Sunscreen? Check. Killer designs? We’ve got you covered.

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Hi Friend,

Got any cool summer plans? We’re getting prepped for our retreat in beautiful Rhode Island at Dot Think Design. We’ll be brainstorming new ideas, enjoying the views and eating oysters waterside. If you’re looking for a summer getaway too, check out one of the below getaways (the newest websites in our portfolio). Check them out!

Dive into your next summer read (beachside, in the hammock, or in air-conditioned comfort) by visiting Robin Nixon’s newly designed website and snagging an excerpt of her upcoming book.

And here’s a little something to warm your heart: you can help prevent summer slide in kids by donating to Domus Kids.

Want to come sit on my virtual porch? Book a convo with me to chat about your summer plans or brainstorm your next tech solution.

See you in the metaverse,
Corti Cooper
Principal & Creative Director
Dot Think Design

Our Summer Recs

 

Explore the Hamptons

A refreshed website draws users in to explore the luxury accommodations, first-class amenities, regionally inspired dining, world-class entertainment, and more offered by this iconic Hamptons getaway, Canoe Place Inn & Cottages.

EXPLORE CANOE PLACE

 


Iconic Destinations

With locations from Newport to the Berkshires, Main Street Hospitality draws on three generations of leadership to create magic at the intersection of culture and hospitality – charisma that’s captured in the elevated design and copy of this new site.

VISIT MAIN STREET

 

Where Art & History Converge

Porches Inn at Mass MoCA is the sanctuary for wayfaring tastemakers in the Northern Berkshires. With custom icons, lush imagery and invitational copy, this new website allows its unique presence to shine bright.

EXPLORE PORCHES

 

Your Summer Read

With a background in neuroscience and global literary fieldwork, Robin Nixon’s storytelling inspires fresh insights on how we all connect to forces larger than ourselves. Visit her new site to discover the next breakthrough voice in fiction.

MEET ROBIN NIXON

 

Help Prevent Summer Slide

Through love-infused programming, Domus helps young people in Stamford and beyond overcome obstacles to move toward a bright and stable future. This new site makes it easy to explore their mission.

EXPLORE DOMUS KIDS

Streamlining Simplicity: a B2B Portal that Empowers Major National Retailer

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In the grocery aisle of fierce competition, every shelf-inch and shopper’s gaze is a prize. Major national retailers know this well. To keep their weekly ad circulars laser-focused on shopper needs and brimming with irresistible offers, they rely on a savvy partner navigating the ever-evolving landscape of retail promotions.

But with mountains of orders and a symphony of digital elements, managing everything through emails and spreadsheets was starting to feel like juggling melons in a high-heeled sprint. Enter Dot Think Design, ready to step in and orchestrate a seamless solution.

From Chaos to Clarity: The B2B Portal Takes Flight

Our mission? To craft a B2B cloud-based platform that would streamline the ordering process. Think of it as a digital marketplace, a streamlined haven where grocery suppliers could log in, browse themed pages and ad slots, and effortlessly order the perfect promotional placements. But it wasn’t just about ease-of-use. We knew this portal needed to be a bridge of collaboration, fostering transparency and ensuring every ad aligned with the retailer’s high standards.

So, we built in a robust review system powered by Laravel, a secure and expressive PHP framework. This allowed the client to vet offers, suggest edits, and work hand-in-hand with suppliers to craft winning campaigns. The platform was hosted on a custom AWS solution, ensuring scalability and reliability to handle the influx of orders and data. And for seamless communication, we integrated SendGrid, a powerful email client, keeping everyone informed and on the same page.

The platform’s beauty isn’t limited to its technology. We involved all stakeholders, from the retailer to suppliers, in a rigorous testing process. Their feedback fueled Dot Think’s meticulous quality assurance, ensuring every button click and ad upload was smooth and bug-free.

The platform launched as a BETA, not a grand finale. We embraced a user-centered design-thinking approach, continuously gathering feedback, iterating on features, and testing new functionalities. This agile approach allows us to streamline the process even further, one step and one click at a time.

