The document discusses VML's experience using Drupal as a content management system. Some key points:
- VML was initially approached by Cartoon Network EMEA to redesign 11 of their European sites using a new CMS, and recommended Drupal due to its flexibility and ability to support multimedia.
- Drupal allowed Cartoon Network to have locally customized sites that shared common elements and integrated video/games/ads.
- VML leveraged the success of this project by applying the same Drupal-powered approach to other clients seeking flexible, reusable solutions.
- Beyond traditional websites, VML uses Drupal's capabilities for managing content on non-Drupal sites and developing Facebook applications.
3. At a very high level we are looking for the following in a CMS Can’t limit Creative Must Support key elements of 'enterprise’ architecture Must be easy to use for us and clients Must be easy to customize and extend Must be easy to reuse work Must be able to integrate and support our client’s larger marketing ecosystem Must have support outside of us We felt Drupal was a good fit against these criteria and we had two projects where we got to try it out…
5. In mid 2008 we were approached by the Cartoon Network in EMEA to do full siteredesigns and implement an new CMS platform to power 11 of their European sites. They needed a system to support multiple sites in multiple languages but that shared common elements very flexible design on a per page basis that could be easily updated easy to use for non-technical staff integration with video services, games and ads the ability to create a community for the users Based on the success of the Pets.com community and the creative freedom and video integration from Manga.com we recommended the Cartoon Network use Drupal as the basis for their new platform.
17. VML redesigned the existing Cartoon Network website adding MyCN, a social networking element for kids. Members create a personalized account, add favorite videos and games, send MyCN friends messages, earn activity coins, and store trophies won by playing site games. The experience is optimized through safeguards. Kids join MyCN through a print-off parental approval form or email. Friends are added by e-mail or a printed form, members are unsearchable and photos are not used as avatars. Kids choose a favorite Cartoon Network character to represent them in MyCN reflecting the fun, creativity and excitement of the Cartoon Network experience.
18. Case Study – Cartoon Network EMEA Redesign Site is designed for each show to have their own theme or inherit from the the core site theme. This approach has allowed the local countries to provide local agencies/freelance talent an easy framework to provide ‘seasonal and promotional’ designs throughout the year.
19. Case Study – Cartoon Network EMEA Redesign We set up the main flash navigation element at the top of the page to be fully editable to allow them to add easily add new shows or update one of these three elements
20. Leveraging the approach and success of the Cartoon Network, we strived to make ALL content and functionality manageable through the platform. Here are some examples of how that got carried forward HNTB Collective Brands Constellation Brands Kansas City Art Institute Gavilon
34. Why limit our reuse of this functionality to Drupal sites. Here are some examples where we leverage Drupal beyond traditional site management. vml.com - Managing content in a non-Drupal site LG Fame Us – Managing content and functionality in a non-Drupal site WIP - Video Solution Provides integration with CDN/Streaming Server WIP - Administration for content in Facebook Applications
38. LG Fame Us LG mobile division created a contest and sweepstakes giving away $50,000 cash, free phones and loads of prizes to anyone willing to submit their reenactment of the Fame theme song or, (for the more camera-shy) those willing to judge other contestants on their Submission. The end result was a true-to-life web experience that the NY office is proud to confirm captures the look, feel, and sounds of New York City while authentically integrating the celebrity characters our youth audience wants to engage with. To support this initiative we implemented the following, contest submissions including video upload contest workflow including acceptance, rejection based on age and getting parent approval if necessary User promotion of their submission through a variety of social channels Email notification and moderation tools for site administrators Populate flash video player with all approved submissions, along with all metadata to determine sort options voting on submissions
42. Innovate on the front AND back end of your site: Drupal as an agency friendly marketing platform Based on it’s flexibility and the ease of reuse Drupal is becoming pervasive throughout our organization. We continue to add clients to our list of Drupal users We power over a dozen internal sites using Drupal All of our pro-bono site work is now done in Drupal Our agency within an agency, Version, that focuses on SMB has made the switch to being a Drupal shop We continue to leverage functionality from all of these engagements and use it on others. We continue to package what’s universal and contribute it back
43. Efficiency starts with a commitment to always try to Manage all content through the platform Use the platform to implement or integrate functionality Repeat Questions?
44. The Drupal Difference When deadlines are tight, client expectations are high and creativity is key, VML relies on Drupal, a content management system that offers the flexibility to customize without sacrificing performance. Whether we’re building a Facebook application, a brochure-ware website or a highly interactive financial tool, our clients require the ability to modify their products as the needs of their businesses and their customers change. Because VML nurtures an environment where designers and programmers collaborate, we invest in a tool that continually improves organically — the same way we evolve to meet the needs of our clients. VML’s Drupal Practice, The Best Practice VML’s Technology department boasts a broad range of talents. And with Drupal, we’re able to develop a mature practice, utilizing custom modules and packaged solutions that can be altered and enhanced with every new project. At VML, we strive to accommodate our clients’ every need and expectation, so we use Drupal’s extensive features — information, images, podcasts, blogs, video and more — to provide creative solutions quickly. Saving Time, Increasing Efficiency Using Drupal, VML has established a standard process — a “no limits” approach to creative design The Creative, User Experience, Account and Project Management and Technology teams work together in tight collaboration to deliver the best solution Results that take a long-term view of site maintenance—developing Drupal sites that are simple to manage VML + Drupal: A Winning Combination • With VML’s full-service digital agency capabilities and Drupal’s reputation as one of the best website frameworks available, we’re able to meet objectives for nearly any organizational structure • Drupal enables VML to provide innovative solutions without the constraints of other CMS platforms • VML uses Drupal to deliver superior solutions for a wide array of clients, providing efficiencies that can be shared across all projects