The Ask

In this project, I collaborated with Carbon6 on a comprehensive redesign of their website, focusing on the sitemap and wireframes. The goal was to guide the third-party agency responsible for the visual aspects, such as color palettes and graphic designs, ensuring that the new brand identity was seamlessly integrated into the refreshed website. My involvement was pivotal in defining the information architecture and wireframes, setting the foundation for a user-focused, yet versatile, online presence.

Sitemap

I meticulously crafted the sitemap and structured the information architecture to ensure logical navigation and clear pathways for users. This foundational work was essential in guiding the subsequent design and development phases, providing a blueprint for the website’s overall structure.

Project Overview

Brand Evolution and Asset Changes

Unlike my previous work with Carbon6, which centered on tool and software interface design, this project required adapting to a refreshed brand identity. The assets and components I was accustomed to had evolved, necessitating a fresh approach to design that aligned with the new brand direction.

Complex Communication Dynamics

The implementation phase involved a developer working remotely across time zones, which posed significant communication challenges. Coordinating effectively to resolve issues and align on project milestones required strategic time management and clear communication.

Diverse Tool Representation

Carbon6's suite included over 10 distinct tools, each necessitating a unique landing page and website layout. This requirement meant that a templated approach was not feasible; each tool’s wireframe needed to reflect its individual identity and branding while maintaining a cohesive overall site experience.

My Approach

Wireframes Development

My role involved creating wireframes that were intentionally broad and agnostic, allowing flexibility for the external design team to infuse brand-specific elements later on. These wireframes were instrumental in validating page structures with stakeholders, ensuring that all necessary content was accounted for and strategically placed according to best marketing practices.

Stakeholder Collaboration

Throughout the project, I worked closely with the head of marketing and other key stakeholders to validate designs. Although I was not directly responsible for the copy, I played a crucial role in integrating the provided text into the wireframes, ensuring that the content fit well and supported the overall layout and design intent.

The Result

I believe the success of this project was driven not only by the swift turnaround time of 3-4 weeks but also by the extensive collaboration that occurred throughout the entire process. We engaged numerous stakeholders and internal teams from each of the Carbon6 suite tools, all of whom were actively involved in approving content and designs. This experience taught me valuable lessons in maintaining effective communication and managing challenges and requests as they arose, ensuring a smooth and productive workflow.