Project
Conceptually design a long term User Interface System, with a customizeable infrastructure for an international organization with multiple, tiered levels of secure access, integrating new open source network technology (iNames - digital identity). System needed to be flexible enough to accomodate third party vendors while simultaneously addressing the integration of legacy operational systems and maintaining an easy to use interface for a volunteer base with varied levels of internet exposure.

Begin with the master design plan for role based login. Followed by the complete re-structuring of the Online Store with a flexible UI design to accomodate Amazon and Kintera partnerships. In the middle of the Store re-design, it was suggested that we adopt the dashboard concept for a revamping of the current home page as a proposed future solution to unify the entire Internet presence.

Bottomline: These mothers are active and busy, they need an efficient, easy to use interface that allows them to do what they need to do quickly so that they can move on with their endless list of daily responsibilities and make a difference in the lives of their children and help their organization.

Challenge
Defining a new Internet UI infrastructure solution while the entire business operations framework was undergoing a massive re-configuration for streamlined efficiency and adoption of innovative digital identity technologies. Working with a virtual team to visualize the abstract functionality of a technology not yet defined.

Working with a fluid schedule and fluid requirements. Less than one week of access to key stakeholders and users for in person requirements gathering interviews. No Usability Testing. Technology driven scheduling with little to no access to engineers. Backend development occuring simultaneously with design development with flucuations in potential vendor partnerships. Basically designing within the fluid nature of an open source development environment within the context of a changing operational demographics in the international non-profit space.

Results
Before. After. A blue sky concept based on existing data & research submitted in the form of storyboards, user scenarios and navigational flow charts; content re-structuring blue print; detailed visual design roadmap integrating the complete navigational design system and addressing content customization possibilities for the future; UI Design Standards & Guidelines draft for future implementation. The first module to be deployed as part of the dashboard solution is the International Online Store integrated with Amazon (went live on March 15).

Note: CSS, Java Swing, programming and all engineering conducted by other consultants on the team. The results visible today reflect the original concepts proposed in regards to the overall framework, with the exception of text alignment which was proposed for Flush Left Rag Right across the board and some other subtle details. The site is currently in a transitional production mode with the wonderful help of dedicated volunteers implementing the new solutions in collaboration with Kintera. This is an evolving site, and a great testament to motherhood adopting new technologies to help further their efficiency in knowledge sharing and promoting their organizational mission.