Client Challenge:
CXPanda needed an extensive redesign of its existing website to improve its performance and user experience. The site was originally built with limited technical resources, resulting in a complicated structure that relied heavily on multiple heavy plugins, significantly slowing down the site and complicating its administration. The project appeared to have unclear documentation and suboptimal UI design. The initial diagnostics indicated that the existing setup was not developed professionally, leading to inefficient performance and high operational costs.
Strategic Approach:
Our intervention began with a thorough analysis of the existing website infrastructure. The performance optimization was tackled first, which led to initial improvements in site responsiveness.
However, it became evident that merely tweaking the existing system wouldn’t be enough due to the limitations of the back-end structure and the costly support from an external team, which was proving ineffective.
Recognizing the need for a more radical change, we proposed the development of a new website prototype. This involved moving away from a heavy, inflexible plugin (BetterDocs) bogging down the site. Instead, we opted for a lighter, more adaptable plugin (ACF), which offered flexibility to tailor site functionality without compromising performance.
Results Achieved:
At the time of drafting this case study, the new prototype is still under development, with completion expected in a few months. Preliminary results, however, are promising. The client has reported improved ease of use and anticipates significant cost savings from the reduced need for external support. The lighter infrastructure has also resulted in faster load times during initial tests.
Key Learnings and Future Implications:
This project underscored the importance of adaptability in digital solutions. The switch to a more modular and lightweight plugin demonstrated that performance improvements do not always require heavy instruments in technologies; sometimes, choosing the right tool for the job is sufficient.
Moreover, the experience has influenced our approach to future projects, emphasizing the need for thorough initial assessments and a willingness to pivot strategies when necessary. For the client, this project is not just about a new website but a step towards greater operational efficiency and scalability as their business continues to grow.
Lessons Learned:
- Documentation and Diagnostics. Clear documentation is crucial from the outset of any project. It aids in troubleshooting and allows for smoother transitions and updates.
- Flexibility Over Features. Heavy plugins often come with many features that may not be necessary. A simpler, more adaptable solution can provide better performance and ease of management.
- Client Education. Working closely with the client and educating them about the technical aspects can lead to better decision-making and a more harmonious client-developer relationship.
Future Plans:
With the website development underway, we are also planning educational sessions for the client to help them manage their new system effectively. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to empower clients, ensuring they derive maximum value from our solutions.
