University of Portsmouth

The ask

Due to the requirement for University of Portsmouth (UoP) to move away from Sitecore, this project began with an initial review of the existing technical infrastructure, mapping any risks and dependencies to be captured during the migration. 

This allowed our team to identify the most appropriate route forward in migrating to Drupal, taking advantage of automated content migration tools as well as considering manual migration where indicated.

The approach

AI-powered search

Algolia was the enterprise search tool of choice, as a cloud-based tool that offers a managed service this was preferred due to the powerful UI that facilitates the easy configuration of filters, facets, and live results in the search feature.

Personalisation

An options appraisal and evaluation of industry leading tools led to the selection of Acquia Personalise to drive the personalisation effort. This allows the University to substitute existing page elements with personalised content and target content to unique audience groups, as well as conduct A/B testing with distinct content experiences to different users, with no reliance on code beyond the initial set up.

Workflow management

Zoocha implemented custom workflows and permissions management for the University, ensuring administrators had full visibility over the version history of content and access is restricted to only users that require it. This has dramatically simplified the user experience for content editors that are only responsible for one area of the site, as well as ensured that administrators have the oversight that they need.

Microsite management

Using the Thunder Drupal distribution, Zoocha have provided the University with the ability to quickly spin-up new microsites that conform to UoP brand and accessibility guidelines. This is supported by robust documentation, providing maximum control and flexibility to the University in the management of their digital estate.

Agile delivery

Centralised agile project management has been key to the success of our partnership with UoP. With multiple agile work streams often running in parallel, regular check-ins with the Zoocha Delivery Manager and digital lead at the University to monitor each project and assess progress against core KPIs has resulted in effective timeline and budget management.

Since project inception, UoP have benefited from consistency in personnel, with the Technical Architect offering over 12 years’ experience in Drupal remaining a core contact from the offset.

This has allowed our team to make practical recommendations for improvement that stem from a deep understanding of the UoP platform and organisational objectives.
 

The results

Our partnership with the University has gone from strength to strength. We look forward to continuing to grow, optimise, and support the University's recruitment strategies through the digital front door. 

Visit website

www.port.ac.uk