PROFILE
WMBarr
Consumer Product Web Site
How can consumers get excited about products they perceive as commodities? WM Barr, the nation's largest packager and filler of paint chemicals, heavy-duty cleaners and solvents, wanted to further its tremendous growth and the image of its brand by engaging in a dialog directly with consumers.
Method Engine was engaged to create an entire portfolio of educational, engaging and conceptual web sites to build the brands of the individual product lines. We took each brand and created a lifestyle brand concept around it, using education as a platform to build brand loyalty.
We conducted research and studied market trends to identify what drives do-it-yourselfers and professional chemicals buyers. We found that all user groups craved how-to information. With fun and whimsical projects for consumers to enjoy, i.e. "Blonde chairs have more fun!", we made paint thinner and xylene seem not so scary after all.
Family Rescue
Pro-bono non-porfit work
Family Rescue is a Chicago not-for-profit that offers shelter and comprehensive support services to domestic violence victims. Method Engine took on this pro bono project to help Family Rescue gain additional funding, increase their name recognition, and reinforce their position as a recognized leader among domestic violence organizations.
The new design revolves around large photos of domestic violence victims. This strategy helps put a face on the problem. The photos and inspirational captions create an emotional connection with the audience; be it donors, volunteers or victims. Family Rescue's new website is an invaluable vehicle for reaching crucial fundraising goals and getting assistance to those in need.
Ingalls
Hospital System Portal
Ingalls Health System hired Method Engine to design a multifaceted website to reflect its brand position and serve the unique needs of several audiences, including patients, caregivers, physicians, and prospective employees. We also implemented a straightforward content management system to give multiple internal stakeholders the ability to regularly update content that is timely and fresh.
LifePhoto
Image Sharing Web Site
Lifephoto.com, a Milwaukee-based company offering photo books and other custom photo print gifts, asked Method Engine to create a user interface for its site to separate it from the competition.
Thermos
Brand Web Site
Thermos, manufacturer of insulated food and beverage products since 1904, engaged Method Engine to redesign and re-launch its web site. The site needed to include everything from catalog product info to lifestyle content. By restructuring existing content, we made it easy for consumers to find the products they needed by brand, category or activity and better understand how Thermos products fit into their lifestyles.
The site was built in such a way that new content and products could easily be added over time. Recently, Thermos released Foogo, a new line of insulated beverage and food containers for children and was easily able to integrate the product line into the existing site.
MB Bank
Online Specificaion Tool
MB Financial Bank has been serving Chicago's Metropolitan area for nearly a century. Method Engine was tasked with streamlining their site to bring the main services for both commercial and personal banking front and center for customers' needs.
Method Engine simplified the MB Financial Bank online experience and developed a single brand voice. Using this approach, we were able to highlight multiple messages and products while creating a clear navigational path for all customer sectors.
Christine Simpson
Artist's Online Portfolio
Christine Simpson, a Chicago-based metalsmith and jewelry artist, asked Method Engine to help her create an online portfolio to showcase the elegance of her work.
The portfolio was carefully designed to show all the collections at a glance, while giving the viewer the opportunity to view each piece as part of a collection. Users can browse by color and by shape.
Skyline Design
Online Specificaion Tool
Skyline Design specializes in custom etched, carved, painted and leaded architectural glass. Established in 1983, Skyline Design has earned a top reputation for high-end, custom installations. Method Engine completely re-designed and launched this site as an online portfolio and product specifier, that allows users to see all possible variations of the Architectural Glass product lines.
The interface allows users to view a variety of virtually rendered glass collections. The specifier tool speeds the process of reviewing, comparing and choosing product samples through an easy-to-use interface. This site has been featured in several design magazines, and was featured as a Macromedia (now Adobe) Flash Site of the Day when launched.