American Society for Microbiology
The American Society for Microbiology (ASM) is well-known in the field of science, puts on annual conferences, and has a great radio series that highlights the cool things that microbes do in our world. However, their website (www.microbeworld.org) needed updating and new technologies needed to be harnessed to extend the reach of their radio show and television segments. On behalf of Spectrum Science Communications, Jess Ferko led the interactive team to redesign the website and utlitize new technologies like iTunes to extend its reach.
The goal of the new site was to get the next generation of scientists interested in microbiology and to educate all kids from 5th grade through college on the interesting world of microbes, especially if they were not already interested in science. The site's information architecture cross-referenced material for students and teachers alike, referencing the National Science Standards so teachers knew how to use the material in their required curriculum for their particular grade. The site included interviews with scientists, everyday uses of microbes, and science experiments.
During the creative concepting, we took three very different approaches to reaching this audience. We transformed the radio series into a syndicated iTunes feed (and other aggregators) that could be played using the tear-off Flash player within the site or on their MP3 player. We also took their television segments and created a new series of video podcasts.Other features to get the visitors involved included a custom animated screen saver, e-vites, and an advanced search on the asset database.
Per the client's RFP, the site was built in ASP and ASP .NET with Macromedia Contribute as its content management system (CMS), and it was delivered with a comprehensive manual and styleguide for ASM's in-house webmaster.The site is maintained today by ASM.
Microbeworld.org was the recipient of multiple accolades including:
- 2007 Hermes Creative Awards: Honorable Mention
- Association TRENDS 2006 All Media Contest: Gold for best design, interactivity and overall effectiveness in Web site category
