For this project, I focused on RiverheadLocal.com with the goal of creating an optimal user experience through a comprehensive redesign.

My Redesign Process

My design process began with in-depth user research to understand the needs of Riverhead and Southold residents, the primary audience of RiverheadLocal.com. I employed several methods:

• Surveys: I developed and distributed surveys to gather broad insights from the community.
• Interviews: I conducted one-on-one interviews to gain deeper qualitative information.
• Card Sorting: This exercise helped inform the structure of the website’s top navigation, ensuring intuitive categorization of content.
• Diary Study: Participants engaged in a long-term study, providing ongoing feedback on their news consumption habits.
• Usability Study: I observed three participants as they completed five common tasks on the existing RiverheadLocal.com site, identifying areas of friction and confusion.

Key Findings and Project Goal

The overwhelming consensus from all research pointed to a clear need for a website update. The ultimate goal of this redesign is to increase reader engagement and retention on RiverheadLocal.com, thereby mitigating the risk of users leaving for competing news sites on the East End.