The Symphony of Simplicity Begins to Play

The result? A platform that sings. Suppliers can now browse opportunities, tailor their offerings, and submit proposals with a few clicks. Gone are the days of lost emails and tangled threads. The marketing partner has a clear view of everything, streamlining their review process and keeping their finger on the pulse of every campaign.

But the harmony extends beyond efficiency. The portal fosters collaboration, allowing brands and the retailer to work together to create ads that resonate with shoppers. It’s a win-win-win: suppliers get their products noticed, the retailer delivers irresistible value, and shoppers walk away with baskets full of satisfaction.

Beyond Efficiency, a Story of Trust and Growth

At Dot Think, we believe in design that not only solves problems but also builds relationships. This B2B portal isn’t just about streamlining orders; it’s about solidifying the trust and collaboration that fuel the marketing partner’s success. By making the process transparent and efficient, we’ve empowered all parties to focus on what truly matters: building compelling campaigns that bring value to everyone in the retailer’s ecosystem.

So, the next time you grab that perfectly timed coupon for your favorite cereal or marvel at a themed major national retailer’s ad page, remember: behind the scenes, a symphony of simplicity is playing, orchestrated by a B2B portal designed to empower, connect, and ultimately, bring a little more joy to every grocery aisle.

And that, at Dot Think, is a recipe for success we’re always happy to whip up.

Empowering Patients: Dot Think Design’s Partnership with the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance

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We’re incredibly proud of our five-year collaboration with the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance (MBCA). Together, we’ve worked hand in hand to support the crucial mission of raising awareness and providing support for those affected by metastatic breast cancer. From enhancing the Alliance’s social media presence to crafting impactful print materials, we’ve partnered to help amplify this collaborative organization’s voice and reach within the breast cancer community.

Introducing a New Website That Serves as a Support & Information Hub

The latest fruit of our partnership is the launch of a new Alliance website—an invaluable resource for individuals navigating the complexities of metastatic breast cancer. Designed to provide essential information and guidance, the website speaks to newly diagnosed patients, long-term survivors and MBC advocates alike.

One of the standout features of the website is the “Right Track” tool, which offers clear guidance and support to newly diagnosed patients, empowering them with the knowledge they need to navigate their journey with confidence.

Moreover, the website boasts a comprehensive library of resources compiled from over 150 alliance members. From informative articles to personal stories of resilience, this repository serves as a beacon of support for individuals seeking information and connection.

The Membership Portal: Fostering Collaboration and Community

Central to the website is the membership portal—a dynamic space where all members can access personalized resources and connect with fellow advocates. Within the portal, members can find internal meeting notes, action items and a dedicated calendar of events, facilitating seamless collaboration and communication.

Championing Diversity and Anti-Racism

At MBCA, diversity and inclusion are not just words but guiding principles. Recognizing the importance of representation, the website design was meticulously crafted to ensure visibility for Black and Brown women, who are disproportionately affected by metastatic breast cancer. Through initiatives like BECOME and Black Women Speak, MBCA continues to lead the charge in advocating for diversity and dismantling systemic barriers within the breast cancer community.

Join Us in Making a Difference

In partnership with Dot Think Design, the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance has launched a groundbreaking website dedicated to empowering and supporting individuals affected by metastatic breast cancer. We invite you to explore the website, engage with its resources and join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those impacted by this disease. Together, we can drive positive change and foster a community of support and advocacy.

Learn more at mbcalliance.org.

Unleashing Potential: How We Helped the Werth Center Empower Housatonic Students

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At Dot Think Design, we’re passionate about igniting innovation. Recently, we had the privilege of collaborating with the Werth Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Housatonic Community College (HCC). Our mission? To create a dynamic brand identity and marketing campaign that would inspire HCC’s talented student body, particularly Gen Z, to explore their entrepreneurial spirit.

Building a Brand for Bold Dreamers

The first step was crafting a brand that resonated with HCC’s diverse student population. We knew the ideal client was a motivated, 21+ year old with a vision for their future. They weren’t afraid to break the mold and craved the tools to launch their ideas.

