What We Did
Working with the trustees of Athelstan Museum we started the project by analysing and identifying the website structure so that we could create a more simplified navigation and user journey(s) whilst not losing any of the content on a fairly large website. During this stage, we designed a new sitemap, wireframes, and colour mockups.
We were able to draw a lot of inspiration during our initial visits to Athelstan that we utilised in the design, and we were keen to ensure that the website was appealing to all audiences. Whilst a lot of the historical content would attract researchers and academics from all over the world, we felt it was equally important that the website convey a 'family-friendly' image in our approach to the design. We added some fun and quirky visuals and sounds to the website by replicating a 'tiger' coin feeder as an online donation button that roars when clicked on.
Other features of the website included custom post types for the Events that Athelstan were running, an integrated form for PayPal donations, and a visually impactful historical timeline.
The Brief
Having secured funding through the South West Museum Development fund, Athelstan Museum was looking for a brand new WordPress website to replace their old static HTML website that was outdated and difficult to maintain.
The website needed to have a clean look and feel incorporating their recently updated logo and branding as well as showcasing their varied collections, events, and extensive local history.
Client Feedback
At Athelstan Museum Malmesbury, run wholly by volunteers, we needed to update our image and create a new brand. As part of this process we received a Business Diagnostic grant from South West Museum Development to develop a new website which would reflect our changing image. We wanted a web design company who could work with volunteers, be creative and flexible and help us reach our very tight deadline within our budget.
Jo and Leeann at Callia Web, our chosen web designers, were professional and communicative. They researched our museum and history, suggested innovative ideas, worked within the colour palette of our new logo, incorporated audio elements, and reported to us at the end of each week which kept us on track to meet the deadline. They trained a team of us to manage our bright new website ourselves, giving us the future sustainability we were looking for.
We are very proud of the new website which reflects the museum’s recent developments and image. It is easy for visitors, researchers and wider audiences to navigate and check for visits and forthcoming events. We have already received a donation and a new member through the website which means it is working for us.
With our thanks to Jo and Leeann at Callia. We would certainly recommend working with them.
"I can highly recommend Jo Waltham and Callia Web. Jo’s enthusiasm and advice was second to none and I knew I was in excellent hands. I love my website and her technical knowledge and support really helped me with the design and style of the site and helped enhance the brand that it is supposed to promote. The site has received so many compliments and many of those who have seen it have already asked who designed it! Jo has also trained me in how to use the site myself so that I can amend and update where necessary and her calm approach and reassuring presence has meant that I am completely comfortable with the technical aspects. Thank you!" Rachel Wells - 