Local entrepreneurs across Dundee often face an "administrative bottleneck." While global platforms exist, many Tayside SMEs either lack a web presence entirely or rely on outdated, non-modern websites that fail to engage users. The objective of this project is to bridge that digital divide, helping businesses across the city transition to a fully modern, professional platform that is easy to share and optimised to be found by local clients.
VA Dundee
01. The Problem
02. Market Research
Local Context
Identified a specific gap in the Dundee market for tech-enabled assistants who understand the 01382 business culture and the local startup landscape.
Comp. Analysis
National agencies lack a personal touch; local competitors often feature inaccessible web designs, failing modern WCAG legal standards.
Target Audience
Focussed on Abertay linked startups, Dundee or Broughty Ferry small businesses, and neurodivergent founders requiring structured executive support.
03. Design & Prototype
Modern Digital Standards: To help Dundee businesses stand out, I implemented features that ensure the site is both visible and shareable:
- • Search Visibility: Optimised metadata and semantic structure to ensure local businesses can be found easily on Google.
- • WCAG 2.1 AA Compliance: Prioritising accessibility so that no potential client in the community is marginalised by technical barriers.
- • Mobile-First Design: Ensuring the website looks polished and modern on any device, making it easy to share via social media or QR codes.
04. The Result
Compliance Level
WCAG 2.1 AA
Market Insight
Research into the Tayside digital economy suggests that modernised, accessible sites can improve local search visibility by up to 50% for SMEs currently relying on outdated "legacy" web pages.
05. Reflection
This project allowed me to harmonise technical web development with inclusive design principles, but more importantly, it allowed me to focus on the community I call home. Many businesses across Dundee, from independent shops in the Ferry to startups in the city centre, possess incredible potential that is often held back by a non-existent or "non-modern" digital presence.
My personal goal with VA Dundee was to demonstrate that professional, high-conversion websites shouldn't be exclusive to national corporations. By providing a blueprint for fully modern platforms that are easy to share and simple to find, I aim to help local Dundee businesses transition into the modern digital age, ensuring our local economy is as visible and accessible as possible.