Common Threads:
End-to-End Brand &
Digital Experience
Client: Common Threads Consultancy
Role: UX/UI Designer, Strategist, Developer
Timeline: 1 week
Tools: Figma, AI-assisted development, VS Code, Git, Adobe CC
Project Overview
Common Threads is a specialized accessibility consulting firm helping state and local governments meet the 2026 ADA Title II requirements. I created the complete brand identity and tone of voice, designed and developed the website, and developed the service packaging strategy—delivering a comprehensive digital presence that makes complex compliance requirements accessible and actionable while serving as a working example of accessible design.
The Challenge
With the 2026 ADA deadline approaching, government agencies face penalties up to $75,000 per violation for non-compliant websites. The client needed:
A scalable business model serving rural municipalities to state-level projects
Clear communication of urgent compliance requirements
Trust-building with government decision-makers
A website demonstrating accessibility best practices
Brand & Visual Identity
Logo Design The logo creates a sophisticated visual metaphor combining community and craft themes. The circular grid simultaneously represents a city map (emphasizing community and local government focus) and cross-stitch threads (connecting to the brand name). The ‘pin’ element functions as both a location pin on the map and a sewing needle—reinforcing the dual themes of place-based community service and weaving together common solutions. This layered symbolism builds trust with government professionals while creating memorable brand recognition.
Design Strategy Warm peach-to-coral gradients differentiate from typical corporate blue in government consulting, creating an approachable yet professional presence. Typography pairing (MADE Tommy Soft + Quicksand) balances personality with professionalism and exceptional readability across devices.
Design-to-Code Implementation
As a designer who doesn't typically code, I used AI-assisted development to translate complex Figma designs into a fully functional, accessible website. This approach allowed me to:
Implement responsive layouts with CSS Grid and semantic HTML
Ensure WCAG 2.1 AA compliance at the code level
Create smooth interactions and performance-optimized experiences
Maintain design vision without technical compromise
This project demonstrates strategic use of emerging tools and continuous learning to deliver end-to-end solutions.
Content & Service Strategy
Developed a flexible service structure with 5 distinct packages that can work independently or together, each offering 3 size categories (small/medium/large organizations) to accommodate everything from rural municipalities to state-level projects.
The homepage architecture guides visitors from immediate urgency (2026 deadline) through key benefits (avoid fines, serve community, build capability) to a clear 5-step solution process, with project examples providing credibility before the final call-to-action. This approach positions Common Threads as the systematic, trustworthy implementation partner rather than just another consultant.
Impact
This project took Common Threads from concept to market-ready business, creating a complete brand identity and go-to-market strategy that positions the firm for the growing accessibility compliance market. The comprehensive brand and digital presence establishes credibility and differentiates the consultancy in a field typically dominated by sterile, corporate approaches.
Scalable service model serves diverse government needs
Approachable knowledge-sharing builds trust and demonstrates expertise
Warm, community-focused brand stands out from typical compliance-focused competitors
Accessible implementation serves as an example of best practices in action
