The International Code Council (ICC) faced a challenge that large organizations commonly face with multiple sub-branches. Each chapter needed a website to establish credibility and represent the parent organization’s brand guidelines. In this case, the ICC had over 400 sub-organizations, many of which had existing websites that did not meet the quality standards of the parent organization. The solution had to be efficient, customizable, and maintainable over time. That’s where KWSM came into the picture, offering a sophisticated WordPress multisite solution designed to meet the ICC’s needs.
In this case study, we’ll explore how KWSM collaborated with the ICC to build modern, user-centric websites for each chapter in an affordable and manageable way. We’ll review the process and highlight the benefits and features that made our solution stand out.
The Problem: Creating Manageable Websites For Hundreds of Sub-Organizations
For the ICC, maintaining a uniform yet personalized digital presence across over 400 chapters was a daunting task. Each chapter required a website reflecting a unique identity while adhering to the ICC’s brand guidelines. The primary goals were to enhance user experience, bolster credibility, and streamline website management.
Many chapters were facing issues with outdated websites or a lack of an online presence. The challenge was creating a scalable solution that would allow each chapter to have an updated, functional site without the logistical nightmare of managing each site separately.
Related Article: Why is Website Maintenance Important
The Solution: Utilizing A WordPress Multisite Platform for Sub-Organizations
We proposed a WordPress multisite solution that addressed the ICC’s needs. This approach allowed for creation of a central network of websites, each meeting the specific requirements of local chapters while maintaining a cohesive look and feel across all of the sites.
Key Features of the New Chapter Websites
Personalized Domains and Branding:
Each chapter retains a unique domain name, establishing an individual identity while adequately representing the ICC’s brand guidelines. Chapters could customize their sites with their specific logos, brand colors, and relevant information.
Standardized Information and Customizable Sections:
For parts of the sites that shared unique chapter details, there were customizable fields that could be updated to display relevant info. When this information wasn’t available or relevant, the fields would display standardized ICC information.
Security and Maintenance:
Each site featured an SSL certificate for secure browsing. KWSM takes care of monthly backups and security updates, making sure that the websites remain protected and up-to-date.
Added Functionalities:
Each website would include several advanced features, such as:
The Step-By-Step Process
Step 1: Initial Submission
Chapters begin by filling out the Code Council Website Submission Form. This form collects essential information needed to build the site.
Step 2: Information Gathering
A KWSM team member contacts the chapter to gather detailed information. This step ensures that all specific needs and preferences are understood.
Step 3: Site Development
Once the necessary information is collected, KWSM begins the development process. Each site is crafted to meet the chapter’s unique needs while adhering to the ICC’s branding guidelines.
Step 4: Launch
Development typically takes about a week. Once the site is ready, it is launched, and the chapter contact receives an email notification.
Step 5: Review Period
The chapter contact has two business days to review the site and request any changes. This step ensures that the final product meets all expectations.
Step 6: Final Instructions
After the review period, the chapter contact receives login information and instructions for managing the events calendar, blog, and other site features.
Step 7: Ongoing Support
KWSM continues to support the chapter by running monthly backups and security updates. The team is also available to answer any ongoing questions or provide assistance if needed.
The Results: Cost-Effective Website Management for ICC Chapters
The implementation of the WordPress multisite platform has significantly improved the digital presence of ICC Chapters. Each site now has a user-friendly website that has a modern design, unified brand identity, and customizable features.
This approach is more cost-effective than creating and managing individual websites for each chapter, and it’s scalable as more chapters are added. Using one WordPress Multisite hub, all sub-sites can be managed in one spot, no matter how many organizations sign up.
Here are some quotes from ICC chapter leaders regarding their experience working with KWSM.
“I have been working with KWSM for the last year as the point person for our local chapter of the Building Officials Association of Florida. All of the team has been spectacular in building us a modern website and keeping it updated. They have also created digital flyers with QR codes for ease of use and other technical assistance. I definitely recommend this brilliant and creative team for your marketing and digital needs.”
– Joey Rodriguez, Secretary, Central Florida Chapter of the ICC
“The whole team is very responsive, caring, and knowledgeable! Matt Enser explains everything and makes the processes easy to understand.”
– Jennifer Lang, Treasurer, Building Officials Association of Palm Beach County ICC Chapter
“VERY helpful. Quick to respond to emails and help with getting postings up quickly! Same day quick! Great to work with!”
– David Byl, Metropolitan Kansas City Chapter of the ICC
Work With KWSM For A WordPress Multisite Solution
The versatility of this WordPress Multisite platform for sub-organizations makes it ideal for any business that has numerous sub-brands or locations, from real estate agencies needing individual sites for each agent to any large organization seeking a cohesive yet customizable digital catalog.
If you want to streamline your organization’s website management, consider the impact it will have on your business for KWSM to set up a WordPress Multisite solution. Contact KWSM today for a free website management consultation and discover how easy and cost-effective multisite website management can be.
