Challenges
Simplify Information Organization
Managing and structuring a wide range of documents and data from multiple departments is essential for clarity and usability. By organizing this extensive content in a user-friendly and logical way, we ensure that users can easily find the information they need.
Conflicting Design Preferences
Balancing the preferences of stakeholders, particularly the company leader's insistence on a dark website theme, poses a challenge. While a dark theme might align with the company's brand identity, it may not be optimal for users with low vision or those who prefer high-contrast interfaces.
Create an Accessible Website for Energoatom
The primary task was to develop a website for Energoatom that complies with Ukrainian state accessibility standards. This involved ensuring that the site is fully accessible to all users, including those with visual impairments and other disabilities.
User research
Personas formation
The target audience for the Energoatom website includes journalists and company employees who frequently need up-to-date information and news about the corporation's activities. These users value quick and convenient access to data on recent events and procurement activities.
Users Struggle to Find What They Need
The previous website had a complex navigation structure with multiple levels of nested menus, making it challenging for users to intuitively find information. Users experienced difficulties due to the unclear organization and hierarchy of content.
Confusing UX
The previous site lacked a clear principle for organizing information, which resulted in a confusing user experience. Users struggled with understanding how information was categorized and accessed, leading to frustration and inefficiency
Solutions
Simplified Information Architecture
The information architecture was completely redesigned to enhance user experience. I reduced the levels of nesting, making it easier to find information.
Each section was clearly defined, allowing users to intuitively navigate the site.
Additionally, a search function was implemented to further streamline access to content, ensuring users could quickly locate the information they needed.
Inclusivity in Design
Despite the management's preference for a dark theme, I designed the news pages with light backgrounds for improved readability.
I used the e-Ukraine font, approved for government websites, to ensure accessibility for users with visual impairments. Additionally, I implemented an option to switch to a high-contrast light theme, further enhancing usability for all users.
Visuals for Approachability
To improve the overall aesthetic and modernity of the website, I incorporated visually appealing images throughout the design.
This approach not only made the site more attractive but also effectively engaged users. My goal was to create a positive image for the website, portraying it as modern and friendly.
By using photographs of people, I aimed to foster a sense of connection and make the site feel less formal.
Conclusion
The Energoatom website redesign was focused on balancing user accessibility, government standards, and aesthetic appeal. Despite the challenge of adhering to a mandated dark theme, I introduced light backgrounds for critical content to improve readability and designed a switchable light mode for inclusivity.
I simplified the site’s navigation by restructuring the information architecture, making it intuitive for users to find what they need.
In addition, I ensured the news section was easy to navigate, with categorized articles, breadcrumbs, and related news links, enhancing user experience for journalists and the general public alike.