The Atlas of Canada Website Redesign

Natural Resources Canada

Timeline: 2022 - 2025
Role: Graphic Designer, Web/UX Designer, and Communications Co-lead
Tools: Illustrator · Photoshop · XD · RedMine · M365 · Trello

Overview

Originally published as print editions starting in 1906, the Atlas of Canada launched its first digital presence with the 6th edition in 1999, followed by several website iterations leading up to the 2020s. As part of the latest redesign team, I helped modernize its navigation, visual design, and content structure, continuing the Atlas's shift from print to digital while enhancing usability, accessibility, and preserving its historic identity.

Problem

The previous Atlas website had an outdated layout, limited accessibility compliance, and lacked visual identity. Users struggled to find information efficiently, and the site no longer met evolving federal identity and accessibility standards.

Process and Outcome

I collaborated with UX, content, and development teams to enhance the Atlas's structure, presentation, and launch strategy.

• Information Architecture: Supported content audits and the reorganization of the site structure to improve relevance and create a more intuitive navigation experience.
• Visual Design: Created a custom homepage banner illustrating the Atlas's evolution from 1906 to today, and contributed to the refinement of the content hierarchy to strengthen clarity and focus.
• Identity and Accessibility: Ensured alignment with the Federal Identity Program, the Canada.ca Content Style Guide, and W3C accessibility standards (WCAG 2.2).
• Campaign Launch: Planned and executed a strategic communications campaign for the site's public launch, creating promotional materials such as social media posts, product articles, newsletter features, and a pop-up display for conferences and events.

The redesigned Atlas of Canada launched with:

• A streamlined, accessible user experience
• Consistent visual identity aligned with federal identity standards
• Increased visibility and engagement through coordinated launch materials

Reflection

This project strengthened my ability to collaborate across multi-disciplinary teams and design for both users and stakeholders. It also taught me how design can modernize legacy products while preserving their historical character.