Technaflora Redesign

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Our prime objective was to build the image and the supporting applications indicative of the actual size and prestige Technaflora has already maintained through the delivery of great products, the building of community, and the international supply and support of their global retailers. Technaflora’s vision was to compliment this image with a sufficiently impressive web presence.

Custom applications and tools were requested to support their growing community of specialty plant growers, enthusiasts, retailers, wholesalers, and experts. Initial planning concluded the appropriate development of an online forum, a content management system, a complex international online and offline retailer directory and management system, nutrient level calculator tool, user driven file sharing system, Flash designs, embedded 3D art, data entry support, photography, and much more.

“Technaflora had a vision of something very high-end and graphically impressive. I recall conversations describing the sheer prestige that Technaflora wanted translated into an explosive yet professional image that would irrevocably raise the bar in the industry.” – Gino Pugliese – Director of Business Development.

With countless product retailers operating both online and traditional store fronts throughout Canada and the US, the site was to become a portal directory for locating retailers. As this is no simple task, the mission seemed complex, but Actuent approached the challenge head on.

Aligned with the vision, Actuent begins both designing the image of an industry leader, and programming the systems that will support the endeavor. Many different layouts and designs were created and rejected before final the approval of both Technaflora and Actuent design team’s expectations. 3D art was integrated into the layout and infused into Flash animation to create an inspiring and dynamic presentation not unlike the award winning trade show booths Technaflora is famous for.

“The challenge was conceiving a design that was professional, yet really cool and engaging. At the same time, I understood that Technaflora wanted something that would ‘wow’ both competitors and customers alike.” – Harry Ma, Director of Creative Development.

Actuent’s design team noted that the entire line of products needed to be displayed on the site. They responded with an entire visual catalogue of professionally photographed images of their entire product line. Stock images were also taken onsite at their offices and production and warehousing locations.

Concurrently, web site framework was being designed and developed. A robust site framework would give the necessary structure holding the retail management system, content management system, forum, and site functionality.

“The importance of the site framework can’t be overstated. It’s like building the frame of a car. The frame holds everything together and allows internal components to interact with each other.” – Wesley Friend, Director of Technical Development.

The framework was to hold the important site components. Giving Technaflora staff the ability to change page content live and in real-time on the site involved building a customized content management system. Specific areas were identified and the details of control were implemented.

Building the retailer directory management system had its own set of challenges. Information had to be displayed in an organized manner and intuitive information architecture was a priority. The system was designed and built to display all online and brick and mortar retailers for a specified area, driven by user selection. The system was smart enough to find retailers in adjacent and neighboring areas relative to the currently displayed selection. This powerful tool also allowed Technaflora staff to add, remove, and update retailer information in real time with changes showing up in the listings instantly.

“The retailer application is a great example of Actuent’s insight into intuitive system design. We build systems with user experience in mind. Put simply, we wouldn’t design a system that we wouldn’t want to use ourselves.” – Roley Chiu, Director of Operations.

The file sharing tool gave Technaflora staff the ability to enter a password protected area to create, remove, and manage user accounts for the purpose of delivering affiliate marketing files and documentation to known clients. Actuent understood the need to make each system easy to use and easy on the eyes.

Actuent delivered the satisfying calm that only comes from knowing that your company has the professional image it deserves. From a functionally limited web site to a powerfully practical and graphically innovative business portal, Actuent's efforts dramatically augmented the company’s ability to drive business, build community, sell product, deliver information, and most importantly, accurately maintain the reputation of an industry leader.

Technaflora Plant Products Ltd. is a proudly Canadian-owned and operated company based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Technaflora boasts a catalogue of outstanding plant nutrients and additives. Unique items such as Awesome Blossoms™, Rootech Cloning Gel™, Thrive Alive™, and B.C. Hydroponic Nutrients™ confirm the company’s leadership in the specialty gardening market. With retailers effectively in every US state and Canadian province, Technaflora is well on its way to becoming a house hold brand.

“ Technaflora Plant Products is an imaginative and dynamic organization with a full line of consistent and superlative products backed by outstanding customer service.” – Technaflora Staff