Municipal portal Arnhem
Easily manage your municipal affairs online
The municipality of Arnhem's website was in dire need of an overhaul. An outdated platform, frustrated users struggling with poor functionality and a search functionality that barely worked. This was the state of the website in the fall of 2024, when we embarked on the redesign project. The brief from the municipality’s communications team was clear, "design an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly website for all residents of Arnhem".
CLIENT: Municipality of Arnhem
AGENCY: Gloedcommunicatie
PERIOD: Aug. 2024 - Nov. 2024
ROLE: UX/UI Designer (freelance)
TOOLS:
Figma
The trajectory
My Role During the Pitch Phase
The redesign project was structured into multiple phases, with participants chosen through pitch processes for each stage. Having previously collaborated with Gloedcommunicatie on several projects, I was invited by this Nijmegen-based agency to support them during the pitch phase—and later, the design phase. My role involved creating the concept design and serving as an advisor and sparring partner in developing the project plan.
The Research Phase
The design phase, where I played a significant role, was preceded by a comprehensive research phase. Research agency Online Department conducted a detailed study to understand how users experienced the existing website and why many chose not to engage with the online portal.
The Design Process
Once the research was complete, the design process began. Following a kick-off session and multiple brainstorming sessions (in which I participated), Gloedcommunicatie’s brand designer developed the look-and-feel and the visual concept. I was responsible for further refinement of the UI and UX design, adapting the design for various viewports, and developing and finalizing the Design System, which was an essential part of the project. A critical requirement was ensuring that the website met WCAG 2.2 criteria, with the design subsequently validated by a certified agency.
THE RESULT
The Homepage
A significant portion of participants in the various user studies expressed a desire for a municipal website with a “prouder and more positive appearance.” They wanted the website to reflect the identity and spirit of the city and its residents. This insight was translated into the website’s look-and-feel. The homepage was intentionally designed to combine access points to key services with informative content, striking a balance between functionality and a warm, welcoming aesthetic.
The Topic Overview Page
One of the website's key navigational tools is the Topic Overview Page. This central hub provides users with an organized view of various themes, categorized into intuitive groups. This structured approach ensures users can quickly and easily find their way to the services or information they need.
The Product Detail Page
From the Topic Overview Page, users can navigate to specific theme or product pages. These detail pages offer comprehensive and relevant information on the selected topic, ensuring a user experience that is both informative and efficient.
The News Overview Page
Another standout feature is the News Overview Page, designed to increase residents’ engagement with the municipality. This section provides updates on current events, announcements and initiatives, encouraging active participation in the community.
The Design System
A crucial part of this project was the development of a Design System, serving as a central repository for consistent visual and functional elements. This system streamlines the design process, ensures uniformity across the platform, and enhances the user experience with consistent interaction patterns and styles. Additionally, it simplifies maintenance and makes future expansions more efficient. The example below illustrates some of the Design System elements used in the Product Detail Page.
Peroration
This renewed platform for the municipality of Arnhem provides residents with a modern and accessible online experience. With a thoughtful concept and design, the website not only fulfills users’ functional needs but also fosters a sense of pride and connection to the city. The carefully developed Design System ensures consistency, ease of maintenance, and a robust foundation for future growth, making the website both practical and inspiring for all residents.
Interested in my services?
Interested in my services, my portfolio or curious in what ways we could work together? Call me on +31 (0)6 - 51 73 97 67 or send me a message using the form below, I will contact you as soon as possible.
