Cheshire & Warrington Institute of Technology

Client Challenge

Cheshire and Warrington Institute of Technology (CWIoT) faced the significant challenge of establishing a dynamic, comprehensive digital presence that accurately represented its status as a leader in delivering higher technical education across diverse sectors. With the planned launch of a new website to align with other Institute of Technology (IoT) networks and foster collaboration among educational and industrial partners, CWIoT required a robust, user-centric website that could handle complex content management needs while meeting stringent accessibility and security standards.

Client Opportunity

This project offered an opportunity to transform CWIoT’s digital interface to better engage with potential students, industry partners, and educational collaborators. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and Gemstone’s expertise, CWIoT aimed to significantly enhance its online visibility and functionality, facilitating the recruitment of students and strengthening ties with key industry players.

Our Solution

Gemstone collaborated closely with CWIoT to develop a bespoke digital platform tailored to the needs of the IoT network. Utilising WordPress coupled with the Elementor Pro page builder, our team designed a flexible, intuitive website that enables seamless management of content by CWIoT staff and partners. Our approach included:

• User Experience Design: Crafting a user-friendly interface that aligns with IoT brand guidelines, ensuring a consistent and engaging user experience across all digital touchpoints.
• Advanced Security Measures: Implementing robust security protocols, including regular updates and strict access controls, to protect sensitive data and comply with GDPR requirements.
• Scalable Content Management: Developing a comprehensive CMS that allows for easy updates and integration of content from various collaborators, ensuring that the website remains dynamic and informative.
• Accessibility Compliance: Ensuring the website meets the highest standards of WCAG 2.1 to guarantee accessibility for all users.

The Results

With the launch of the new CWIoT website, the institute has seen a marked improvement in user engagement and functionality. The platform not only aligns with the IoT’s mission but also sets a benchmark for academic and industry collaboration through digital means. Highlights include:

• Increased Engagement: The intuitive design and improved functionality have led to a significant uptick in user interaction, with more prospective students exploring educational opportunities.
• Enhanced Collaboration: The new platform facilitates better collaboration among educational institutions and industry partners, fostering innovation and integration across sectors.
• Future-Ready: Built with scalability in mind, the website is equipped to adapt to evolving educational needs and technological advancements.