War Memorials Online

User Generated Database of War Memorials throughout the UK

With the centenary of World War I approaching, an increased focus is being placed on the restoration and repair of war memorials across the United Kingdom in readiness for the anniversary in 2014.

In preparation for this milestone, War Memorials Trust and English Heritage engaged Totally to build an online platform, War Memorials Online, that helps plan for the future conservation of local and community monuments and create a better understanding and awareness of the condition of war memorials in the UK.

Project Highlights

– Discovery & UX
– User Interface Design
– WordPress CMS
– User Generated Content
– Google Maps & Geo Tagging
– Database Integration & Workflow

Insight

The initial focus of the War Memorials Online project was to be on location, images and gathering a snapshot of the current condition of war memorials throughout the country. Consequently, the web build and design needed to be visually driven, easily allowing the contribution and presentation of rich, visual content by users.  

It was also a requirement on the client to build War Memorials Online in the content management system Drupal, a task we happily delivered.

Solution

Employing a simple user-friendly and accessible design, War Memorials Online allows users to browse the current records of war memorials and upload their own content, including photos and condition reports, to help create a complete picture of all war memorials across the country. If they cannot find a record or memorial, users can add details themselves via the site. This ensures at risk memorials can be found before it is too late and appropriate restoration plans can be implemented.

A mobile web app has also been released. Currently undergoing final updates, it allows the public to search and submit war memorial sites on their mobile devices while on the go.