Case Study

Clallam County Public Utility District

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GO-Live Date

December 30, 2024

Trusted Web Experts

Charlie Stanley Web Solutions Architect
Caleigh Pickard Project Manager
Annie Watson Project Manager
Nikki Vanderkooi Content Strategy & Quality Assurance
Imelda Sotiri Design Strategy
Stacey Horton Layout Design
Tabi Kashif Content Integration
Boris Zarev Content Integration
Heather Clark Content Integration
Lydia Burris Footer Illustration
Mehran Aziz Web Developer
Katie Morman Content Visualization
Michael Confalone Training & Website Launch
Deanna Frimann Resource Allocation
Leanna Thesken Marketing & Case Study

Goals

Easy NavigationIncrease Use of Online ToolsIntuitive DesignModern & Forward-Thinking
Visit Clallam County Public Utility District

Overview

Modern Utility Services

Since 1940, Clallam County Public Utility District (Clallam PUD) has been committed to delivering reliable, efficient, and affordable utility services to its community. Serving over 30,000 electric customers and 4,500 water connections, Clallam PUD continues to focus on providing essential services in a financially and environmentally responsible manner. To align with their vision of being a modern, forward-thinking utility, Clallam PUD partnered with Powerful to redesign their website with these key goals: increasing the use of online tools, improving intuitive navigation, and showcasing a modern brand identity.

Transforming PDFs into Online Forms

One of the primary goals for Clallam PUD was to encourage customers to embrace online tools. A significant step in this transformation was converting traditional PDFs into visitor-friendly online forms. Previously, customers had to download forms, fill them out manually, and often make an in-office visit to complete the process. This created barriers to convenience and accessibility.

Powerful’s solution introduced sleek, accessible online forms that could be completed directly from the website. For instance, the Service Application form now allows customers to start a new service from the comfort of their own homes.

The shift to online forms creates a ripple effect of benefits. Customers no longer need to print or scan documents or visit offices to complete essential tasks. Everything from applying for service to submitting inquiries can now be done in minutes, enhancing accessibility and satisfaction. For administrators, the streamlined system improves internal operations and reduces manual workload. These advancements reflect Clallam PUD’s commitment to innovation while staying true to its core mission of serving the community.

Prioritizing Security with Premium Protection

The transition to online forms naturally raised concerns about protecting customers’ personal information. Some forms, like the Service Application, require sensitive data such as social security numbers or driver’s license information. Recognizing the importance of protecting this information, Clallam PUD opted for Powerful’s Premium Security package.

This advanced security solution includes encryption and secure data storage to safeguard personal identifiable information (PII). Customers can confidently submit forms, knowing their data is protected. For Clallam PUD, it ensures compliance with data protection standards and reinforces their dedication to secure, trustworthy service delivery. Powerful’s security measures also provide protection against potential threats, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. This extra layer of protection strengthens customer trust and supports the safe expansion of online services.

Challenges

Clallam PUD aimed to modernize its website to better reflect its forward-thinking approach while staying connected to the community it serves. A key challenge was creating a website design that authentically captured Clallam County's rich natural landscapes and cultural identity. They wanted a visual experience that was engaging and familiar to their customers while reinforcing their mission of providing reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible services.

Solutions

Powerful addressed this challenge by designing a custom illustrated footer that visually narrates the story of Clallam County. The design features iconic landmarks and landscapes that resonate with the community, including rugged coastlines, the lush Hoh Rainforest, the Olympic Mountains, and the historic New Dungeness Lighthouse. Local wildlife, such as elk, and recognizable symbols like the Sequim Granary tower and vibrant lavender fields, are thoughtfully integrated to reflect the area’s rich heritage. Adding a whimsical touch, the design even includes Sasquatch—a nod to local folklore—creating a visual story that feels both familiar and engaging to residents. To ensure a cohesive and modern look, the color scheme of the illustrated footer was carefully chosen to blend seamlessly with the overall website design. This intentional color integration allows the footer to feel like a natural extension of the site, guiding visitors through a consistent and engaging visitor experience.

Results

The custom illustrated footer has transformed Clallam PUD’s website into more than just a utility platform. It’s now a reflection of the community it serves. The familiar imagery and local landmarks create an immediate sense of belonging for visitors, fostering trust and pride in their local utility provider. The playful inclusion of Sasquatch adds a memorable and lighthearted element that makes the website feel warm and approachable. This design strengthens the bond between Clallam PUD and its customers by celebrating the unique character of Clallam County while reinforcing the utility’s commitment to serving its community with care and authenticity.

Working with Clallam PUD was an exciting opportunity to combine modern tools with local character. We wanted the website to feel like an extension of the community, not just a place to pay bills or submit forms. The custom illustrated footer is a perfect example. It tells a visual story of Clallam County that’s both inviting and memorable. It’s rewarding to see how design can make essential services feel more connected and accessible.

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Caleigh Pickard

Project Manager

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