A Virtual Library of tools for trained teachers
summer 2019
Challenge:
This professional development organization needed a members-only digital library to house 300+ valued resources for educators and administrators around the world. The system had to be intuitive, searchable, and well-structured (categorized and alphabetical), while working within a new and unfamiliar website membership platform. Additional constraints included: supporting multiple file types (video, image, downloadable assets), improving mobile accessibility beyond static PDFs, and delivering a solution quickly after a gap in member access due to the newly developed website.
AN AFFORDABLE, USER-CENTERED RESOURCE SYSTEM
Solution:
Rather than pursuing a time-intensive custom app or a minimal list of links, I designed a dynamic, database-driven library within WordPress.
I created a custom content system using such plugins as Post Tables Pro, Pods, and Custom Taxonomy Order to build a fully searchable, filterable interface with category and subcategory navigation. I integrated tiered access controls via WooCommerce Memberships for paid and specialized users and designed a brand designed a branded, user-friendly interface with:
Embedded search functionality
Dropdown filters for intuitive browsing
Expandable category descriptions
Quick-start guidance (how-to content including icon key + instructional pop-ups)
To populate the system, I created and structured 300+ categorized resource entries; standardized metadata, labeling, and icon systems for clarity; developed mobile-friendly resource pages for select materials; and implemented graduated access levels for specialized coaching content.
The result was a centralized, scalable, and significantly more usable resource experience for members.
To support adoption and increase perceived value, I developed on-boarding and promotional materials to introduce the library to both new and prospective members. This included instructional guides, slide presentations, and a walk-through video demonstrating account access and navigation.
Because the library is members-only and login-restricted, I prioritized clarity and ease of entry, ensuring users could quickly understand how to access and use the resource. I also contributed to positioning the library as a core membership benefit, strengthening its role in membership growth and retention.
Reflections:
With additional time and budget, I would expand this system into a more interactive and personalized user experience, including saved resources, more complex user dashboards that allow members to connect with each other, and I would enhanced mobile optimization. I would also explore analytics integration to better understand how members engage with content and then further refine the system over time.
Reminder: The Coaches’ Protocol Library is exclusive for paid members.
BONUS: extended design & infrastructure
Beyond the user-centered, online, resource library, I also developed related promotional and operational design elements supporting internal teams and connecting to external audiences. I designed and distributed marketing newsletters via BigMailer (AWS) and informational flyers, promoting trainings and sharing published content. I developed concise, visual guides to improve accessibility and audience engagement as well as usability and ongoing revisions to be made by fellow team members. For our contracted facilitator team, I created internal resource hubs, including unique libraries within both the website and Google Workspace and supported training logistics through streamlined prep and follow-up systems, ensuring facilitators had clear access to materials and expected processes. I also designed and built a website for the companion nonprofit division, Harmony School, incorporating my own original photography.
Harmony School Website
