Powering nonprofit grant support.
The challengeA grant process hindered by a site that had lost coherence.
The James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, committed to enriching Oregon's arts and education sectors, funds nonprofits statewide. They envision communities where arts flourish and educational opportunities are equally accessible to all children.
The Foundation's grant process was hindered by a website that had lost coherence over time. The structure made it difficult for users to understand eligibility criteria and navigate the application process seamlessly, resulting in an excessive need for assistance from foundation staff.
The approachUser-centric from the ground up.
Our process began with developing personas and mapping user journeys, focusing on the diverse needs of grant seekers. This groundwork led to a reimagined website experience, where simplicity in language and a logical flow are paramount.
We transitioned from complex terminologies to user-friendly content, ensuring the grant application process was intuitive and engaging. The project also included the development of a brand-new resource — a searchable database of the Foundation's grant history.
The workA vibrant and navigable funding hub.
The transformation has led to improved user comprehension and autonomy in navigating the grant application journey. The redesigned website also mirrors the vibrancy of the Miller Foundation mission.
It's not only an aesthetic upgrade but a functional evolution — a digital hub built around how grant seekers actually look for information, with the grants database giving the Foundation a public record of its impact at the speed of a search.
The outcomeHigher comprehension, more independent applicants.
Post-redesign, the Miller Foundation website has seen an increase in user comprehension and independent navigation. The new site effectively demystifies the grant application process, empowering applicants with the knowledge and resources they need.
Foundation staff spend less time fielding eligibility questions and more time on the work that only they can do.
“I love your website! I learned a lot about your programs, and it has such a joyous feeling about it — and it's easy and clean to navigate.”~ Foundation attorney· James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation
