Could you describe the scope of the project? For instance, did it involve custom visual design, backend development, training, and support?
In the beginning Plethora Design was responsible only for our site maintenance, which involved data preparation and migration, and some information architecting. Once we were confident that they could do that work, we moved into a lot of backend improvements. Not only styling but also implementing CiviCRM in the backend, which is still very much an ongoing task. We did everything from database upgrades to integration with our other backend systems. I worked closely with them on that. I handled a lot of the set up of the database, but they definitely handled a lot of the technical challenges that came with the implementation process.
Could describe the in-house expertise that you contributed to the projects?
Our duties fell into a couple of areas. First of all, we were responsible for all of the content development that was to be integrated into the new site. With the implementation of CiviCRM, I was the one who installed it, imported all of our database records, and set up all the fields. Plethora was responsible for the backend development and systemwide enhancements. Their team handled the deep technical aspects of the implementation and Web design while we provided the strategic oversight and creative aspects.
Could you provide a sense of the size of this project in monetary terms?
In dollar terms, I probably couldn’t give you an accurate estimate. It’s been a while since I’ve looked at them. It must have been between $5,000 and $10,000.
When was the CRM implementation completed?
I had installed the CRM around March [2013], and it was live by June. However, as I’d mentioned before, we’re still in the process of rolling out functional enhancements.
The Plethora team’s redesigns of university sites contributed greatly towards efforts to meet enrollment goals, while their work on ensuring ADA compliance has been thorough and reliable. The team’s clear communication and broad expertise have been key to the partnership’s ongoing success.