King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) partnered with Spinbox to develop modern, user-friendly websites for a digital transformation of their University website. The collaboration laid the groundwork for the successful design and development of multiple websites and enhancing the user experience (UX).
A Unified Digital Vision Brief
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) engaged Spinbox to develop new websites for their International Programs Office (IPO) and Admissions and Student Recruitment (ASR) department. The IPO website aimed to create a modern, user-friendly platform using the advanced Sitefinity Content Management System (CMS) to manage and deliver information efficiently.
The ASR project involved merging the existing Admissions and Visiting Students Research Programmes (VSRP) websites into a single, cohesive platform and templated approach. This new website was intended to serve as a comprehensive resource for prospective students, providing them with all the necessary information to apply to KAUST while showcasing the university's facilities and lifestyle.
Crafting Cutting-Edge CMS Solutions Solution
Spinbox, leveraging its 15+ years of expertise with Sitefinity CMS, proposed and executed a comprehensive solution to meet KAUST's needs for both the IPO and ASR websites. The solution included:
- UX & User Journeys: Under discovery sessions with KAUST, Spinbox reworked the IA and User Journeys to ensure the new UX and UI would allow for a templated approach to work for entire KAUST digital vision, creating a design system that met all of the users and contents needs.
- Advanced CMS Features: Implemented automated workflows, content personalisation, and multi-site management capabilities to ensure efficient content delivery and user engagement.
- Seamless Integration: Ensured compatibility with CRM systems, supported responsive design, and integrated mobile apps for a seamless user experience across all devices.
- Customisation and Flexibility: Offered real-time design changes, drag-and-drop functionality, and multilingual support to cater to diverse user requirements.
- Marketing and Analytics Tools: Integrated tracking tools, SEO management, and social media content sharing to enhance site performance and visibility.
- Content Integration: Migrated and enhanced relevant content from the old websites, developed new sections such as student and alumni stories, and provided comprehensive information on research facilities and student services.
Elevated User Experience & Operational Efficiency Results
Spinbox's collaboration with KAUST resulted in significant achievement, including:
- Foundation for Future Projects: The IPO project established a solid groundwork for developing the ASR website, showcasing Spinbox’s technical prowess and adaptability.
- Improved User Experience: The ASR website now serves as a single source of truth for prospective students, with enhanced navigation and search capabilities reducing bounce rates and increasing engagement.
- Increased Applications and Enquiries: Clear calls to action are prominently featured throughout the site, guiding prospective students towards the application process. The site’s design and content effectively showcase KAUST’s key selling points, resulting in higher user retention and more applications.
- Operational Efficiency: The new CMS and content management capabilities have reduced the administrative burden on the ASR team, allowing them to focus on strategic initiatives. The ability to target content based on user location has personalised the user experience, making information more relevant and engaging.
Spinbox's expertise in creating user-centric, technically robust websites has driven engagement and achieved KAUST’s business objectives, setting a new standard for university recruitment platforms.