NWMO
A complete redesign spanning strategy, design, and Sitecore XM implementation for a high-stakes communications platform.
The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) is a not-for-profit organization responsible for the safe, long-term management of Canada's used nuclear fuel. As key project milestones continued to draw greater public and industry attention, NWMO anticipated a steady increase in web traffic. The existing technical infrastructure was no longer capable of supporting its growing audience, which includes industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, government officials, technical experts, and the general public.
Full
Discovery to launch
Sitecore XM
Platform
4
System integrations
Managed
Post-launch services
Challenge
NWMO faced two interconnected challenges. First, its existing infrastructure could not support the anticipated increase in traffic or meet the diverse technical needs of its audience. Second, the organization needed a platform capable of engaging and influencing public perception and regulatory stakeholders at a critical moment in its mandate: not just a functional website, but a strategic communications tool.
Approach
Discovery
TechGuilds conducted collaborative sessions with NWMO stakeholders to understand strategic objectives, pain points, and success metrics. Multiple technical architectures were evaluated with an emphasis on flexibility, modularity, and integration with existing systems. The decision: build on Sitecore XM, integrated with Dynamics CRM, SharePoint, Coveo, and Azure Bot Services.
Definition
TechGuilds led a structured definition phase covering persona development, user journey mapping, content strategy, and user story creation. Rigorous data collection informed detailed personas representing NWMO's diverse audience, from nuclear sector scientists and government stakeholders to Indigenous community members and concerned residents. A thorough content audit combined with a SWOT analysis informed site navigation, information architecture, and a streamlined migration plan. TechGuilds also developed a comprehensive writer's guide for the NWMO team post-launch.
Design and development
The UI/UX team led multiple collaborative sessions with stakeholders to define user experience strategies and translate requirements into wireframes and mockups. Using Figma as the primary design tool, the team ensured pixel-perfect execution aligned with approved concepts. Development involved cross-functional teams of developers, testers, and project managers working in close coordination with NWMO, delivering a solution built on Sitecore XM with all four integrations live at launch.
Results
A modernized, high-performing digital platform capable of managing increased traffic and complex content needs.
Improved usability and content delivery: the site now effectively informs, engages, and influences key audiences at a pivotal moment in the organization's mandate.
Following launch, the engagement transitioned into a managed services arrangement focused on continuous enhancements, proactive maintenance, and ongoing technical support.