From business card to connection machine
Science is full of ideas that can change the world. But how do you make sure those ideas work with the people who can move them forward? That question was central when IXA and AmSIA knocked on our door.
How we prepared IXA and AmSIA for impact online.
Short introduction
IXA (Innovation Exchange Amsterdam) is the valorization and knowledge transfer team of the University of Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit, Hogeschool van Amsterdam, and Amsterdam UMC. Their mission? To help researchers translate their knowledge into real impact, whether that impact is social, medical, or commercial. IXA supports researchers in applying for patents, founding spin-offs, finding funding, and partnering with external partners.
AmSIA – the Amsterdam Science & Innovation Award – is an annual event where the most innovative scientific idea of Amsterdam is awarded. The goal: to give groundbreaking ideas a stage, bridge the gap between science and society, and accelerate innovation.
The question
The existing websites of IXA and AmSIA no longer matched who they are – and especially what they want to achieve. The wish: one platform that shows the power of both initiatives. A platform that clearly explains, inspires and moves visitors. Researchers need to find easily how to proceed with their idea. Partners must understand what IXA can do for them. The relevance for students, policy makers, and entrepreneurs needs to be clear at a glance.
Our approach
We started at the basics: what do the different audiences want? What do they expect from the site? And how do we make sure they get there quickly, without getting lost in content? That led to a completely new information architecture and a renewed navigation structure – logical, intuitive and task-oriented.
Based on that, we developed wireframes, user flows and an interactive prototype. In each step, we put the end user at the center. The result is a digital experience that is smart and clear, but also attractive and accessible (fully WCAG-proof).
We added interactive tools, such as a decision tree and dynamic maps, so that visitors do not have to search – but are guided to the right information or contact person. We also made room for conversion: from requesting advice to registering for events.
Stronger together
AmSIA was given a recognizable place within the IXA domain. Visitors can enter specifically through AmSIA, but they also naturally come into contact with IXA’s other initiatives. That cross-pollination increases the reach, strengthens the brand experience, and provides more relevance.
The result
A future-proof WordPress platform built on modular components. Flexible in management, scalable in content, ready for the campaigns of 2025. We added an SEO-proof content structure.
From separate initiatives to one clear and powerful platform that connects science with society. And that is exactly what IXA and AmSIA stand for.