Glaucoma Research Foundation
Revisiting the Resource
On the surface, the Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) funds innovative research for the treatment and cure of glaucoma and acts as a comprehensive resource to anyone affected. What set GRF apart are both the depth of its research work and its extensive community reach. The research GRF supports is unique in its flexible approach to goals—it’s a responsive process with very real aims, not just a scientific exercise. And for many, GRF is the first stop (and a leading search result) after diagnosis.
We had already established a solid working relationship with GRF. In 2005, we designed a site that better highlighted GRF’s vast stores of knowledge—in fact, GRF received a substantial bequest shortly after launch. For this redesign, we focused on carving out interaction paths for multiple audiences and modernizing site elements.
It’s in the Delivery
One of the goals of our previous design was to help raise GRF’s profile, garnering more attention for the nonprofit and its mission. With this newfound publicity, GRF was keen to provide an updated space for visitors to gather information, get support, and donate toward research efforts. The GRF team had also noted an expanding audience, from scientists and people living with glaucoma to greater numbers of concerned family and friends.
The essential design challenge was to connect and convey the right message to the appropriate audience. Furthermore, we needed to account for ways to incorporate multiple media types and social media tools, while continuing to tailor the site for those with visual impairments.
Let’s Face It
Working with the GRF team, we got ourselves reacquainted and familiar with GRF’s project needs. Through interviews, work sessions, and audits, our research identified audience needs and suggested messaging and tone guidelines that would encourage readers to donate, assuage the fears of family members, or keep Glaucoma researchers well-versed in any glaucoma treatment developments.
In line with focusing on the site’s audiences, we created a framework that allowed GRF to showcase the personal stories of researchers and people affected by glaucoma. We also merged information from the newsletter Gleams to bulwark GRF’s role as a crucial education source. Throughout the project phases, we were especially mindful of accessibility.
The final design is approachable and attentive, with directive pathways for each of the various audiences. Better yet, the site places the person ahead of the disease, building on the complex and compassionate work GRF supports.