Initial Research

The client is a NYC-based law firm specializing in workers' compensation suits. They are a new firm, and had their site built on top of a template.
I had a meeting with the client - they detailed a need for a site that was modern, professional, and useable. Doing my own research, I identified a need to give space to the content, and easily navigable.

Priority of Features

Using the Moscow Method, I created a prioritization of features for my design sprint. 
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I can work on my essentials, like accessibility, first.
I can then tackle easy wins, like content hierarchy.
‍Finally, I have stretch goals, like re-writing the copy. 

With a clear roadmap, I can work quickly and efficiently. 

I researched and compiled a list of direct (NYC law firm) websites, as well as indirect (out of state law firm, professional companies) websites. I then built lo-fi screens of each, to isolate their  structural strengths.

I built a hierarchy of color and typography that I would follow for my hi-fi screens.

I was able to achieve a clear hierarchy of space by establishing order to the color and type. As a result, I could increase whitespace while removing unnecessary borders and boxes. 

This was a new type of design challenge for me, because I was not in contact with the client during the design phase. I had a meeting with the client, then went through the entire design process. I followed up with a detailed and guided presentation of the work I had done, and hoped I had performed to their expectations.

The main piece of feedback: more images. I had removed the hero and footer images in favor of solid color and strong typography. However, the client wanted some more warmth and personal touch. I implemented hover states and filters for the images in a way that prioritized accessibility.

Actionable Insight

I would like to present a choice of style tiles to the client before starting the sprint. The client did not like the hero font I chose, and finding a new one to present to the client was a new challenge at such a late stage of the design process.
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I would have liked to do direct user research for this project. I tested with the client, and with a friend, but did not have access to a returning user to observe their patterns. 

Further Goals

I would like to work further with the client in a couple of areas. A lot of competitive law firms have chatbots, and I would like to research their market use and benefits to promote this to the client.
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I would have like to create a custom animation for the contact form. The client is striving for professionalism, but I think a subtle animation would confirm that the user’s message has been received and is being cared for.