The Asian American / Asian Research Institute (AAARI), of The City University of New York (CUNY), is seeking a qualified web development consultant or agency to redesign or enhance its website, aaari.info.
Depending on the assessment of the current AAARI website by potential consultant, the project will focus on either a full site redesign or targeted improvements to user experience, navigation, and overall site functionality. Key goals include developing a clearer information architecture, improving visual design and accessibility, reorganizing existing content, and ensuring the platform is easy for AAARI staff to maintain. The site must reflect AAARI’s expanding work in research, public programming, education, and community engagement while preserving access to its extensive archive.
Technical Scope & Requirements
- Platform: Built on WordPress, utilizing Bricks Builder and Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) for custom post types and flexible content management.
- Accessibility: Meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards.
- Content Migration & SEO: Reorganize, structure, and migrate historical archives while preserving existing URL structures/redirects. (All past content must be preserved.)
Qualifications
- Demonstrated experience building accessible, content-rich websites for nonprofit, higher education, research, or public-sector organizations.
- Ability to work collaboratively with AAARI staff (primarily Program Coordinator), gather stakeholder feedback, and translate a range of perspectives into a coherent and user-friendly website.
- Availability for occasional in-person meetings in New York City during the project (number to be determined, or proposed by consultant).
- Have a US tax ID number and able to register as a New York State vendor.
Submission Requirements
Interested consultants should submit the following:
- Brief statement of interest and proposed approach.
- Portfolio links to relevant work samples.
- Preliminary project timeline (absolute deadline is end of FY27) and itemized budget (amount to be proposed by consultant).
- Contact information for two professional references.
Submission Deadline
Questions and/or submission materials should be sent via email to info@aaari.info by Monday, August 17, 2026. (Extended Deadline)
