I’m looking for an experienced web designer to help me create a community-focused website and email newsletter platform inspired by the success of https://frontporchforum.com, but targeted at a different region. The goal is to build an interactive platform that connects local residents, fosters community engagement, and serves as a trusted source of local information, recommendations, and conversations.
Project Requirements
1. Website Design & Development: - Clean & User-Friendly Interface: Create an intuitive and visually appealing website with a focus on ease of use for local users. - Community Forums: Develop forums or message boards where users can post announcements, ask questions, and discuss local topics. - Search Functionality: Enable users to search for specific posts, local events, or businesses within the site. - Neighborhood Groups: Implement a system where users can join specific local groups (based on neighborhoods or interests). - Event Calendar: Add an easy-to-navigate calendar for local events, meetings, and activities. - Responsive Design: Ensure the website is fully responsive, providing a seamless experience across desktop, tablet, and mobile devices. - Local Business Directory: Include an option for local businesses to create profiles or ads to reach the community. - Privacy & Security: Strong privacy settings for users, with easy account management and moderation capabilities.
2. Email Newsletter: - Subscription-Based Model: Allow users to sign up for email newsletters based on location and interests. - Customizable Newsletters: Design a newsletter template that can be customized to highlight local news, events, and relevant community information. - Email List Management: Ensure a user-friendly backend system for managing subscriptions, segmented lists, and targeted email campaigns. - Integration: Ensure the email platform integrates with the website so that posts, events, and community discussions can be automatically incorporated into the newsletter.
3. Branding & Design: - Branding Creation: Help create a unique and appealing brand identity for the platform (logo, color scheme, typography). - Consistent Aesthetic: Design a cohesive look and feel for both the website and newsletter to ensure visual consistency.
Skills Needed
- Web design and development (preferably using platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, or custom HTML/CSS). - Experience creating community-based websites or social platforms. - Strong understanding of UX/UI design principles for local communities. - Knowledge of email marketing tools (Mailchimp, SendGrid, etc.) and integration. - Ability to design visually appealing and functional newsletters. - Attention to detail in terms of user privacy and data protection.
Additional Information
- The target audience will be residents of a specific region, so local focus is crucial. - The website will need to be scalable as the community grows, with features like paid subscriptions or premium listings possibly added later. - The aim is to replicate the success of Front Porch Forum in terms of fostering a vibrant, trusted, and engaged online community.
If you're a talented web designer with experience in community-driven projects, I would love to hear from you. Please submit your proposal with: Portfolio or links to similar projects. Overview of your approach to the project. Estimated timeline for completion. Your rate or pricing structure. Looking forward to working with you to create something truly special for the community!
