Categories: Medical, Nonprofit

Timeline: June 2020 - Present

The San Bernardino Free Clinic project involved the redesign of an existing website for a nonprofit organization. As my very first website project, I recognized the need to update the website to improve patients' access to information about care and services. The previous website, hosted on Weebly, posed challenges in terms of editing and customization. Despite budget constraints, I embarked on this project to contribute and enhance the clinic's online presence.

The primary objective was to create an updated and user-friendly website for the San Bernardino Free Clinic. The website needed to provide easy access to information about patient care and services. Additionally, the project aimed to address the limitations of the previous website hosted on Weebly by utilizing a more flexible website builder and optimizing the site for efficient management and future updates.

Identifying Needs: Through research and understanding the clinic's requirements, I recognized the need for a website redesign that would improve access to care and services for patients, overcome limitations, and ensure ease of maintenance.

Self-Education: As my first website project, I dedicated significant time to self-learning. I acquired skills in website migration, design basics, and researching software tools that enhance user experience and usability.

1. Selecting a Website Builder: Considering budget constraints and the desire for ease of use, I chose the no-code website builder Elementor. Elementor provided a flexible platform for designing and customizing the new website.

2. Redesign and Content Organization: Through careful planning and consideration of user needs, I redesigned the website structure and content organization. The goal was to improve the overall user experience and make important information easily accessible to patients.

3. Migration and Development: Using my newly acquired knowledge in website migration, I transferred the content from the old Weebly website to the new Elementor-based website. This process required meticulous attention to detail to ensure a seamless transition and content accuracy.

4. Design Customization: Leveraging the features of Elementor, I crafted a visually appealing design that aligned with the clinic's branding. Customizations included selecting an appropriate color scheme, typography, and imagery to enhance the overall aesthetics and user engagement.

5. Integration of Tools: I researched and integrated software tools to improve website usability. This involved implementing features such as appointment booking systems, interactive forms for patient inquiries, and easy-to-use navigation menus.

1. Budget Constraints: Understanding the nonprofit's financial limitations, I ensured that the website redesign project adhered to strict budget constraints. The majority of available funds were prioritized for patient care and services.

2. Personal Investment: To see the project through, I personally invested my own money, covering the costs associated with the website domain, hosting, and other necessary expenses. This demonstrated my commitment to the project and the clinic's mission.

The culmination of effort and dedication resulted in a successful website redesign for the San Bernardino Free Clinic. Key outcomes of the project include:

1. Improved User Experience: The new website provided patients with more accessible and organized information about care and services. With Elementor's intuitive interface, navigation became more user-friendly, facilitating a seamless user experience.

2. Enhanced Design and Visual Appeal: Through careful design customization, the website achieved an updated, visually appealing look that aligned with the clinic's branding. Attention was given to typography, color schemes, and images to make the website engaging and professional.

3. Cost-Effective Solution: Despite budget constraints, the project was executed efficiently, utilizing the no-code capabilities of Elementor and personal financial investment. This approach ensured that the majority of the clinic's funds were available for patient care and services.

4. Knowledge and Skill Development: Undertaking this project as a learning opportunity enabled the acquisition of valuable skills in website migration, design basics, and research on software tools to improve usability. The project served as a foundation for future web development projects.

The redesign of the San Bernardino Free Clinic's website was a significant learning experience that required comprehensive research, self-education, and dedication. The project resulted in an improved website that successfully addressed the clinic's needs for better patient access to care and services. By utilizing the no-code website builder Elementor, the website achieved an enhanced user experience, cost-effectiveness, and the opportunity for future updates. This project served as a stepping stone in my journey to acquire web design and development skills, while contributing to the vital work of a nonprofit organization.