When it comes time to the design or redesign of an organization’s website, there are many components to take into consideration.  The website must incorporate the organization’s mission and goals with a design that is appropriate for its end users.  But, what if your end users had very specific accessibility needs?  How can your website be structured to better meet those needs?

The Center for Hearing and Deaf Services has a very specific audience with very specific needs.  Their primary end users are members of the deaf community, not only those already experience hearing loss, but individuals looking to gather more information and resources.  As the only nonprofit in western Pennsylvania that provides comprehensive service to members of the deaf and hard of hearing community at one location, HDS needed a strong website that demonstrated the uniqueness of this organization, but more importantly, a website that would serve as a resource accessible to the deaf community. 
 
The process of redesigning HDS’ website began with an assessment of their current site.  After a complete understanding of what the organization wanted out of their new site, Blue Archer proposed some strategies and tactics that would take HDS’ web presence to the next level.  Overall, the primary goal was to redesign the website and its functionality in order to make it more intuitive for HDS’ constituents.   

The new website was built on Blue Archer’s world-class content management system, AccuCMS, and features a new, professional design that better incorporates the purple and gold color scheme of HDS’ logo.  A main aspect of the redesign was incorporating video to play when the homepage opens, as well as on each of the main services pages.  To cater to the specific needs of its constituents, the video features staff signing, as well as closed captions.  The focus is on communication access and utilizing different forms of communication-  text, video with signing, and closed captions.  “Our website not only demonstrates what we do, but it reflects our philosophy,” says Amy Hart, President and CEO.

Additionally, the site utilizes graphics and text that are larger for low vision individuals.  Some original images were replaced with new images more appropriate for the deaf community.  Prominent graphical blocks appear across the top of every page featuring HDS’ six primary service areas.  This design makes it easy for constituents to locate the service they are looking for and navigate the site. 

As with any project when AccuCMS is implemented, this solution provides an efficient website platform for long-term, low-cost website ownership and maintenance.  Now, HDS can manage the website internally and make changes themselves on a daily basis.  "We have multiple people trained internally and we love that AccuCMS enables us to update our website everyday," says Amy Hart, President and CEO, Center for Hearing and Deaf Services.  Most importantly, with this new site the Center for Hearing and Deaf Services can reach its goals to attract more clients, increase awareness about the agency and its services, and better serve the deaf and hard of hearing community.
 

Visit the Center for Hearing and Deaf Services Website