The context

Relief Applications partnered with The Open Notebook (TON) to design and build an interactive learning hub that helps journalists integrate scientific concepts into everyday reporting with accuracy and confidence. Embedded within TON’s existing WordPress site, the Navigator brings together structured lessons, guided learning paths, interactive assessments and a searchable science lexicon to support fast, deadline-driven use.

TON’s existing resources—articles, guides and tools—were valuable but dispersed across the site, making it harder for busy reporters to find, sequence and apply what they needed on the spot. The organization wanted a cohesive “learning hub” that preserved editorial rigor, improved mobile usability and offered a clear pathway from concept to practice.

Our approach

First, we mapped the information architecture and prototyped in Figma a dual-entry experience—Learning Paths for guided sequences and Lessons for targeted skills—using concise sectioning and quick in-page navigation to reduce scrolling. Clear calls-to-action and micro-interactions keep lessons practical and engaging for newsroom realities.

We then implemented a custom LMS architecture within WordPress (Elementor), complemented by select custom plugins to power learning paths, inline definitions (hover-to-define tooltips) and Google Docs embeds. H5P components provide quizzes and game-style checks with immediate feedback. A global, searchable lexicon and a tag-based resource library (templates, checklists) give reporters rapid access to terminology and reusable assets without breaking reading flow.

Finally, we optimised performance, accessibility and SEO, ensured full responsiveness, and produced onboarding materials so TON’s team can independently manage content updates and new lesson releases.

Live site: