Turning off the Silence with a dynamic digital resource centre to further the mission of eradicating gender-based violence.
In the Margins and Press Red worked together to build a much needed digital resouce centre to help people and organisations looking for support.
A mobile-first approach to creating a user-intuitive resource hub using empathy-led and story-based design.
The Story
Press Red is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for issues related to violence and oppression against women and girls. They wanted to create a digital resource center and online directory that would be accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly, with the goal of supporting a wide range of individuals seeking information, resources, and guidance.
We were tasked with designing an intuitive and empathetic digital space where users, particularly those in vulnerable situations, could easily navigate through resources, connect with support services, and find valuable information.
Challenge:
The core challenge was twofold:
- Sensitive User Group: The users accessing the website often face difficult and traumatic situations. It was crucial to design a site that was nurturing, non-intimidating, and sensitive to their needs.
- Complex Information Architecture: Press Red’s resources spanned a broad spectrum of topics and services, requiring a clear, well-organized structure for users to find information easily without feeling overwhelmed.
Additionally, there was a need to incorporate an online directory for users to connect with vetted local and international support organizations, meaning the site had to ensure security and user privacy.
Approach:
User Research & Empathy Mapping: We began by conducting interviews with Press Red’s target audience—women, survivors, advocates, and support organizations. Our goal was to uncover their specific pain points and emotional triggers when accessing online resources. Empathy mapping helped us identify key user needs and sensitivities, guiding the design toward a comforting and emotionally intelligent interface.
Information Architecture & Content Strategy: Organizing the vast array of resources was critical. We used a data-led approach to develop a clear and concise information hierarchy, ensuring users could intuitively navigate through the site. This involved:
- Creating persona-driven pathways for different user types, such as survivors seeking immediate help, individuals looking for educational content, and advocates wanting to support.
- Designing filters and a search function for the online directory that allowed users to find organizations based on location, service type, and language options.
Sector
Gender-Based Violence
Services
UX Website Design
Information Architecture
User Research
Content Strategy
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UX Design: The website was designed with a soft visual elements to ensure users felt safe and supported. The navigation is minimalist, with clear buttons, plenty of white space, and short, reassuring copy.
Key design elements include:
- Accessible design: Ensuring the site meets WCAG accessibility standards, with readable fonts, a high-contrast mode, and clear navigation cues.
- Emotive imagery: Carefully chosen imagery that reflects hope and empowerment without triggering traumatic emotions.
- Content warnings and privacy measures: A discreet exit button and content warning labels to ensure the emotional safety of users.
Online Directory Integration: The directory allows users to search for organizations based on specific needs. We used a data-secure system that ensures the protection of user information and integrates legally compliant data collection to maintain trust and transparency. The directory includes resources across different countries, and each entry is vetted to ensure it aligns with Press Red’s mission.
Testing & Iteration: Before launch, the website underwent thorough usability testing, including:
- Testing with actual users from the Press Red community to gather feedback.
- Iterating based on user behavior patterns, ensuring that the website’s flow felt natural, and reducing friction in the user journey.
Empathetic Language: The content throughout the website was crafted with empathy and care, ensuring that users feel understood and supported. Press Red’s tone was consistent—reassuring and empowering without being overwhelming.
Outcome:
The Press Red Digital Resource Center & Online Directory serves as a vital tool for individuals seeking help and education on violence against women and girls. Post-launch analytics have shown:
- Increased Engagement: Users spend more time on the site, navigating resources with ease and confidence.
- Higher Conversion Rates: More users are successfully connecting with support organizations through the online directory, with over 100 entries viewed daily.
The website transformed the way Press Red connects with its audience, offering an inclusive, secure, and supportive online space that makes a real difference.
Whether you’re looking to create an inclusive website, impactful branding, or a community-driven digital campaign, our team is dedicated to crafting designs that reflect your values and drive positive change.
Together, we can build solutions that inspire action and transform communities for the better.