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Active Design, a UK-based manufacturer of specialist seating and postural support systems, needed a website that represented their clinical expertise and supported accessibility. Their previous site didn’t effectively engage their diverse audience — from clinicians and carers to end-users with varying abilities — or highlight their bespoke, UK-based manufacturing process. The project involved a new Private Pay website and building a comprehensive e-commerce Shopify website at shop.activedesign.co.uk
Our Approach
Discovery & Accessibility Audit
We worked closely with Active Design to understand user needs and performed an accessibility audit against WCAG best practices, identifying pain points such as navigation and form accessibility.
- Discovery & Planning: Workshops to define goals, audiences, and eCommerce requirements for a custom Shopify build.
- Accessibility & WCAG 2.2 Level AA Compliance: Implemented accessible navigation, form controls, semantic HTML, and inclusive UI patterns to meet WCAG 2.2 AA standards.
- Site Structure: Clear product categories, simple navigation, and a smooth checkout flow.
- User-Centered Design: High-contrast palette within brand guidleines, readable typography, and fully keyboard-accessible components.
- Performance: Optimised images, lightweight code, and fast load times using Shopify’s built-in performance tools.
- Testing: Cross-device, browser, and accessibility testing to ensure a seamless user experience.
The Outcome
- Better UX: Easier browsing, clearer product journeys, and improved conversions.
- Stronger Brand: Clean, modern visuals that reinforce trust and professionalism.
- Accessible & Compliant: Meets WCAG 2.2 Level AA standards, ensuring all users can navigate, shop, and complete actions with ease.
- CMS: Built on the Engine CMS enabling Active Design staff to update pages.
- Growth-Ready Shopify Store: Easy to update with new products, promotions, and content as the business evolves.
- Higher Trust: Mobile-friendly, fast, and accessible - boosting customer confidence and broadening reach.
Why Accessibility Matters
Accessibility isn’t just an add-on — it’s essential for Active Design’s users, who rely on accurate information for making important decisions about postural support. A digital experience that’s accessible:
- Empowers users of all abilities
- Supports clinical decision-making
- Makes it easier to request custom seating solutions
- Reflects Active Design’s inclusive mission
Looking Ahead
With accessibility at the core, Active Design is set for continued growth. The site supports targeted content for different user groups and allows for the launch of educational materials and expansion of their product range, all while maintaining accessibility standards.
If you have a project in mind, would like to discuss a brief or just get some initial advice, please get in touch on 01908 822800 sayhello@melonwebdesign.co.uk