PRESS RELEASE

How Human-Centered Design Transformed Websites for ACOFP and CMAP, Enhancing Access, Usability, and Engagement

Baltimore, MD (November 21, 2024)—Astriata, a leading creative agency focused on enhancing user experience, is proud to announce that the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) has received both a w3 Silver Award and a Davey Silver Award for their website redesign, while the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) earned a w3 Silver Award. Through these transformative projects, Astriata has enhanced the user experience and accessibility for two unique audiences, showcasing how tailored digital solutions can make a meaningful impact.

ACOFP’s Enhanced Website: A Member-Centric Approach

ACOFP, representing over 26,000 students, educators, physicians, and support staff, aimed to improve the digital experience for its diverse member community. Astriata’s user research, including usability testing, confirmed previous perceptions that the website was overwhelming and challenging to navigate while uncovering nuanced barriers contributing to these challenges. Leveraging these insights, Astriata restructured the site to reflect ACOFP’s core values of Education, Leadership, and Advocacy, ensuring easier access to information and exclusive content.

New Website Key Features for ACOFP:

• Role-based Navigation: Provides customized access points for different user groups.
• Dual-Scroll Functionality: Enhances content access and site navigation.
• Visual Cues and Enhanced Search: Helps users find information efficiently with search preview features.
• Cross-Device Compatibility: Ensures seamless access across mobile and desktop devices.

The new design enables ACOFP members to connect, engage, and stay informed, ultimately supporting ACOFP’s mission to serve the osteopathic community. The recognition by both the w3 and Davey Awards underscores the success of this member-centric approach.

CMAP’s Digital Transformation: From Static Content to Interactive Data

CMAP, the regional planning organization for northeastern Illinois, required a website capable of presenting dynamic, data-rich content. The previous site’s structure, partially modeled after a strategic plan in PDF format, restricted usability and hindered real-time data accessibility, particularly for counties, municipalities, and communities. Astriata’s redesign addressed these challenges by a new user-centric navigation and enhancing and improving ArcGIS-powered interactive data visualizations while reimagining the site’s architecture for better usability. By migrating CMAP’s content to a WordPress CMS, Astriata delivered a scalable, flexible solution that meets accessibility standards, including WCAG 2.0 Level AA compliance.

New Website Key Features for CMAP:

• Dynamic Data Visualizations: Integrates ArcGIS for real-time, interactive community data snapshots.
• User-Friendly CMS: Simplifies content management, allowing CMAP staff to update information as needs evolve.
• Intuitive Navigation and Content Architecture: Features a clear, accessible layout for effortless information discovery.
• Responsive and Accessible Design: Mobile-first, WCAG-compliant interface ensuring usability for diverse audiences.

The redesigned CMAP website now empowers stakeholders, leaders, and the public to access critical regional planning information, fostering engagement and transparency. Its recognition with a w3 Silver Award highlights Astriata’s ability to drive digital transformation for community impact.