To reflect this idea, we designed a logo that embodies the act of starting a business; a person in a circle, literally launching upward! This dynamic image perfectly captures the essence of the Werth Center’s mission – propelling students toward entrepreneurial success. The color palette for the brand is professional yet approachable, using clean lines and a mix of bold and bright colors that convey the excitement of starting a new venture alongside the reliable support offered by the Center.

“Unlimited Possibilities”: A Campaign to Spark Action

Next, we focused on crafting a campaign strategy dubbed “Unlimited Possibilities.” This message resonated with Gen Z’s desire to break free from limitations and forge their own paths.

The campaign featured powerful headlines like “Generational Wealth is a Vibe” and “I am Unlimited Possibilities.” These statements were paired with captivating images of young, hopeful HCC students, further emphasizing the idea that anyone can achieve success with the right support.

Spreading the Word Across Campus

To ensure maximum reach, we developed a multi-pronged marketing strategy. Eye-catching window signage, posters, and pop-up graphics were strategically placed across campus, grabbing student attention in high-traffic areas like the cafeteria and the Werth Center itself. We partnered with Dave Stowe at AlphaGraphics Stamford for the production and installation of signage, posters and graphics.

We also created branded swag, including t-shirts and stickers, to generate excitement and encourage students to become walking advertisements for the Werth Center.

The campaign wasn’t just about visuals. We also developed a fun and informative quiz that helped students discover their entrepreneurial spirit. This interactive element not only engaged students but also provided valuable insights for the Werth Center.

The Werth Center: Your Launchpad to Success

The Werth Center is a one-stop shop for aspiring student entrepreneurs. From brainstorming workshops to personalized coaching, the Center equips students with the tools and resources they need to develop their ideas, launch businesses, and secure funding.

HCC’s students are brimming with potential.  They just need the right support system.  The Werth Center bridges the gap, providing the guidance, network, and resources that can take a student’s dream from concept to reality.

Are You Ready to Unleash Your Potential?

If you’re a student at Housatonic Community College with a burning entrepreneurial spirit, the Werth Center is here for you. Visit their website or stop by the Center to learn more about their services and how they can help you turn your vision into a thriving business. Remember, you have “Unlimited Possibilities” – and the Werth Center is there to help you achieve them!

From Hidden Gem to Berkshires Beacon: Unleashing the Magic of The Porches Inn

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Deep in the Berkshires, where whispers of wind rustle through ancient trees and art pulses in the very air, lies a treasure waiting to be unveiled. The Porches Inn, steeped in history and nestled alongside the acclaimed MASS MoCA, has been a haven for souls seeking solace and creativity for more than two decades. But just like any diamond in the rough, it can take a little expert polishing to make a gem truly shine.

That’s where Dot Think Design came in.

Following guideposts mapped in our signature Brand Discovery 2.0, we embarked on a journey to capture the essence of The Porches Inn and weave it into a digital tapestry that meshed seamlessly with its breathtaking backdrop.

Step one was crafting a user experience that evoked the Inn’s own welcoming ambience. With every click and scroll, viewers can lose themselves in a curated collection of distinctive moments – from sun-drenched breakfasts on a private porch to the captivation of a tour of the MASS MoCA’s modern masterpieces.

Then came the words: not just copy, but storytelling that brought to life the crackling fireplaces, cozy corners, and gentle hum of artistic energy that defines a stay at Porches. From the pleasure of feeling the heated slate beneath your feet at Porches’ all-season pool to the reverence evoked by following age-old footsteps through primeval forest paths, the Northern Berkshires was brought to life through vibrant and evocative language.

But because a beautiful website is just the canvas, we didn’t stop there. Business goals were woven into the very fabric of the site, ensuring that users were strategically engaged from first click to return visit. Booking tools were seamlessly integrated across the site, transforming browsing into effortless reservation-making. Exclusive packages – once hidden gems themselves – were elevated to center stage, showcasing curated experiences that invite users to not just stay, but connect and savor.

The result? A website that transcends mere digital brochure, and becomes a portal to a world of artistic immersion and Berkshire bliss. It’s a love letter to The Porches Inn that beckons travelers to step through its door and paint their own masterpiece.

