Ease of Use

We practice user-centric design that yields simpler workflow, effective navigation, and convenient tools. We focus on how users interact with a site, and ensure that all scenarios are well defined. Ease of use is fundamental to a successful site. We believe that sites that are easier to use can drive traffic – unique visitors, page-views, and page-views per visit.

• Reduce the number of steps to complete a process.
• Collect only the appropriate information from users.
• Understand the potential error scenarios, and how to handle these errors appropriately.
• Use context-specific error messages for forms and fields.
• Ensure that tools such as Search or Share Content are available throughout the site.
• Provide breadcrumbs and other navigational aids.

Integrated Site Search

Search is a powerful tool for users to find content and engage users. We have implemented a range of site search tools, including simple keyword search with paginated results, and advanced search with metadata, content filters, and results categorized by content taxonomies. In addition, we understand that users want to search and browse for content. Well-designed searching and browse features will increase user interest and time spent on the site.

• Implement a robust site search with paginated or categorized results.
• Support metadata and full-text search of all digital assets.
• Implement a “smart” search that supports word stems (i.e., implicit wild cards for terms).
• Use filters and sorting in advanced search to produce better results.
• Ensure that users can tag content, using pre-defined tags or user tags.
• Use a content taxonomy to categorize search results.

Search Engine Optimization

We have extensive experience in building sites with outstanding search engine ranking, and understand that search engine optimization is a function of design and engineering. For most sites, SEO will complement a brand-oriented approach to ensure that potential users can find content that matches their interests. As users of all demographic groups continue to rely on search, we anticipate that an effective SEO strategy will generate significant membership and traffic.

• Use static, search engine-friendly, URLs.
• Use a single distinct URL for each page.
• Generate meta tags, such as “Title” and others, used by search engines.
• Generate index pages with cross-links to content to improve rankings.
• Embed search terms and phrases in specific pages.
• Reduce URL changes to improve organic rankings.

Design for the Web

Our project teams understand the specific requirements of web-based systems. A well-designed site must follow critical standards for the web. Our experienced staff understands these standards, and how to produce a site that exhibits both superior design and engineering. A robust design improves the overall user experience, and helps to retain users that might otherwise abandon the site due to poor display on their browser or platform.

• Optimize resolution and formats of graphics for web delivery.
• Design for a range of display resolutions and geometry.Use simple and effective icons for user controls.
• Use technologies with broad and consistent support by browsers.
• Support a range of browsers, including Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and Apple Safari.
• Test on a range of display resolutions, browsers, and platforms.

Interactivity

We understand that certain sites require more interactive features to engage users. Our work building sites for online communities, social networking, and gaming sites has shown the need for more sophisticated interfaces. Quoin has real-world experience in creating sites with the right balance of usability, interactivity, and workflow. Our project teams also have the technical skills to build interactive components that are robust, seamlessly integrated, and capable of supporting high traffic.

• Use rollovers to communicate additional information about an object.
• Use pop ups to call attention to new opportunities for the user.
• Use pop-ups, only if a new context is appropriate, such as for help, or selecting an object.
• Use drag-and-drop so a user can manipulate objects and get feedback.
• Use graphic controls to highlight options that are available to a user.
• Use animations, audio, and video for more engaging content.

Design for Multiple Channels

We understand the demands of publishing to print, web, and mobile delivery channels. Our project teams have hands-on experience with the critical standards for managing content, and how to transform content for different platforms.  Our approach is to build systems that can easily acquire, manage, and deliver content in a multi media and multi channel environment.