AWARD launches new mobile website with multi-screen platform via Future Buro and Google

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mobile website.jpgThe Australasian Writers and Artistic Directors Association (AWARD) today launches the new AWARD website, designed to instinctively adapt and reformat itself to work seamlessly across different screen sizes, from mobile through to desktop.

The new “mobile-first” design allows AWARD to develop a more integrated and connected online community by broadening access to those who could not view the previous site on mobile and tablet devices that disallowed the use of the Flash plug-in.

While increasing reach, the site’s adaptability also works to improve user experience. In its mobile form, the format of the website is simplified, making content easier to read. This version also provides contextual messaging relevant to the mobile user; should an event like Circus 2013 take place, the homepage on the mobile site will display prominent links to the event’s location on Google Maps, and link to the speaker program for the event. 

The design for tablet and desktop also looks and feels like an app, in a move that further integrates the experience, with functions such as a simple slide-out menu tab with icon based navigation.

Says Craig Davis, AWARD chairman: “We are aware that the majority of our users are familiar with general app interaction, and by incorporating that visual language into the website, the experience across devices becomes much more seamless.”

The new site, designed by Future Buro and funded by Google, will be the central platform through which all AWARD communication will be funnelled, as well as housing curated content from Australasia and overseas to share inspiring work across creative related disciplines.

Says Tom Uglow, creative director at Google’s Creative Lab: “We all expect websites to work where we are and on whatever device we happen to be holding – it was an easy decision to support AWARD and Future Buro in creating such a responsive mobile experience for an important community.”

 

Says Davis: “We are hoping the site will become a regular bookmarked resource for industry information and creative inspiration – a place that easily connects members and the creative community.”