PBS

PBS PressRoom is an online resource for journalists, photo editors and PBS member stations. Designed to be a one-stop-shop for press who are covering PBS programs, the site contains press releases, program descriptions, schedule information, photos, publicist contact information and more.

The newly redesigned PBS PressRoom is an appealing media website that has its own distinct brand presence while still maintaining consistency with the PBS global brand. The website color palette and selection of high-quality graphics—quality promotional photos and graphics that are archetypally PBS— engage visitors, guiding them to important areas of interest. Because journalists and photo editors are typically time-constrained, the site is designed with a keen eye toward ease-of-use. PBS’s content authors identified speedy navigation and browsing capabilities as a key priority.

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Speed of Navigation, Efficiency of Design

PBS PressRoom looked to simplify its search interfaces and improve search performance. The website architecture called for a Programs A-Z list with all materials grouped under program title, a Photos tab highlighting newest photos, and a Schedules & Listings page with day and month calendars and direct links to specific information (built without frames). The goal was to reorganize information to help users find press releases, viewing schedules and photos quickly and efficiently. Main search and browse tools are featured prominently to help direct user tasks. The website architecture was simplified to combine programs with their related episodes, press releases and photos.

High Visual Appeal with Simplified Navigation

Siteworx consulted with PBS on the information architecture and user interface diagrams for the website and as a result it has both a high visual appeal and a natural navigation that supports quick information searches. From a selected program, the visitor is presented with additional information on the program's landing page including related press releases and photos, both for visual interest and as supporting information. The episode pages feature the program brand that visitors expect along with episode information, press releases and photos. Enlarged photos from the episodes provide a pleasant visual along with the exchange of pertinent information.

Building great and attention-grabbing designs requires a clear understanding of design and information usability principles. At the same time, websites must be aesthetically appealing and follow solid visual design principles. Both of these traits are present in the PBS PressRoom website.

  • Fluid Interface Supports Quick Search and Diverse Media Types

    Website visitors can easily search by program name, date, or media type. The compact, user-friendly design makes it easy to navigate across content types and identify the most relevant media and content. A Programs A-Z list provides all materials grouped under program title, a Photos tab highlights the most recent photos, and a Schedules & Listings page provides day and month calendars with direct links to specific information.

  • Fulfilling Member Stations’ Demand for Speedy Access to Update Content and Media

    PBS Pressroom serves as a valuable portal for its member stations, providing centralized access to up-to-date content and media, such as press releases, program guides, videos and photos, and more. The award-winning site utilizes a modern color palette and styles to provide an appealing design that is also easy to navigate and to use.