Case Study
MIT MLK Scholars website redesign
The MIT MLK Scholars Program website redesign was rooted in real user needs and a desire to better reflect the program’s legacy of leadership, scholarship, and community impact. I led research planning, stakeholder interviews, and UX/UI design to transform a dated site into a functional, engaging experience that strengthens connections across the MIT community and beyond.
UX Research
UX Design
Web & Mobile Product UI Design
BACKGROUND
Honoring a Legacy: The Need for a Digital Transformation
The MIT MLK Scholars Program boasts a rich legacy of fostering leadership, scholarship, and community impact. However, its current website lacks the structure and storytelling capabilities needed to fully communicate the program’s ongoing influence and inspire engagement across diverse audiences. Our goal was to create a digital space that not only showcases the program’s achievements but also strengthens connections within and beyond the MIT community.
PROBLEM
Addressing Gaps in User Experience and Community Engagement
Through an initial audit, it became evident that the website was not effectively serving its users as both a functional and inspirational resource. Key challenges included the lack of storytelling around Scholars’ experiences, difficulty in locating specific program-related content, and the absence of clear pathways for engagement with prospective Scholars, faculty, and donors. A more human-centered and dynamic platform was needed to capture the program’s impact and legacy.
RESEARCH & IDEATION
Comprehensive Stakeholder Insights and Ideation Process
To gain a deeper understanding of user needs, we conducted five in-depth stakeholder interviews, each lasting 30-60 minutes. Insights revealed a strong desire for the website to highlight the program’s ability to foster meaningful connections within MIT and with external partners. The research emphasized the need for storytelling through dynamic content, intuitive Scholar profiles, and interactive elements that encourage broader engagement. Comparative analysis of similar programs further informed opportunities for improvement, such as streamlining navigation, enhancing accessibility, and ensuring up-to-date alumni showcases.
We proposed strategic solutions focused on human-centered storytelling and intuitive navigation, including sections dedicated to specific audiences and a streamlined resource hub.
RESULTS & TAKEAWAYS
A Human-Centered Approach to Redesign
The research and ideation process provided valuable insights into the emotional connection stakeholders have with the program. A key takeaway was the importance of designing with empathy—recognizing that the program holds personal significance for many and leveraging their emotional investment to inform design decisions. This experience reinforced the value of qualitative feedback in uncovering deeper user needs and shaping a website that truly reflects the program’s legacy and future aspirations.