Symphony UX redesign
Enhancing digital engagement for arts organization
Project for:
Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra
As part of the Kalamazoo Symphony UX redesign, we transformed the organization’s outdated website into a modern, mobile-friendly platform that enhances both user engagement and ease of content management.
By working closely with stakeholders, we created an intuitive, accessible design that better serves the symphony’s diverse audience.
Expertise
We leveraged our expertise in user-centered design, web development, and accessibility to create a flexible, mobile-responsive site. We conducted user research, collaborated with stakeholders, and ensured seamless content management and integration.
Client
The Kalamazoo Symphony is a renowned arts organization dedicated to enriching the community through music. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, they provide a wide range of performances and educational programs, striving to engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Timeline
This project was completed over 9 months, from contract signing to launch. The symphony UX redesign project was completed in multiple phases to ensure a thorough, well-executed result.
Challenge
Overcoming website limitations
The Kalamazoo Symphony faced challenges with their outdated Drupal website, which was difficult for staff to update and maintain. The site’s design was also in need of modernization to better reflect the Symphony’s vibrant offerings and to improve user engagement. They needed a more flexible, user-friendly platform that would allow for easier content management and a more contemporary design.
Solution
Streamlined navigation: Enhancing user flow and engagement
We recommended a complete overhaul of the website’s information architecture and an improved user flow to help patrons easily navigate and discover concerts.
This redesigned flow not only simplifies the experience but also encourages users to stay on the marketing website longer, effectively bypassing a poor checkout experience and enhancing overall engagement.
Impact
The redesign significantly improved user acquisition
Streamlined navigation
To enhance navigation and streamline access to key information, we designed a mega menu that organizes the site’s content into clear, easily accessible sections. This feature allows patrons to quickly find important categories, such as upcoming concerts, ticketing, and event details, without having to dig through multiple pages. By placing everything in one intuitive, mega menu, users can seamlessly navigate the site and find the information they need in fewer clicks.
Revised concert flow
The previous site directed patrons to Tessitura to browse concerts, but the user experience was cumbersome and inefficient. To improve this, we reworked the user flow and created a performance post type that funnels patrons to a dedicated performance page. Here, concerts are grouped by type, making it easy for patrons to find events that suit their interests. This system is also highly flexible, allowing the Kalamazoo team to easily manage and control concert listings, ensuring a smooth and user-friendly experience for both staff and visitors.
Honors
Awards
2025 Web Excellence Award
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