Our work for Porches is a testament to our core belief that design isn’t just pixels on a screen. It’s a story told, an invitation extended, a promise made and kept. We didn’t just build a website; we built a bridge that connects hearts to the soul of the Berkshires, one click at a time.

Discover one-of-a-kind adventure at The Porches Inn at MASS MoCA.

From Awareness to Action: How Dot Think Design Amplified the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s Voice

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The fight against inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a relentless one. This rare and aggressive form of the disease often masquerades as an infection, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer prognoses. Raising awareness and accelerating research are critical weapons in this battle, and the Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Foundation (IBCRF) is on the frontlines.

That’s where Dot Think Design came in. We were called upon to reimagine the IBCRF’s digital presence, crafting a website that wouldn’t just inform, but ignite action. This wasn’t just another website build; it was an opportunity to amplify the voices of patients, researchers, and advocates.

Brand Discovery 2.0: Unearthing the IBCRF’s Core Identity

Before diving into design and development, we embarked on our signature Brand Discovery 2.0 process. This wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about uncovering the IBCRF’s soul. We delved into their mission, values, and target audiences, conducting interviews with stakeholders and analyzing competitor landscapes.

What emerged was a powerful narrative: a fierce determination to conquer IBC, fueled by unwavering compassion and a vibrant community. This became the guiding star for everything that followed.

User Experience: Designed for Empathy and Empowerment

We knew the IBCRF website needed to be more than just an information portal. It had to be a space for connection, a platform to empower patients, and a launchpad for research breakthroughs.

Our user experience (UX) design focused on clear navigation, intuitive information architecture, and accessibility. We weaved in storytelling elements – patient testimonials, research updates, and calls to action – to create an emotionally resonant experience.

A WordPress Website Built for Growth and Impact

Dot Think’s WordPress expertise ensured the IBCRF website was not only beautiful and functional, but also scalable and sustainable. We equipped them with the tools to easily update content, manage user engagement, and track website analytics.

The result? A website that speaks volumes. Bold yet approachable, informative yet inspiring, the IBCRF’s new digital home reflects the strength and resilience of the community it serves.

More Than Just a Website, a Movement

This project wasn’t just about pixels and code; it was about human connection and collective action. We’re proud to have partnered with the IBCRF to create a website that amplifies their message, empowers their community, and ultimately, helps win the fight against IBC.

Visit the IBCRF website and see for yourself how design can ignite change. And if you’re looking to amplify your own organization’s voice, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dot Think Design. We’re here to help you tell your story and make a difference.

Together, let’s turn awareness into action, one website, one story, one life at a time.

Breast Cancer Research Study Receives A Digital Upgrade

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Dot Think collaborated with Aurora US in building a trusted website with an informative presence. Investing careful attention to the design, image strategy, tone and voice, we were happy to provide a serious brand upgrade.

Aurora US is a clinical study, not a treatment trial, that will collect biospecimens from patient volunteers who have received a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer after having been treated for early stage breast cancer.

Our team produced a series of videos featuring patient advocates, researchers and industry leaders to tell the story of Aurora and get the message out why it is so important. In addition, the team wrote copy, developed a new logo, and designed, developed and launched their new site with easy-to-navigate features, setting them apart as a leading research study backed by top scientists and institutions.

Connecting users to the inspired spaces and programs of Mill River Park

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We have been partnering with Mill River Park Collaborative to audit their experience and brand, elevate their online presence and deliver a diverse set of content to their varied users. As part of the discovery process, Dot Think conducted an in-depth data analysis of their previous site’s traffic, behavior, geo-locations, usage statistics and more. The research resulted in a newly built site with a mobile-first approach. The site drives users to easy to use calendar and program pages so that local residents could find their events and activities and get to the park!

As a resource for the community to connect to nature, the mobile homepage is designed to be dynamic and easily changed by the staff so that seasonal offerings can be highlighted. Users are focused on three paths: visiting the park, understanding its mission as a collaborative, and contributing to its future.

The website also features a robust party and event planning section designed to inform customers of packages and options available as well as facilitate conversion through custom-designed conditional forms.

