WEBSITE DESIGN

We design and build modern, accessible websites that help people find what they need, understand what you offer, and take action.

A Structural Approach to Design

At Swank, website design is an architectural process. We translate complex requirements into websites that are intuitive to navigate, practical to manage, and built for real-world use.

We prioritize information architecture and inclusive design so your website stays clear as content grows and organizational needs evolve.

Project Scope Note: This service focuses on the design and build of a new website. For existing websites requiring modernization, performance improvements, or ongoing support, please explore our broader [Website Solutions] framework.


When Website Design Is the Right Starting Point?

Website design is the right starting point when you need a fresh, intentional structure to support new programs, diverse audiences, or evolving ways of working.

You may need this service if you are:

Website design is distinct from redesign or ongoing website management. When an organization already has an established website that requires modernization, structural improvement, or long-term support, those needs are addressed through dedicated services designed for those stages of the website lifecycle.

What We Focus On

We focus on the fundamentals that make websites clear, accessible, and practical to manage over time.

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Information Architecture:

Mapping content hierarchies so information is logically organized for diverse audiences.

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User Experience (UX) Strategy:

Reducing friction so users can quickly find what they need and take meaningful action across devices.

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Inclusive Design and Accessibility:

Applying design patterns that support accessible outcomes for users with diverse needs.

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Responsive Performance:

Ensuring the site loads reliably and works consistently across mobile and desktop environments.

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Content Manageability:

Using structured CMS patterns so staff can update content without risking the site’s structure or integrity.

A Structured, Collaborative Process

Our process provides clarity at every stage, ensuring decisions stay grounded in your organization’s goals and operational reality.

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Phase 1: Discovery & Alignment

Clarifying audiences, goals, requirements, and internal realities through stakeholder engagement.

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Phase 2: Information Architecture & Wireframing

Establishing the structural blueprint (sitemap and navigation) before visual design begins.

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Phase 3: Visual Design & Prototyping:

Applying brand identity to create a polished, credible interface that supports clear communication.

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Phase 4: Development & Implementation:

Turning designs into a fast, responsive website built to perform reliably across devices.

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Phase 5: Quality Assurance, Training, & Launch:

Rigorous testing and handoff training so your team can manage routine updates confidently.

Core Deliverables: Sitemap and navigation model, wireframes, design prototype, built website, and CMS handoff documentation.

Trusted by Organizations with Complex Requirements

Our approach is designed for organizations that require thoughtful design, accessibility-aware deliverables, and deep stakeholder collaboration.

"Working with Ben and his team was an excellent experience. From the very beginning, I was impressed by how deeply Ben engaged with the details of our project in order to thoughtfully weave key elements into the design. He created pieces that were not only visually compelling but also meaningful. His approach showed a clear respect for the project’s purpose, and the result exceeded our expectations. I highly recommend Ben to anyone looking for a creative partner who truly listens and delivers impactful designs."
- Wynonna Smoke
Former Indigenous Strategic Advisor at Hamilton Health Sciences

Strategic Considerations (FAQ)

Website projects often come with the same practical questions: timelines, platform selection, bilingual structure, content responsibilities, integrations, and what support looks like after launch. The FAQ below outlines how we approach these decisions so your website stays clear for users, manageable for staff, and aligned with your internal review, governance, privacy, and accessibility requirements.

How long does a typical website project take?

Timelines vary based on scope, content volume, integrations, and stakeholder approvals. Straightforward website builds can often be completed in 6 to 8 weeks when content is ready and decisions move quickly. Larger websites with more pages, new content development, multiple reviewers, and added accessibility or compliance requirements typically take longer, often 10 to 14 weeks. Once scope is confirmed, we provide a clear timeline and milestones based on your internal review process.

What platforms / CMS do you use for website builds?

Our goal is to set your organization up for long-term success, not force you into a one-size-fits-all tool. We recommend the right platform during discovery based on what matters most for your team, including who will be updating the site, governance and data residency requirements, scalability, accessibility needs, and long-term maintainability.

Do you support bilingual or multi-language websites?

Yes. We design bilingual and multi-language websites in a way that stays clear for users and manageable for staff. We plan the information architecture and navigation so that switching between languages is seamless for the visitor and easy for your team to maintain. We support English, French, and other languages based on your specific content and translation workflows.

Do you provide website copywriting, or do we need to supply the content?

Either approach works. If you already have content, we can refine it for clarity and ensure it fits the website’s information architecture and accessibility goals. If you need support, we can help write or rewrite key pages so your brand messaging is clear, consistent, and action-focused. We also incorporate on-page SEO best practices to ensure content is optimized for both users and search engines. Early in the process, we confirm what content is being provided and who owns approvals so your timeline stays predictable.

Can you integrate forms, donations, bookings, e-commerce, and third-party tools like CRMs?

Yes. We can integrate common tools such as contact and intake forms, donation platforms, booking systems, e-commerce functionality, and CRM-connected workflows. We can also support analytics and tracking setup so you can measure key actions like form submissions, donations, bookings, and purchases. During discovery, we confirm what tools you are using (or need), how data should flow, and any governance, privacy, or accessibility requirements. We then design the user journey and back-end setup so it is clear for users and practical for staff to manage.

What happens after launch, and do you offer ongoing support?

Yes. Ongoing support is available through our [Website Solutions] framework, including content updates, performance monitoring, security and software maintenance (where applicable), accessibility support, and ongoing improvements. Every project includes a post-launch support period, with longer-term plans available for organizations that want ongoing management, hosting coordination, and analytics support.

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Discuss Your Website Design Needs

Whether you’re starting fresh or navigating a complex transition, we can help you scope a clear, strategic path forward. Tell us about your organization’s goals, timeline, and any governance requirements, and we’ll recommend next steps.