The Challenge: A Site in Stasis
The Upcycled Cloth Collective found themselves in a difficult position: their original developer was no longer able to maintain or update the website. In the fast-moving digital world, a stagnant site is a liability. They needed someone to step in, take the reins, and not only maintain the status quo but actively improve the platform.
The Learning Curve: Mastering Divi
This project marked a milestone for me. While I have extensive experience in various platforms, this was my first deep dive into the Divi Builder. I took the opportunity to master the environment quickly, ensuring the transition for the client was seamless.
By learning the nuances of the Divi engine, I was able to take over the editing process without any downtime for the Collective, proving that a solid foundation in web development allows for rapid adaptation to new tools.
1. UX & UI Enhancements
The primary goal wasn't just to keep the site online, but to make it better. I focused on:
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Refining the Aesthetic: Improving the visual hierarchy to better reflect the brand’s mission of sustainability and creativity.
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User Experience (UX) Audit: Streamlining the navigation and layout to make it easier for members to find resources and engage with the community.
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Mobile Optimisation: Ensuring the "upcycling" experience is just as beautiful on a smartphone as it is on a desktop.
2. Seamless Migration & Hosting
Beyond the front-end design, the site needed a more reliable home. I managed the complete migration from their previous hosting provider to my own dedicated hosting infrastructure.
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Improved Load Times: Moving to a high-performance environment significantly boosted site speed.
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Enhanced Security: Implementation of robust security protocols and regular backups.
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Local Support: The client now has a direct line to their host, removing the middleman and ensuring quick technical turnarounds.
The Result
The Upcycled Cloth Collective now has a revitalised digital presence that is easy to manage and pleasant to browse. By turning a "stranded" site into a modern, high-performing asset, we’ve ensured the Collective can focus on their community while I handle the technical heavy lifting.