mgn 
About German School Tokyo Yokohama
A German school located in Yokohama, offering a curriculum based on the German education system. They ensure students can receive the same high standard of education as they would in schools across Germany.
Project Overview
When the client contacted us, they had a simple design that represented an International school but with a lack of freedom for editing, a difficult to manage and update system and the language button was not very functional for users. As a result, mgn recommended using block theme with WordPress to fit their needs.
Our goals for this renewal:
- Friendly & Modern design
- Functional system
- Reliable security
- Easy to navigate and manage
Our first step was to gather and categorize the site contents and reorganize the structure so that every important information is within reach for visitors. After that, we communicated back and forth with the client about the overall content and design to ensure that all the parts that needed to be on the site were updated and finalized.
Using block editor and block theme
To increase the freedom of editing and managing the site, we adopted a block theme.
To make it easy to follow and understand, we created a manual and guided the client through the process along the way, allowing them to get used to block editor by themselves.
Modern design
Based on the client request, we redesigned the website to have a friendly, but modern look. Using their existing theme colors and creating a site that is user friendly, modern and dynamic.
Language translation
Since the previous site’s translation function did not work well and the client has a specific image in mind, we decided to implement an auto and manual translation function. This allows the client to manually input translations to pages as they’d like, while leaving other untranslated pages to be auto-translated.
Client Interview
Background
The most important reason for our website renewal were security issues with the previous system. We wanted a safer system for our website. In addition, we also wanted to provide visitors with a good impression so we were hoping to create more of a modern look and a clearer overview of our school and make the site more user-friendly.
We actually faced challenges finding a company that could manage the project in English. Fortunately, we were introduced to mgn by someone we know and were glad to find a company that met our needs and expectations!
Expectations and Result
Our primary goal was to create a website that is easier to manage and update, ensuring it stays current with the latest security standards. At the same time, we wanted to give the site a modern design with a good user experience.
Yes, we are very happy with the result! We understand that our request for a mix of manual and automated content was challenging, but we truly appreciate having this feature. It provides our non-native speakers with a better understanding of our school without the need to manually translate every single page. Also, the security issue has been solved and the site is safely up to date. In terms of managing the content within WordPress system, it is easier to handle compared to before. So, definitely it is a huge improvement.
Project flow & Working with mgn
It has been very smooth. Though we didn’t have much knowledge on the web and the production itself, mgn took the lead and guided us to what data and information was needed at each stage, ensuring everything ran smoothly and the project could be launched on time.
Since the base of our website was in German, we found a great solution that allowed us to update the pages content while the site was still under development. We really appreciated the ability to make minor changes ourselves and reach out for help when needed. This approach helped us to get familiar with the new site system (WordPress) before its launch and reduced the double work by updating directly in the system.
It was also useful for us to provide written notes and data like spreadsheets, charts, and folders to keep track and organize the project flow. We could use the meeting notes to discuss further with our team internally about the project progress.
mgn always listened to our requests carefully. Often, they proposed different approaches and would allow us to compare and choose the approach that would best fit our needs, such as dark mode colors and automated language switcher, etc. They were always clear and honest about the pros and cons of each solution, and what can be done considering our requests, and because of that we could decide the best solution for our site.
In addition, we feel that being able to communicate with the designer directly to discuss our needs and wants was an important part in reducing the miscommunication. We could fully convey our image to the designer and made sure we are both on the same page.
Satisfaction and Areas to improve
Overall, there was no issue. However, if we could improve one thing, maybe it would be nice to have more details and break down the steps toward the launching timing, and whether it is necessary for certain members to be available (from our side). Since we were asked to change the domain settings and was fortunate enough to reach an available person from our side, but if it was to be arranged in advance, it would be safer.
Cost, Service and Support
mgn proposal was very reasonable. While we received other offers in the same price range, mgn took the time to ask for more details to fully understand our expectations and technical requirements. The project was successfully completed within the proposed budget!
We believe the cost and the final result were well-balanced and the standards were high. We are confident that choosing mgn was the best decision we could have made.
Consult with us in English!
We’re open to foreign work in or outside Japan
- We focus on communications and working together with you to create a website that fulfill your needs.
- Don’t hesitate to reach out! We are open to discuss your requests and any questions regarding your website.