Creating a framework, not a template.
Rather than designing and building individual websites in isolation, we developed a shared platform that could be adopted across the organisation.
The foundation was a modular WordPress theme built around a defined design system. A library of reusable components, page structures and content patterns established consistency while still allowing individual businesses to communicate their own services and expertise.
The platform was designed with practical adoption in mind.
A streamlined administration experience enables internal teams to manage content confidently, while a standardised architecture ensures that new websites can be deployed quickly and efficiently.
Where possible, we reduced platform complexity by limiting reliance on third-party plugins, creating a more secure, stable and maintainable solution over the long term.
Accessibility formed part of the design process from day one, with every component developed and validated against AA standards.
The result is a centralised WordPress platform that transforms how websites are delivered across the business.
Instead of commissioning separate builds for each new requirement, divisions can now launch websites from an established framework that has already been tested, governed and refined.
This creates a more efficient delivery model, reducing duplication while ensuring a consistent experience across all digital touchpoints.
The platform balances flexibility and control, allowing teams to manage their own content while maintaining the standards expected of the Balfour Beatty brand.
The framework has become the foundation for a growing number of websites across Balfour Beatty’s divisions and joint ventures.
Projects delivered through the platform include:
Each website is tailored to its audience and objectives, yet all benefit from the same underlying framework, governance model and design principles.
The result is a more cohesive digital ecosystem that supports broader branding, communications and stakeholder engagement activity across the organisation.
The introduction of a shared platform has significantly improved the efficiency and consistency of digital delivery.
Benefits include:
Most importantly, Balfour Beatty has moved from managing a collection of independent websites to operating a scalable digital platform, providing the structure needed to support future growth.
A platform of this scale requires more than an initial implementation.
As new divisions adopt the framework and operational requirements evolve, additional integrations, enhancements and functionality inevitably emerge.
To support this, we provide managed hosting and ongoing technical support.
The hosting environment is designed to deliver consistent performance, availability and security across the entire platform, supported by proactive monitoring and maintenance.
Alongside this, a retained support model enables continuous improvement. New capabilities, refinements and development requirements can be delivered incrementally, allowing the platform to evolve without disruptive redevelopment programmes.
This ensures the framework remains aligned with the business’s needs, providing a long-term foundation rather than a point-in-time solution.