Buck’s Best Dogs
a dog trainer’s website & brand development
overview
Graham’s dog training business has operated for years using minimal digital marketing, relying primarily on local print advertising and word-of-mouth recommendations. By developing a professional website, Graham hoped to…
solidify
his business’ credibility.
demonstrate
the high-caliber quality of his services.
position himself competitively
among other local training services.
research + methods
how do we go about creating graham’s website/bringing his vision to life?
To answer this, we first determined our research plan and the methods we would use to synthesize our findings.
key findings
conventions to incorporate
Based on our analysis of other dog trainers' websites, we identified the essential content that customers expect to see on Buck's Best Dogs' site. We also discovered relevant information architecture trends that we can implement to enhance our site's user experience.
deciding who we are not
Through competitor website evaluation, we discovered that some were either too exclusive and minimal or overwhelming and busy. However, some achieved a good balance of structure and content but lacked a personable touch. By recognizing what our brand is not compared to our competitors, we have gained clarity on the essential characteristics our brand should exhibit.
a stash of seasoned stories
Upon delving further into Graham's background, we discovered three captivating stories that not only reinforce his professional expertise but also his lifelong involvement in dog training and his ties to the local community.
design process
Using the insights from our research, we used the following design process
key features of our design solution
content strategy
With a targeted approach for each page/section, my content strategy utilized significant content and quotes from client-provided documents to create compelling storytelling infused with Graham's voice and background.
graham’s visual identity
Developed a cohesive visual identity and brand voice that reflects Graham's professionalism, calm demeanor, and connection to the beaches of eastern Long Island. This involved careful consideration of typography, color palette, imagery, and other design elements that establish a consistent and recognizable brand across all platforms. By creating a distinct visual identity, Graham stands out in a crowded marketplace and communicates his unique value proposition to potential clients.
a holistic picture
To provide a comprehensive understanding of Graham's personal and professional background, I delved into our interview transcripts and uncovered three fascinating stories that shed light on his journey. These stories together paint a holistic picture of Graham's lifelong passion for and expertise in the world of dogs.
Graham dedicated an impressive 31 years to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, where he specialized in training guide dogs and their visually impaired handlers.
a paternal pedigree
Graham's father, James Farrell Buck, was a trailblazing figure in the dog-walking industry, earning recognition from notable media outlets such as The David Letterman Show and Life magazine.
born & raised
Graham's childhood was steeped in dog breeding and training, as his father bred and showed Great Danes in their hometown of Southampton.
compelling client testimonials
We went beyond simple quotes to showcase Graham's exceptional services. Our approach included in-depth client stories, allowing them to share their experiences and highlight the quality and care Graham offers. The enthusiastic participation of clients in providing these testimonials adds credibility to Graham's image as a dedicated and talented trainer.