This month sees the launch of the new ­architecture.com website, the culmination of nearly two years’ work. We all use websites, apps and social media in such a different way to the last incarnation so it was clear the website needed to be significantly improved for RIBA members, and with an eye to the global audiences that websites can capture. With such an auspicious URL the aspiration to be the digital destination for those interested in architecture and the built environment was both logical and ambitious.

The launch is phase one of architecture.com’s transformation from a corporate website to a go-to destination for all those interested in architecture and architects – befitting its domain name. From easy to under­stand explanations of architectural styles and trends, to online galleries of RIBA exhibitions, the site should be brimming with ideas to educate and excite visitors. 

It was evident that the vast amount of information available on the old website was difficult to find. As a consequence, user experience was made a top priority in the re-design but without sacrificing the quality of information available. This has led to over 10,000 pages of content being moved and ordered to create a much more accessible and enjoyable experience for visitors to the site.

The aim was to create a more dynamic website with editorial content at the forefront – like many leading websites. This ­content continues to focus on demonstrating the value of architecture through informative, shareable and thought provoking web articles. The approach enables the RIBA to fulfil its charter for the promotion of architecture as well as demonstrate to the public the value of using a chartered architect. 

In a previous column I mentioned our work with RIBA for Clients. The ‘Find an Architect’ area of the website is a key component of this work and I believe its relaunch over the summer will bring the most immediate and immeasurable benefit to RIBA chartered practices. Potential clients will be able to browse the site to find relevant practices who meet their needs with better tailored searchable areas and distinct ­areas for chartered practices to showcase their work with good quality larger images, details and company profiles. Examples of projects, profiles of architects and easy to use search functions make finding the perfect architect easy and inspiring. It is up to you to ensure that the content you upload for your practice inspires and details the right kind of information for clients, and that you update your page with new projects so it displays your practice at its very best. Of course, I have been instructed to make sure my own practice is doing exactly that!

Now that the website has launched, the team will continue to upload fresh and regular content additions that will engage and inspire our target audiences. For the public it has informative, topical content that ­interests and increases our engagement on architecture and importantly is designed to be easily shared on social media. 

RIBA members have a dedicated ­section where they can take advantage of research and information, insider knowledge, high-quality support services, world-class CPD and lots more.  We will also continue to share our lobbying and campaigning work – hopefully now you will be able to find it! 

Naturally it is a work in progress with content being added all the time. I hope you enjoy visiting the new architecture.com and help share the information that is on there through your digital channels and with prospective clients. Do let me have your feedback.

@HodderPRIBA

NEXT GENERATION
Elections are now taking place for the next RIBA president and RIBA council. Look out for communications from the Electoral Reform Service to cast your vote.