Background
They're popping up everywhere. Some call them Resource Centers. Others call them Content Hubs or Digital Resource Libraries. But what are they exactly? And why are they so popular? We’ve built dozens, and in our experience it boils down to:
A one-stop shop where users can find the expertise they're looking for.
A great user experience with modern, mobile-friendly search, and ecommerce.
Easy management so you can update, curate and keep up with a fast-moving world.
Simple, right? On one level, it's common sense. But the impact can be profound.
To understand why, think for a minute about the typical organization website. It’s trying to do a lot of things at once: Raise awareness. Deliver member benefits. Promote the annual meeting. Facilitate basic transactions like renewals and inquiries. Etc. Etc. Etc. All really important stuff, but even at the best-managed organizations, it can easily lead to a maze of confusing categories and silos.
So what's the solution? Well, for starters…
It's NOT another site redesign!
A redesign does nothing to address the underlying complexity. A content hub lets you narrow focus radically to the interests of your target audience and your specific goals. For example…
The Auto Care Association—Created their Digital Hub to unite diverse content types and improve member experience.
The Earthworm Foundation—Created their Content Bank to promote sustainable supply chains by sharing media assets with members.
Spartan Race, Inc—Created their Media Fest Content Hub to connect event participants, and keep them coming back for event photos and podcasts.
After building these hubs and dozens of others, we know exactly what's needed to make them successful. We're excited to share these lessons and take you through the process step-by-step.