IBEW Local 1269
- Platform Selection
- Brand and Identity
- Creative Design
- Community
- Web Development
- Search Engine Optimization
Opportunity
The San Francisco-based International Brotherhood for Electric Workers (IBEW) Local 1269 saw that old, direct mail methods of information distribution were costly, slow, and failed to reach many of the younger or more digitally savvy members. IBEW Local 1269 needed to update member communication to faster, less expensive, digital distribution methods. They planned to accomplish this by updating their website, leveraging online surveys, actively communicating with email newsletters, and leveraging social networking tools. All communication had to be updated by busy union leaders that are commonly on the road in the midst of negotiations.
Solution
ThoughtMatrix created modern, youthful design while maintaining a grassroots union feel. Drupal was used as a low-cost, high functionality, integrated CMS and web application solution. ThoughtMatrix extended the Drupal installation with many third party modules and a custom theme. On the new site, members can quickly access information about current events, union leadership, local stewards, and even contribute their own pictures with a moderation queue. On the back end, the CMS was customized to make even the most complex features simple to manage by a small group of non-technical users. Constant Contact is used to maintain their contact list, and deliver custom branded newsletters and surveys.
Results
Two weeks after the site launched, surveys sent, and news articles Tweeted and posted to Facebook, the site exhibited a 1,400% increase in site traffic reported by Google Analytics. Union leadership on the road visiting local offices can easily communicate status updates through the website without having to constantly call for help. The site now archives news and information. The IBEW 1269 leadership team can quickly turn the results into action — always representing their members in the most informed way and maintaining their Code of Excellence: Courage, Strength, Honor, Trust, Truth, Integrity, Loyalty, and Respect.
