MOBILE FIRST – THE NEW INNOVATIVE WEBSITE OF THE KUFSTEIN UNI

The website of the Kufstein University of Applied Sciences has been completely revised with the relaunch. In addition to the new, contemporary design, the focus was particularly on user-friendliness and an optimized display for mobile devices.

OPTIMIZED FOR MODERN USAGE

“A large proportion of our target groups access the website using smartphones and tablets. That's why we decided to use the mobile-first principle for the relaunch,” explains Prof. (FH) Dr. Thomas Madritsch, CEO Managing Director of the FH Kufstein Tirol. The mobile version of the website was developed before the desktop version in order to meet the needs of the target groups.

BALANCED CONTENT, INTUITIVE NAVIGATION AND SHORT PATHS

A central goal of the relaunch was to present the extensive information about the higher education institution in a compact and clear form. “We took care to structure the content clearly and to make the navigation more intuitive,” adds Christina Bernhart, Content Development Expert at the Kufstein University of Applied Sciences, who is in charge of project management and is editorially responsible.

Fewer subpages and a clear menu structure ensure that users quickly find the information they are looking for. Call-to-action functions guarantee applicants short paths. “Our goal is to make the transition from prospective to actual applicant as easy as possible,” emphasizes Bernhart.

In addition, the Study Finder and Course Finder were developed specifically for the new website. These tools help users to find out more about the wide range of 26 degree programs and 17 MBA and continuing education courses. The so-called spotlight sections on the home page also provide a quick overview of the bachelor's and master's programs as well as the MBA and continuing education courses offered by the FH Kufstein Tirol.

ACCESSIBILITY AND TECHNICAL OPTIMIZATIONS

Another key element of the relaunch was to make the website more accessible. The color scheme was adapted in line with the specifications of the W3 Consortium, which develops international web standards, to ensure that the website is accessible to all users.

There have also been many technical innovations. For example, hosting has been moved to the cloud, which results in faster loading times. “For the technical implementation, we secured the expertise of the Vienna-based agency Brainformance IT-Services GmbH,” explains Prof. (FH) Lukas Demetz, PhD, technical project manager of the website relaunch. The latest technology, database connections and automation complete the new website.

UNIFORM VISUAL LANGUAGE – FOCUS ON OUR OWN STUDENTS

In addition to the structural and textual revision, great importance was also attached to the visual design. “We want to convey an on-site experience through the imagery,” explains Christina Bernhart. ‘The visual language is now consistent to ensure a harmonious and contemporary look,’ says the editorial director. ”Our students are the faces of our website. With their authenticity and genuine emotions, they reflect the relaxed and welcoming spirit of the campus.”

WEBSITE AS A JOINT PROJECT

The relaunch was a comprehensive joint project of the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol. In addition to the IT Services and Software Development team, led by Lukas Demetz, and the marketing team, consisting of Christina Bernhart and Verena Neumayr, students from the Marketing & Communication Management and Web Business & Technology (now: Coding & Digital Design) degree programs were also involved.

“The students have made a valuable contribution to the success of the project with their commitment,” emphasizes Bernhart. ‘This allowed the perspective of the main target group to be incorporated directly.’ In addition, almost all departments of the higher education institution were involved, which further strengthened the success of the project.

FUTURE-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT

The relaunch does not only include the public area of the website. The student, teacher and employee portals will also be redesigned in a second project phase. The aim is to provide all users of the FH Kufstein Tirol with the best possible support and an outstanding online experience.

PERFECTLY PREPARED FOR THE CHALLENGES AHEAD

The new website of the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol combines modern design, a high level of user-friendliness and technical innovation. With its mobile-first approach and clear structure, it offers students, employees and interested parties an optimized user experience – and is well prepared for the requirements of the digital future.