Space Coast Interactive -- Case Study

1. Existing Website Analysis

While the original HBCA Website had dynamic data-driven content, the contents were not in a true database. Most importantly, the content could not be accessed by the client's staff, so they had to rely on a third party to make updates. This was a frustrating process that kept them from updating their Website in a timely manner.

SCI recommended re-building the site on an Open-Source Content Management System (CMS), and now the HBCA staff has immediate access to edit their content through any Web browser. They can update the text using a WYSIWYG editor without needing any special tools or having to learn code, and their Website data is now held in a secure database environment. All made available at no cost thanks to Open Source!

Next, we suggested they improve their site design with a new theme...

2. Theme Selection and Configuration

Content Management Systems (CMSs) keep costs down. First, they are built on tested and proven code from thousands of developers worldwide. Second, they are tested regularly and updated for security. Third, they can be easily customized.

After selecting an appropriate CMS, SCI recommended that HBCA take advantage of a time/money saving option: start with a pre-produced Web Theme. There are literally thousands of CMS themes available as a great starting point for building a unique Web identity. We chose an inexpensive theme from a top design firm. From there, SCI configured the theme to fit HBCA's brand. Features include a jQuery slideshow on the home page, banner advertisement blocks, an events calendar, and all the content the organization needs to communicate.

3. Dynamic Content Editing

The CMS system enables HBCA staff to log in using a Web browser with an Internet connection to edit the Website's content. Each block of content is editable using a Web-based WYSIWYG editor with styling controls similar to a text editor.

In addition, HBCA staff can add new pages, change menu items, upload images, create links, and change dynamic elements using Web forms. SCI configured the system to automatically re-size, crop and change the resolution of uploaded images to the site.

With the CMS system, the client can also add and remove events from the calendar, create image galleries, manage blogs and more.

4. Full Membership Controls

HBCA is now able to control it's membership database through the CMS's User Management system. Membership data can be added, edited or deleted using administrative Web-based forms. Members are categorized by groups and granted access to site content based on roles and user profiles.

Membership data is automatically ported to the Membership Directory with search criteria based on their categories.

The system enables HBCA to keep their membership organized, grants access to content based on categorization, and delivers reporting and communication functions all with user-friendly Web-based tools.