Local governments across the nation are modernizing their digital presence, and for good reason. A city or county website is often the first interaction citizens have with their local government. It needs to be more than just visually appealing—it must be accessible, secure, and functional.
At Northpoint Web, we've built websites for cities and government agencies across the country. We understand the unique challenges and requirements of the public sector. If you're searching for a team that truly knows how to build government websites, here's what you need to know.
Why Government Websites Are Different
A government website isn't like a typical business site. It serves a diverse population with varying needs and must meet strict legal and technical standards. Here are some of the key requirements that set government web projects apart:
- Accessibility is Non-Negotiable: Government sites must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA. This ensures all citizens, including those with disabilities, can access information and services.
- Security and Compliance: Handling sensitive citizen data and maintaining public trust requires robust security protocols and compliance with state and federal regulations.
- User-Centric Design: Residents need to find information quickly. This means building intuitive navigation from the citizen's perspective, not just organizing by department.
- Integration and Functionality: Modern government sites often need to integrate with third-party systems for GIS mapping, permit applications, service requests, and more.
- Content Management: Staff need a user-friendly content management system (CMS) so they can easily update information without needing a developer.
What to Look for in a Government Web Design Partner
Finding the right partner for a government website project requires looking beyond just design aesthetics. Consider these essential criteria:
1. Experience with the Public Sector
Look for a team that has a proven track record with cities, counties, or other government entities. They should understand the RFP process, the budget constraints, and the unique stakeholder dynamics of public projects. For example, companies like Revize, which has won awards for its work with cities including St. George, Utah, showcase the level of recognition that comes with deep government experience. A firm with public sector experience will be prepared to guide you through the entire process.
2. A Focus on Accessibility and Compliance
Inquire specifically about their process for ensuring WCAG 2.1 AA compliance. Do they conduct regular accessibility audits? Do they build compliance into every stage of development? A firm that treats accessibility as a core feature, not an afterthought, is essential to avoid legal risk and serve your community equitably.
3. A Strong Partnership Model
Government projects are long-term relationships. Your chosen vendor should be a true partner, not just a contractor. The selection process for the City of Maize in Kansas highlighted the value of responsive customer support, transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and a commitment to keeping the website modern and functional for years. The city ultimately selected a partner who emphasized that they would "know us by name" and offer dedicated support.
4. Comprehensive Services
A full-service partner can handle everything from design and development to hosting, maintenance, and training. This simplifies the project and ensures accountability. They should also be able to help with content strategy and cleanup—Arlington, Texas, saw a 52% reduction in webpages after a successful redesign, making information much easier to find.
Northpoint Web: Your Government Website Partner
At Northpoint Web, we are the Government Website Experts. We have the experience and the dedication to help your city or agency build a powerful, accessible, and secure online presence. We work with clients nationwide, bringing the same commitment to every project.
We understand the importance of:
- ADA & WCAG Compliance
- Modern, User-Friendly Design
- Security and Data Protection
- Responsive Customer Support
- Transparent and Reasonable Pricing
Ready to Modernize Your Government Website?
Don't settle for a website that doesn't serve your citizens effectively. Partner with a team that has the specialized knowledge to get it right.
- Contact us today to discuss your project.
- Explore our Services to see how we can help your agency.
- Visit our Homepage to learn more about our commitment to quality and community.