BRIC

BRIC’s website was built on a version of Drupal that was nearing end of life, posing significant security risks and operational challenges. The outdated platform required extensive development effort for minor updates, lacked modern features, and constrained scalability. Transitioning to a robust, user-friendly CMS was essential to future-proof BRIC’s digital presence.

The site hosted over 2,000 pages of diverse content, including event listings, educational materials, and streaming media. Migrating this content seamlessly, while preserving metadata and maintaining SEO rankings, was critical to avoiding disruptions and maintaining visibility.

The existing site’s navigation system was cumbersome and poorly structured, leaving users frustrated when searching for events, media, or resources. Redesigning the navigation with an audience-first approach was essential to improve engagement and usability.

Serving a diverse audience was a priority for BRIC, making compliance with WCAG 2.1 AA standards non-negotiable. Ensuring accessibility across 2,000+ pages posed a significant challenge, requiring comprehensive design, development, and testing efforts.

BRIC relied on third-party tools for event management, media streaming, and e-commerce, all of which needed to be seamlessly integrated into the new platform without disrupting current operations.

As a leading cultural institution, BRIC frequently shares high-resolution media and video content. The new platform needed to handle these files efficiently without compromising performance or user experience.

We began with an in-depth discovery process, including stakeholder interviews and workshops, to align with BRIC’s goals and audience needs. A comprehensive content inventory helped categorize all content into three tiers, forming the foundation for effective organization. A detailed project plan and timeline ensured clarity and collaboration throughout the project.

Through iterative exercises, we crafted a user-friendly information architecture that streamlined navigation and provided easy access to BRIC’s extensive archive. This structure prioritized audience-specific flows, ensuring that visitors could explore BRIC’s programming, events, and artist work efficiently.

We meticulously migrated over 2,000 pages from Drupal to WordPress with zero downtime, integrating third-party systems for event management, e-commerce, and communications. A custom archival system was developed to preserve and showcase BRIC’s rich history, ensuring users could easily explore past content, artist projects, and alumni work.

The site was built using modular WordPress components, empowering BRIC’s team to easily create, update, and expand pages through drag-and-drop functionality. This flexible solution ensures the platform can grow alongside BRIC’s evolving needs with minimal reliance on external development.

Seamless integrations for event ticketing, donations, and email communications centralized operations, making it easier for BRIC to manage outreach and engage its diverse audience. The platform’s adaptability supports BRIC’s varied initiatives under one cohesive system.

The website meets WCAG 2.1 AA standards, ensuring it is accessible to all users while adhering to BRIC’s DEIA principles.Intuitive navigation, high-contrast designs, and accessible features were implemented to create an inclusive user experience for all visitors, reflecting BRIC’s commitment to diversity and equity.

Dreamers of Day successfully transformed BRIC’s digital platform, creating a vibrant, user-focused hub that supports their mission as a leading cultural institution. The new website features enhanced navigation, seamless accessibility, and a modular structure that empowers BRIC to independently manage its growing online presence.

The project was completed in just five months, delivering a platform that amplifies engagement while adhering to the highest standards of inclusivity. Recognized for its technical and creative excellence, the website earned multiple prestigious awards and nominations.

Key achievements include:

• 2024 Web Excellence Award Winner: Culture Category
• 2024 Webby Award Nominee: Cultural institutions (Web & Mobile Sites)
• 2024 Webby Award Nominee: Best Mobile Visual Design – Function (Mobile Features) Websites and Mobile Sites
• 2,000+ Pages Migrated: Seamlessly transitioned from Drupal to WordPress without disruption.
• WCAG 2.1 Compliance: Ensured accessibility for all users, aligning with BRIC’s DEIA principles.
• Modular Flexibility: Empowered BRIC’s team to independently manage and grow their digital presence.
• 5-Month Delivery: Delivered a comprehensive solution within an ambitious timeline.