It was specified that the site must:

1. Allow the client to easily update the content on the site.


2. Contain unique graphic design and programming elements.


3. Accept secure credit-card donations.


4. Allow users to contact the client to request more information.

Solution:

     1. Allow the client to easily update the content on the site.

We developed a custom Content Management solution that allows the client to log into a special administration console and edit the content on her site in a manner as easy as using a word processor by using a built-in WYSIWYG ("What you see is what you get") editor. This includes the use of a custom image management utility that we designed that makes it easy to upload and include photos on the site as well.

    2. Contain unique graphic design and programming elements.

The site involved a number of unique graphical elements. Paying careful attention to the national BBBS marketing image and working within its specific guidelines for colors, fonts, and graphical elements, we opted to use an full assortment of primary colors that convey the lively, youthful spirit embodied by the young persons benefited by the organization. We created an animated header using Macromedia Flash in which an endless stream of photographs scrolls across, each showing a child and his or her older mentor. To add to the emotional impact, we also displayed quotes that fade in and out.

We also created a custom navigation system from scratch using advanced JavaScript and dhtml. The menu system features multiple drop-downs and changes colors for each top-level area, in keeping with the multi-colored theme of the site. The program was also designed for easy maintainability should the need arise to add or remove menu items or adjust their appearance.

    3. Accept secure credit-card donations.

To accept donations online via credit-card, we implemented a secure, encrypted payment section on the site, and utilized multiple levels of validation, via JavaScript on the client, on the server, and finally, via the transaction gateway. We worked with their existing merchant providers and developed a custom program to pass data to and from the gateway.

    4. Allow users to contact the client to request more information.

We developed a contact form that automatically gets sent to the appropriate contact person. The form allows the user to select the items about which he or she wishes to receive more information.