A modular design system built on deep user research, balancing complex institutional workflows across a unified network of interconnected websites.


We oversaw the complete digital transformation of the University of San Marino, managing the entire project lifecycle from initial user research to final deployment. Rather than a single website, the project involved designing and developing a complex ecosystem of interconnected websites. By handling information architecture, a custom design system, UX/UI design, and full-stack development, we ensured seamless integration across platforms, translating strategic academic needs into a unified, high-performing digital experience.


A modular design system built on deep user research, balancing complex institutional workflows across a unified network of interconnected websites.








Before diving into interface design, we analyzed the university's pre-existing visual identity, adapting and extending it for multi-channel digital environments. This crucial phase involved redefining typography scales, optimizing color palettes for screen readability, and executing a subtle yet impactful restyling of the institutional brand. The result is a modernized visual language that respects tradition while thriving on modern digital screens.
Following an extensive user research phase, we completely redesigned the platform's architecture. Beyond restructuring the information hierarchy and sitemap, we mapped out internal workflows and governance for the university’s various departments. This strategic intervention eliminated operational bottlenecks and resolved content update stalls, ensuring a smooth, decentralized management flow for the institution’s staff.
















The user interface was built on a robust modular design system, ensuring maximum flexibility for content creators alongside a strict mobile-first approach. Every component adapts flawlessly to varying screen sizes and devices. Furthermore, inclusion was a core pillar of our design process: the entire system was architected from the ground up to achieve and maintain the highest possible level of compliance with WCAG accessibility standards.




This project was a major orchestration effort for the San Marino university ecosystem. The platform serves as a massive public information hub, but it is also a vital internal tool used daily by faculty and staff. Managing this duality required precise technical coordination, balancing development sprints with stakeholder feedback to successfully orchestrate the secure rollout and release of the new digital platform.




A project of this scale demanded a complex data migration process to safely transfer years of legacy content. We used this transition as an opportunity to audit, clean, and update existing texts across all departments. Additionally, our team coordinated the localization and translation workflows, establishing a seamless multilingual infrastructure capable of serving an increasingly international academic community.
The same core design system was tailored and adapted for the Design courses website, striking the perfect balance between institutional unity and distinct disciplinary identity.
Supervision
Gianni Sinni
Design system, Web design and development
Davide Giorgetta
Project manager
Anna Viola Selva
IT infrastructure
Luca Volpinari
Editorial Coordination & Visual Content
Benedetta Simoncelli
Sara Raschi