About the Project
Client: Engage NWA
Industry: Community Development / Business Directory
Website: directory.engagenwa.org
Project Overview
Completely rebuilt Engage NWA’s community directory from the ground up, transforming it from an outdated, difficult-to-use platform into a modern, user-friendly resource that connects Northwest Arkansas residents with diverse businesses and organizations across the region.
Key Features Implemented
- Self-Service Business Management: Intuitive submission and editing interface allowing community members to add and update their own business listings without technical assistance
- Advanced Search & Filtering: Robust search functionality with multiple filter options enabling users to quickly find exactly what they’re looking for in NWA’s diverse business landscape
- Enhanced Business Profiles: Expanded data fields capturing more detailed, relevant business information that helps users make informed decisions
- Modern, Clean Design: Contemporary visual design that prioritizes usability and accessibility while reflecting Engage NWA’s professional brand
- Mobile-Responsive Interface: Seamless experience across all devices for on-the-go directory searches
- Improved Navigation: Intuitive information architecture that makes browsing and discovery effortless
Target Audience
Primary: Northwest Arkansas residents seeking diverse, inclusive businesses and organizations to support
Secondary: Business owners and community organizations wanting to increase visibility and connect with potential customers
Tertiary: New residents and visitors looking to discover the region’s diverse business ecosystem
Value Delivered
- Reduced Administrative Burden: Self-service features eliminate bottleneck of staff manually managing hundreds of listings
- Increased Directory Accuracy: Business owners keeping their own information current ensures data stays fresh and reliable
- Better User Experience: Modern search and filtering capabilities mean users actually find what they need, increasing directory utility and engagement
- Community Empowerment: Easy submission process removes barriers for small businesses and diverse entrepreneurs to gain visibility
- Mission Alignment: Better showcases NWA’s diverse business community, directly supporting Engage NWA’s inclusion and economic development goals
- Scalability: Improved architecture supports continued growth as more businesses and users engage with the platform
Project Outcome
The rebuilt directory transforms from a static, maintenance-heavy resource into a dynamic, self-sustaining community tool. By making it easy for businesses to participate and users to find what they need, the directory becomes genuinely useful—driving engagement, supporting diverse entrepreneurs, and demonstrating Engage NWA’s commitment to practical inclusion work. The modern design and functionality reflect the region’s growth and sophistication, positioning the directory as an essential resource for anyone seeking to engage with Northwest Arkansas’s diverse business community.
This project demonstrates your ability to rebuild complex, database-driven platforms that serve multiple user types with competing needs—balancing ease of contribution with quality of information, and accessibility with functionality—resulting in a tool that actually gets used and advances organizational mission.