Why Research-Informed Design Matters for Nonprofits

Many nonprofits and mission-driven organizations invest significant resources into their digital presence, yet struggle to see the engagement and impact they hoped for. The missing ingredient? Research. At Makimiso, we've seen firsthand how combining rigorous social research with thoughtful design transforms outcomes. Here's why this approach matters. #### The Problem with Assumption-Based Design It's tempting to build websites and communications based on what we think our audience wants. But assumptions, even well-intentioned ones, often miss the mark. A beautiful website that doesn't speak to your community's actual needs is a missed opportunity. #### What Research-Informed Design Looks Like Research-informed design starts with listening. We engage directly with the communities you serve to understand their challenges, preferences, and how they actually interact with digital tools. This might include: - User interviews and focus groups - Analysis of existing engagement data - Accessibility assessments - Community feedback sessions #### The Impact When design decisions are grounded in evidence, everything changes. Messages resonate more deeply. Navigation becomes intuitive. Calls to action actually inspire action. Most importantly, the people you serve feel seen and understood. For organizations working on social impact, this isn't just about better metricsit's about building trust and creating genuine connection with the communities at the heart of your mission.