A new Historic Environment Scotland website is set to ‘transform how people engage with Scotland’s rich history online’, following the appointment of a leading digital transformation specialist to oversee the project.
Edinburgh-headquartered Storm ID has been tasked with redeveloping the website for the government agency, which maintains more than 300 properties of national importance including Edinburgh Castle, Skara Brae and Fort George.
The ‘landmark project’ will seek to improve navigation and site structure to make it easier for users to find the information they need, as well creating distinct user journeys for ‘Commercial’ and ‘Corporate’ audiences.
It will also develop a richer, more engaging digital experience that ‘meets modern user expectations’, and make sure the website is accessible across all devices and platforms.
“We are confident that our expertise in user-centred design and agile development will enable us to deliver a website that exceeds the HES team’s expectations,” said Linsey Lydon, client services director at Storm ID, which launched Historic Environment Scotland’s first website in 2015 when the organisation was founded from the merger of government agency Historic Scotland with the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS).
“We are excited to work with Storm ID on this important project,” said Ruth Quinn, digital manager at HES. “Their innovative approach and commitment to user experience align perfectly with our vision for the future of our digital presence.”
The new HES website will incorporate a range of features and functionality designed to enhance the user experience and support HES’s strategic objectives. These include:
- Seamless integration with HES’s new digital platform, trove.scot.
- Integration with a new Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM system, including a user-friendly membership portal.
- A more efficient and intuitive content management system that empowers HES staff to manage website content effectively.
- A robust search function that allows users to quickly and easily find the information they need.
- A strong emphasis on accessibility, ensuring the website can be used by everyone.