The result of our collaboration with the dedicated Mill River Park team? The seamless integration of technology and inspired action that betters the community.

VISIT THE SITE

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Mill River Park

Mill River Park Collaborative is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to creating and sustaining a world-class park in the heart of Downtown Stamford. Through the support of private donors, members and the City of Stamford, the Collaborative guides the long-term development of Mill River Park as a vibrant, evolving greenspace where the community can gather to relax, play, learn and connect with nature.

Dot Think Design

As a woman-owned & operated agency based in Fairfield County, Connecticut, Dot Think Design serves businesses and nonprofit organizations across the US with branding and marketing strategy, print and web design, social media and email campaigns. Clients include Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the Town of Groton, Vita Design and more.

User experience design & development to bring folks together for a brighter tomorrow.

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Dot Think Design has partnered with Fairfield County Community Foundation to redesign its website page-by-page. With WordPress at the helm, Dot Think interwove the best of technology, design and strategically-managed content to deliver a homepage that seamlessly highlights the organization.

With the mission of bringing people and resources together to solve our region’s challenges through innovative and collaborative solutions, the homepage prioritizes content in a way that invites passionate people to contribute.

From top-to-bottom, the design features FCCF’s mission, scopes the depth of the organization’s work, spotlights what’s new and summons individuals, families, corporations and companies in the area to make a difference.  The page closes with the blog, offering viewers the opportunity to explore FCCF’s impact and directly donate.

True to industry standards, the new page design is user-responsive and adapts to FCCF’s audience, comprised of 65% desktop, 30% mobile, and 5% tablet interfaces.

The result? An upgraded homepage with accessible function and composition, driven by the goal to inspire action and help people thrive.

Together, we can close the opportunity gap in Fairfield County by eliminating disparities in income, education, employment, housing and health.

Visit the site.

3 Reasons you need to update your WordPress Site Regularly

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WordPress Updates and your maintenance plan

So you’ve launched a new and beautiful WordPress site – congratulations! Before you mentally file your project as “complete,” make sure you have a clear plan for the next phase for your site: maintenance.

In addition to content management, often done in-house, your maintenance plan should include updating to the latest version of WordPress on a regular basis. Sure, that “Update” button is temptingly easy to click. But most organizations find that it’s best to outsource this task to professionals, and here’s why.

A team with technical expertise can back up your site and database prior to updating, a restoration measure recommended by WordPress. They can also quickly repair any functionality or formatting that might break – a scenario that’s more likely to happen the longer you wait to update. That translates into maximum odds of keeping your site live and serving your clients.

So, if your website still looks great on the front end and seems to be working just fine, is it worth investing in regular professional updates? The answer is an emphatic YES – and here are three reasons why.

1. Security

Updating your site is the best way to ensure security against hacking and malicious viruses. As an open source platform, the code used to build your WordPress site is available for others to learn and grow from. And that’s awesome! But on the other side of the coin, if hackers find a line of code susceptible to attack, this could be exploited. The best way to guard against attacks: updates. Updating WordPress means staying one step ahead of the hackers, identifying risks and responding efficiently while making things better.

2. Speed

Speed can make or break the user experience of your website (not to mention your SEO). It’s 2017 and any speed less than optimal is frustrating for visitors. What is an easy way to prevent slow loading content? If you guessed updates, you’re right!

3.  Staying bug-free

Updates are like little evolutions of your WordPress site; the bugs creeping around the older versions are configured out. This makes the experience better for the users visiting your site – and for your site developers. If you don’t regularly update your site, simple changes to your site could be a challenge and force your developer to do a major upgrade which carries risks of breaking the site. Think of them like regular visits to your doctor: to ensure the continued health of your site, keep up to date with the latest versions of WordPress and any plugins that you may utilize.

Keep your site healthy, relevant and up to date with Dot Think. We offer tiered levels of hosting and security.

 

 

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Dot Think Design is a woman-owned & operated agency based in Fairfield County, CT that serves nonprofit and for-profit organizations across the US with branding and marketing strategy, print and web design, social media and email campaigns, technology solutions and development.

LEARN MORE ABOUT US