Department of Defence
BUILDING CONSISTENT, SCALABLE AND EFFICIENT WEBSITES
THE CHALLENGE
The Department of Defence faced a complex challenge with its sprawling web estate, characterised by an outdated content management system and a lack of coherent content governance.
The existing infrastructure, built around the antiquated WebMan manual, led to a tangled information architecture filled with obsolete and redundant content.
This situation resulted in a poor user experience, inconsistent branding across the network of websites and microsites, and ineffective content governance practices.
The need for a comprehensive overhaul was clear, necessitating a strategic approach to streamline content management, enhance user interface, and unify the digital presence under a consistent brand identity.
WHAT WE MADE
In response to these challenges, ICON embarked on a two-year, two-phase transformation project for the Defence web estate. The first phase involved developing the Defence Digital Content and Governance Strategy, informed by extensive consultations and a thorough review of over 100 Defence websites.
This phase laid the groundwork for creating accessible, audience-tailored content and establishing robust governance processes.
The second phase saw the creation of a new Defence Design System and a front-end component library, which facilitated a more intuitive user experience and consistent content creation.
ICON's design system now underpins the Defence, Navy, Army, Air Force, and Minister websites.
Additionally, ICON provided technical advice and training for Defence’s in-house developers, ensuring the sustainable adoption of the new systems. This holistic approach resulted in a streamlined, efficient, and user-focused digital ecosystem for the Department of Defence.
WHY IT MATTERED
This transformation project was not just about improving the Department of Defence’s web estate; it was about enhancing the accessibility and effectiveness of vital information and services for a wide range of users.
By establishing a clear, consistent, and user-friendly digital environment, the project significantly improved the user experience for Defence personnel and the public alike.
The new content governance strategy and digital design system ensured that information would be kept current, relevant, and accessible, reflecting a commitment to fairness, inclusion, and integrity.
The project’s success in creating a scalable and sustainable digital ecosystem has resulted in long-term cost and time savings, with the design system being utilised by Army, Airforce and Navy web teams.
The Defence Design System is a living library that will evolve and expand as needs grow. You can see it in action on the new Department of Defence website.
WHO MADE IT
UX/UI designers
Frontend and GovCMS developers
Content strategists and information architecture experts
Dedicated client service team
A range of client stakeholders and end users of the service.