The Challenge
The John Howard Society Ontario's Prison Visitation Guide was a critical resource for families navigating the complex prison visitation system, but it existed only as a static PDF document. This format created significant barriers to accessing vital information.
Key challenges included:
- Users couldn't easily search for specific facilities or information within the PDF
- Navigation was cumbersome, especially on mobile devices
- The static format made updates time-consuming and distribution difficult
- Accessibility requirements weren't adequately met for users with disabilities
- Complex institutional information needed to be presented in an intuitive, user-friendly way
Our Approach
Working in partnership with GOCACTUS Design Inc., we reimagined the Prison Visitation Guide as a modern web application. The focus was on creating a platform that would not only serve users better but also empower the John Howard Society team to maintain and update content independently.
Custom Data Modeling
Developed a tailored data structure aligned with JHSO's organizational needs and the unique requirements of prison visitation information.
Block-Based Architecture
Built custom WordPress block plugins leveraging the modern block editor, providing flexible content management while maintaining consistency.
Empowered Content Management
Created a tailored CMS interface that gives JHSO complete editorial control, enabling them to maintain and update the platform without ongoing technical dependency.
The Solution
We delivered a WordPress-powered web application that replaced the static PDF with a dynamic, searchable, and accessible platform. The solution balances powerful functionality with intuitive content management.
Searchable Interface
Powerful search functionality allows users to quickly find specific facilities, policies, or visitation information—a dramatic improvement over the static PDF format.
Responsive Design
Optimized experience across all devices—desktop, tablet, and mobile—ensuring families can access critical information wherever they are.
Custom WordPress Blocks
Purpose-built block plugins provide flexible content management while maintaining design consistency and data structure integrity throughout the application.
Improved Accessibility
Web-based format provides better support for screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other assistive technologies compared to PDF documents.
Intuitive Navigation
Structured content hierarchy and clear navigation patterns make complex institutional information easy to browse and understand.
Scalable Architecture
Platform designed to grow with JHSO's needs, supporting future expansion of content and features while maintaining performance and usability.
The Impact
The new web application significantly improved information access for both clients and service providers. Complex institutional content became intuitive and inclusive, while the John Howard Society retained complete editorial control over the platform's maintenance and updates.
By migrating from PDF to a modern web platform, the guide now serves users more effectively across all devices and accessibility needs. The custom CMS empowers JHSO staff to keep information current without requiring ongoing technical support.