The New England Aquarium (NEAq) is one of Boston’s most visited cultural attractions, drawing over a million visitors each year. The Aquarium is also home to the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life (ACCOL), a nonprofit organization dedicated to marine conservation and ocean research.  

Previously, NEAq and ACCOL maintained two separate websites—one focused on visitor-facing aspects like ticketing and events, and the other on research and policy related to ocean conservation. This division led to a disconnect, with many visitors unaware of the Aquarium’s vital conservation work or how they could contribute to these efforts.  

To bridge this gap, NEAq sought a unified digital experience to seamlessly connect visitors with the conservation issues at the heart of the organization. Phases collaborated with Blue State, a WPP agency specializing in nonprofit work, to develop the new site using WordPress.  

Phases implemented a flexible, component-based system that enables NEAq’s content editors to easily update the site without relying on developer support—ensuring that the site can evolve with the Aquarium’s ongoing programs and initiatives. We also ensured the design met high accessibility standards, crucial for public institutions, and optimized the site for mobile users, given that over 70% of site traffic comes from smartphones.  

The project also required a flawless transition, as the website is integral to NEAq’s daily operations, including ticket sales, event management, and visitor engagement. Phases executed the migration with precision, ensuring no disruption to site functionality or business operations.  

This case highlights Phases’ ability to deliver innovative, user-centric digital solutions that support both the operational and mission-driven goals of world-class institutions. The new website empowers NEAq to engage a wider audience and drive support for its crucial ocean conservation work.

Technologies

 

 

Backend
Tools & APIs