NIMHD Redesign
ROLE
Lead UX/UI Designer
TOOLS
Figma, Hotjar, Notion, Jira
CLIENT
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)
Overview
The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) needed a complete website overhaul to better align with modern web standards, improve accessibility, and deliver a more intuitive user experience. I joined the project as the Lead UX/UI Designer, and led efforts to conduct a content audit, restructure the information architecture (IA), and develop a custom child design system based on the U.S. Web Design System (USWDS) to create responsive designs for the site. The primary goals were to meet the 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act (IDEA), ensure Section 508 Compliance, and enhance usability for diverse audiences, which included researchers, public health professionals, and community organizations.
The Challenge
The NIMHD website faced critical issues: complex navigation structures, accessibility shortcomings, and a lack of responsive design, which made it difficult for users to engage effectively across devices. These issues created barriers to communication with key user groups and highlighted the need for a comprehensive, user-centric redesign.
The Process
I started out by conducting a comprehensive content audit with the team diving into user/audience analysis based on research findings, developing and identifying user painpoints and key user groups, such as researchers, legislators, and underserved communities. Google Analytics data revealed high bounce rates, while an accessibility audit identified over 435 pages with WCAG compliance issues. These insights shaped our approach to IA restructuring and content prioritization for the site.
Once the design phase began, I adapted the USWDS to create a tailored child design system, focusing on responsive, mobile-friendly, and accessible design elements. The design process followed an iterative approach, using wireframes and design walk-throughs, while prototypes were used to test usability and accessible interaction design. Collaboration with content strategists, developers, and stakeholders ensured that each phase met user needs and strategic business goals. Detailed annotations and organized Figma files facilitated a seamless review, approval, and handoff with the team.
The Results
The NIMHD website faced critical issues: complex navigation structures, accessibility shortcomings, and a lack of responsive design, which made it difficult for users to engage effectively across devices. These issues created barriers to communication with key user groups and highlighted the need for a comprehensive, user-centric redesign.
