Case Studies
Case study: PBS PressRoom
PBS PressRoom is an online resource for journalists, photo editors and PBS member stations. It is designed to be a one-stop-shop for press who are covering PBS programs and contains press releases, program descriptions, schedule information, photos, publicist contact information and other materials.
From a selected program the visitor is presented with additional information on the program's landing page including press releases and photos for that program, 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 to engage the visitor visually. Enlarged photos from the episodes provide a pleasant visual along with the exchange of pertinent information.
Building great and attention-grabbing designs are based upon a clear understanding of design and information usability principles. At the same time, websites must be aesthetically appealing and follow good visual design principles. Both of these traits are present in the PBS PressRoom website and are a hallmark of all Siteworx-designed websites.
Design
The Siteworx redesign of PBS PressRoom created an appealing media website that had its own distinct personality while still fitting into the PBS brand. The website colors and the placement of high-value graphics (quality promotional photos and graphics that are archetypally PBS) draw in the viewer, helping them decide on their area of interest. The pages are all designed to make it easier to find information by directing users to pools of content through engaging use of promotional pieces like the Flash strip at the bottom of the home page.Technology
PBS Pressroom was looking for improved overall speed and a simpler, faster search function. 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.Process
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 press releases and photos for that program, 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 to engage the visitor visually. Enlarged photos from the episodes provide a pleasant visual along with the exchange of pertinent information.
Building great and attention-grabbing designs are based upon a clear understanding of design and information usability principles. At the same time, websites must be aesthetically appealing and follow good visual design principles. Both of these traits are present in the PBS PressRoom website and are a hallmark of all Siteworx-designed websites.
