Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church partnered with Mission Lab to redesign their website, aiming for a modern, accessible platform that enhanced both usability and church operations. Our work included a seamless transition to new hosting, comprehensive data migration, and a user-friendly design tailored to church staff needs for effective, ongoing site management.
Challenge
Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church faced challenges with an outdated website that limited access to content and required extensive support to maintain. They needed a platform that could grow with them while also being easy to manage and maintain.
- Outdated and Inaccessible Content: The previous site’s design made it difficult for visitors to find sermons, events, and critical resources.
- Complex Maintenance Needs: Limited tools and an old hosting provider (HostGator) required frequent, time-intensive support from church staff.
- Data Migration and Continuity: Ensuring access to old data, particularly critical forms and event entries, was vital to ongoing church operations.
Solution
To address these issues, Mission Lab devised a comprehensive strategy focused on an accessible, streamlined user experience, reliable data access, and simplified ongoing maintenance.
1. Platform and Design Overhaul
- We rebuilt the site from the ground up using user-focused design principles, creating a clean, modern interface that emphasizes ease of navigation.
- Enhanced Content Access: Integrated search features and categorized content, particularly for sermons and events, so users could find information quickly and intuitively.
2. Hosting and Plugin Integration
- Transitioned the site from HostGator to a reliable hosting provider with better support and plugin management.
- Essential Plugins: Implemented core plugins such as Gravity Forms for event management and Postmark for streamlined email communication, enhancing both internal and external communication.
3. Data Migration Strategy
- Created a meticulous data migration plan to ensure continuity, transferring essential data from the previous site, including wedding applications and event forms, to preserve accessibility without disruptions.
4. Staff Training and Maintenance Plan
- Training and Documentation: Led hands-on training sessions and provided comprehensive documentation to equip staff with skills and resources for day-to-day management.
- Support Structure: Set up a tiered maintenance plan with flexible support options, including a dedicated Slack channel for quick troubleshooting and consultations.
Results
The updated website exceeded expectations, delivering a smooth experience for both church staff and site visitors.
- Positive Launch and Enhanced User Experience: The redesigned website launched successfully, receiving favorable feedback from both staff and churchgoers, who noted the improved look, functionality, and organization.
- Efficient Communication and Support: The Slack channel fostered responsive support, while the maintenance plan allowed the staff to confidently handle routine updates and troubleshooting.
- Seamless Data Access: With critical forms and data migrated effectively, staff reported uninterrupted access to essential information, such as wedding applications, ensuring continuity in services.
- Increased Staff Autonomy: The training and resources provided empowered staff to manage content independently, reducing their reliance on outside support.
Summary / Key Takeaways
By focusing on a seamless user experience, streamlined operations, and empowering staff, Mission Lab delivered a solution that not only meets Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church’s current needs but also supports their long-term growth. Our strategic approach to design, data management, and staff enablement underscores the importance of practical, accessible web solutions for non-profits looking to make a lasting impact online.
