security, and introduced a more user-friendly content management system while preserving the site’s functionality and SEO equity.
- PRODUCT STRATEGY
- SOLUTION ARCHITECTURE
- INFRASTRUCTURE CONSULTANCY
- CUSTOM RESPONSIVE WEB DEVELOPMENT
- CONTENT AND CMS MIGRATION
- QUALITY ASSURANCE
- ACCESSIBILITY OPTIMIZATION
- PRIVACY MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY
- PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION
- DEPLOYMENT
- ONGOING SUPPORT & MAINTENANCE
Argo
Challenge
Migrating from a Self-Hosted AWS Environment
The existing self-managed AWS setup demanded significant internal resources, creating inefficiencies and vulnerabilities. The challenge was to migrate all content, functionality, and integrations seamlessly to WP Engine, a managed WordPress hosting solution, without any service disruptions.
Ensuring Zero Downtime
As a critical business touchpoint for clients, agents, and brokers, any downtime during migration risked lost business opportunities and diminished trust. A meticulous migration plan was essential to maintain operational continuity.
Improving Performance and Security
Performance bottlenecks, such as slow load times, needed resolution to enhance the user experience. Strengthening security was equally critical to protect sensitive client data and comply with industry regulations.
Enhancing User Experience and Navigation
The navigation and user experience needed refinement to serve Argo’s diverse audience better. This required a redesign that improved accessibility and made the site more intuitive without alienating existing users or compromising the site’s extensive content. This involved user research, UX design, and iterative testing to create a more engaging and efficient interface.
Supporting Growth with Scalable Infrastructure
After migration and enhancements, the site would required continuous support to maintain optimal performance and security. The challenge was to establish a proactive maintenance plan that included regular updates, security patches, performance monitoring, and quick resolution of any issues that arose.
Argo
Solution
Codebase Refactoring and Optimization
To enhance performance and security, we conducted an in-depth audit of the existing codebase. By refactoring outdated code, removing redundancies, and implementing best practices for secure coding, we improved site speed, reliability, and maintainability. Updates included plugin optimization and streamlined database queries to deliver a robust foundation.
Seamless Integration of New Features
Advanced features, including interactive stock price tools and enhanced search capabilities, were carefully developed to enrich user engagement and workflows. Thorough testing in a staging environment ensured that these functionalities complemented the existing architecture without causing disruptions.
Stakeholder Collaboration for Success
We worked closely with Argo’s IT, Compliance, and Communication teams to align the project with their specific requirements. The IT group ensured infrastructure readiness and smooth hosting transitions, while Compliance focused on meeting stock market regulatory needs. The Communication team collaborated on delivering a polished user experience aligned with Argo’s branding and marketing goals.
Enhanced User Experience and Site Navigation
To improve usability, we redesigned the site’s layout and navigation structure. A more intuitive menu system, clear calls-to-action, and visual enhancements aligned with Argo’s brand identity, delivering a streamlined experience for users across all devices.
Managed Website Services for Long-Term Success
Our team established a proactive maintenance plan, including regular updates, security monitoring, and performance optimization. By providing ongoing support and CMS training, we empowered Argo’s internal teams to manage their content effectively while ensuring the site remains scalable and secure.
Argo
Outcome
The migration to a managed WordPress environment has transformed Argo Group’s digital presence. With enhanced performance, a scalable architecture, and advanced features, the new site serves as a secure and user-friendly platform for its specialty insurance audience.
Key achievements include:
- Seamless Migration: Successfully transitioned from a self-hosted AWS setup to WP Engine with zero downtime, ensuring uninterrupted service for users.
- Improved Performance: Refactored code and streamlined infrastructure led to faster load times and a more responsive user experience across devices.
- Enhanced Security: Implemented advanced protocols to protect sensitive client data and ensure compliance with stock market regulatory requirements.
- Scalable Features: Developed a modular design system to support future growth and the integration of new tools, ensuring the site evolves alongside Argo’s needs.
- Optimized User Experience: Redesigned navigation and layout to improve accessibility and usability, aligning with Argo’s branding and audience goals.
The result is a dynamic, future-ready website that positions Argo Group for sustained growth while enhancing engagement with clients, agents, and brokers.