Build a Directory or Searchable Tool, Improve Internal Workflows

CICADA: Multilingual Member Directory

Client: CICADA (Centre for Indigenous Conservation and Development Alternatives) Year: 2024 Industry: academic, nonprofit, conservation

Built a highly dynamic, multilingual, filterable member directory for an international network, powered by spreadsheet-based sync.

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Project Overview

Developed a scalable, multilingual member directory system for CICADA's arts and research network, enabling decentralized updates and content syncing across English, French, and Spanish microsites.

The Challenge

  • Existing member listings were hard to update and navigate
  • CICADA needed a scalable frontend experience tied to their existing member data
  • Directory was not filterable or mobile friendly
  • Required multilingual publishing from a single source of truth (central spreadsheet)
  • Needed synced updates across three language-specific microsites

Our Approach & Key Contributions

Custom Member Directory Architecture

Created a directory using custom post types and ACF, with filterable fields for organization type, community role, and region.

WordPress DevelopmentInformation ArchitectureFrontend Design

→ Filterable, tag-driven directory UX

Multilingual Directory Sync Across Microsites

Implemented a multilingual publishing system that pushed member directory content to English, French, and Spanish microsites using webhook triggers and WP All Import Pro. All content was maintained from a single spreadsheet containing translations, enabling fully decentralized updates.

Webhook AutomationMultilingual CMS SyncSpreadsheet-to-CMS Integration

→ 3 microsites auto-synced from a centralized multilingual spreadsheet

Modular Template System for Future Scalability

Built the directory UI and backend in a modular format, making it easy to apply design upgrades or migrate platforms later.

Scalable DesignWordPress ArchitectureComponent Reuse

→ Future-proof and redesign-ready site components

Tools & Technologies

WordPressElementorACFGoogle SheetsWP All Import Prowebhook automation

Outcomes & Results

Delivered a highly dynamic, multilingual directory experience that allowed CICADA to manage global content from a single spreadsheet‚ saving time, reducing errors, and increasing accessibility and visibility in English, French, and Spanish-speaking communities.

Reduced staff time spent on updates and increased member discoverability.

Key Metrics

100+Members now browsable

Client Testimonial

"It was great to work with you, we're really happy with the directory you created."

— Aaron V, Project Manager, CICADA and McGill University

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