DEPARTMENT: Information Technology
FILE TYPE: Consent Action
TITLE
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Authorization To Execute Contract With Clockwork Active Media Systems, LLC For Discovery Work Prior To Implementation Of New County Public Website Platform
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PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Authorize the Deputy County Manager to execute a contract with Clockwork Active Media Systems, LLC (Clockwork) for strategic discovery work prior to implementing a new county public website platform.
SUMMARY
Implementation of a discovery phase is a critical early step in any large digital project, especially a website redesign with a platform change. The process focuses on gathering the information needed to make informed, strategic decisions before development begins. This includes understanding the needs of users, identifying technical and content-related challenges, aligning stakeholders on goals, and defining strategies for the new platform. By investing in discovery, Dakota County will reduce risk, avoid costly rework, and ensure the final product reflects the needs of our residents and staff who rely on it most. The insights gained will position Dakota County to deliver a more effective and sustainable digital experience.
The discovery process will span approximately three to four months and will include a wide range of activities, such as stakeholder mapping, user interviews, public surveys, usability testing, content and analytics audits, and internal alignment workshops. The vendor will also assess governance structures and lead change management discussions to prepare the County to adopt and maintain the new platform effectively. Early visual design concepts in the form of wireframes will be created to guide future design work and navigation prototypes will be tested with real users.
The project team has selected Clockwork as the preferred vendor to perform the discovery work. Clockwork, a local business in the Twin Cities, has demonstrated extensive local government experience in web services...
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