Project: Weed Science Society of America (WSSA)
Role: Lead Information Architect & Web Developer Focus: Complex Data Organization, Scientific Resource Management, Educational Accessibility, Large-Scale Content Auditing
Project Overview The Weed Science Society of America is the preeminent global body for weed science research, but their digital presence was struggling to contain decades of scientific data. The project was less about “marketing” and more about digital librarianship—organizing hundreds of static pages, databases, and external links into a coherent resource. The goal was to build a structure that could house everything from molecular herbicide structures to legislative policy fact sheets without overwhelming the user.
Key Deliverables & Features
- Massive Information Architecture (IA) Strategy: Given the sheer volume of content, the project required an extensive “Research & Planning” phase before a single line of code was written.
- Taxonomy & Categorization: We audited and reorganized thousands of data points, creating a logical hierarchy that separates “Peer-Reviewed Journals” (for scientists) from “Weed Identification Tools” (for extension agents and the public).
- Composite List of Weeds: We developed a user-friendly interface for the Society’s massive database of over 3,700 unique plant species, allowing users to search by common name, Latin name, or Bayer code.
- Scientific Resource & Database Integration: The site acts as a portal to critical industry tools.
- Herbicide Mechanism of Action (MOA) Classifications: We built a structured section for the global herbicide classification system, including downloadable molecular structures and resistance management guides.
- Survey Archives: A dedicated archive was created for the “Common and Troublesome Weeds Survey,” organizing longitudinal data from 2015 to present so researchers can easily track weed migration and resistance trends over time.
- Educational & Policy Gating: The site serves two distinct masters: rigorous science and public policy.
- Fact Sheet Library: A clean, accessible layout was designed for “WSSA Fact Sheets,” ensuring that complex topics like “Label-Mandated Plant-Back Restrictions” are digestible for policymakers and media.
- Journal Access Pathways: We streamlined the pathways to the society’s key journals (Weed Science, Weed Technology), ensuring seamless access for members while clearly distinguishing open-access content for the general public.
- Annual Meeting Logistics:
- Conference Hub: The site serves as the central nervous system for the WSSA Annual Meeting, housing the complex “Call for Papers,” symposia schedules, and student contest information, all requiring frequent, time-sensitive updates.
The Outcome The WSSA website was transformed from a cluttered repository into a streamlined scientific tool. By prioritizing information architecture and logical navigation paths, the site now effectively serves its 2,000+ members while remaining an accessible authority for the public and government officials.
