Digital Equity

Client Overview

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Our client, a non-profit organization dedicated to digital equity, aimed to expand broadband access across the country, particularly in underserved rural areas often referred to as “dead zones.” To support this mission, they sought to develop a nationwide web application that empowers individuals to contribute to a broader understanding of mobile connectivity..

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The Challenge

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To achieve their objectives, the client needed a web application that could:

• Educate and engage users on the importance of broadband mapping and digital inclusion
• Enable users to run mobile speed tests and consent to share their results
• Aggregate and visualize mobile connectivity data across different regions
• Communicate the organization’s mission and potential impact to users and stakeholders
• Provide a seamless, accessible, and visually compelling experience across devices

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1. Discovery Phase

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We began with an in-depth discovery process, conducting interviews with stakeholders to ensure alignment and clarity around:

• The organization’s program objectives and long-term mission
• Target user behaviors, expectations, and motivations
• Key design, functionality, and technical requirements

This phase laid the foundation for a user-centered, purpose-driven solution.

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2. Design & Prototype Development

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During this phase, we focused on translating discovery insights into a user-centered, visually engaging experience. Key activities included::

• Delivering multiple rounds of mockups and design file revisions, refined through client feedback to ensure alignment with their mission and user needs
• Developing user journey maps to visualize how different audience segments would interact with the platform—from initial landing through speed testing, data consent, and engagement incentives
• Recommending UX improvements centered on clarity, accessibility, and frictionless participation
• Exploring visual identity options, including logo iterations and animation concepts, to reflect the organization’s values and tone

We also conducted gamification strategy workshops informed by Self-Determination Theory, helping shape features such as badges, sweepstakes, and playful messaging to increase motivation and long-term engagement.

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3. MVP Development

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To meet a fast-moving timeline, we built a functional MVP featuring::

• Front-end development using Angular
• Integration of the M-Labs speed test API to enable real-time mobile connectivity testing
• An embeddable iFrame widget so the application could be deployed across partner and municipal websites

This MVP served as a powerful early demonstration to align stakeholders and test usability.

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4. Full-Stack Development

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Following MVP approval, we delivered a full-stack application with:

• A back end built on MongoDB and Express for secure and scalable data handling
• Integrated front-end and back-end systems for a seamless user experience
• Implementation of Google Analytics for user tracking, behavior analysis, and optimization

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4. Iterative Feedback Loop

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Throughout the process, we maintained consistent communication through:

• Bi-weekly updates, including live demos, slide presentations, and email briefs
• Fast design and feature iterations in response to evolving feedback
• A transparent, agile process that ensured the final product met and exceeded expectations

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Solution Implementation

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We delivered a custom full-stack web application that:

• Enabled users to run mobile speed tests and submit consented connectivity data
• Seamlessly integrated a refined user experience with scalable back-end functionality
• Included custom animations and branded design elements to ensure a cohesive, engaging interface
• Featured an embeddable iFrame widget for easy integration into partner and municipal websites
• Implemented Google Analytics for user event tracking and optimization insights

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Measurable Outcomes

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Our partnership with this organization yielded significant, impactful results:

• A fully functional web application delivered ahead of schedule
• Secure, read-only database access for the client, allowing easy reporting and analysis without the need for technical support
• Positive client feedback on communication, design quality, and responsiveness throughout the project

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Long-Term Impact

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By delivering a scalable, production-ready solution on time and on budget, we empowered the client to::

• Engage users across the U.S. in mapping mobile connectivity in their communities
• Collaborate with municipalities, service providers, and data partners using real-world insights gathered through the platform
• Advance their digital equity mission with a tool designed to make invisible gaps in broadband coverage visible, and actionable

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Why This Matters for You

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If you’re looking to build a custom web application under tight timelines - with a focus on meaningful impact and polished design, our team brings:

• A deep, collaborative approach to understanding your mission and goals
• Proven expertise in delivering elegant, full-stack digital products
• A focus on measurable results, scalable architecture, and user engagement

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Let’s talk about how we can bring your vision to life.

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