services

Information Architecture

Each project begins with a thorough investigation to determine the needs of the targeted audience, the distinctive qualities of the organization, and the client's ultimate goal for its online presence. Our aim is to structure a website so that visitors are as few clicks as possible from the information they are seeking.

Design

Only once the client's goals and needs are fully determined and the architecture is finalized, does site design begin in earnest. kapow takes pride in delivering fresh, creative website solutions which enhance the client's traditional communication channels, contain engaging and relevant content, and provide a consistent and intuitive user experience. We take utmost care to ensure that pages relate to each other visually by use of similar language, layout, iconography, and clear, direct navigation.

We believe that excellent usability and website navigation are inherent to good design. For this reason there is an emphasis on consistency and intuitive organization with creative, visually stimulating approaches that do not sacrifice ease-of-use or functionality.

Front-end Programming

Our programming and coding always take into account potential future directions of the site. We utilize Cascading Style Sheets to ensure that any transitions to future designs can be conducted as smoothly as possible. When needed, we employ the latest technologies—such as AJAX (Asynchronous Javascript + XML)—when needed to provide responsive interactions for users who need information presented quickly and easily.

Content Management System Implementation & 3rd-Party Software Integration

kapow has experience implementing a number of content management systems including pre-packaged, open source and custom-built products. For each project, we find the best solution for the challenge posed by our client's needs, focusing on functionality, platform and hosting requirements, and value.

We work with high-quality contractors for technology implementation, manage all aspects of their work, and guarantee that their deliverables meet our expectations and those of the client. kapow collaborates with a number of different companies and independent contractors. Depending on the specific needs of the project, we choose the most appropriate contractor to develop and implement scripting, database, content management, e-commerce, and third party software integration.

bios

Ethan Goldstine - principal, producer

Ethan has worked as a producer in new media since the early days of the Internet's expansion. He was the original producer of the website for NPR station KCRW-FM. In 1997 he served as a consultant to America Online's Digital City. In 1996, he and Neal created KAPOW, one of the first episodic stories on the web. Ethan has also worked in computer consulting and training as well as in film production and development. He is a graduate of Yale University.

Megan Holbrook - principal, business development/producer

Megan Holbrook has been involved in the multimedia industry since 1993. Prior to kapow, she worked for CD-ROM games company Inscape and America Online's Digital City. She has produced projects for Microsoft, Warner Bros., and Disney. Megan serves on the executive committee of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and was recognized by Milwaukee Magazine and Milwaukee Business Journal as one of Milwaukee's emerging leaders. She is a graduate of Harvard University.

Neal Steinberg - principal, art director

Neal began his professional career in the advertising industry. Prior to kapow, he worked extensively as a producer and assistant director for Japanese television commercials. In 1996 he co-created, produced and designed KAPOW (the detective story). He is also an exhibited collage artist. Neal majored in Japanese Studies and Fine Arts at Princeton University.

Bryan Buchs - web developer

Bryan has more than 10 years of experience creating web sites and web-based applications. Having been involved in many different aspects of the design and development process, Bryan brings a unique perspective to each project. In his spare time, he enjoys cooking for his wife and golfing with his friends.

Cory Leistikow - designer, html/flash developer

Cory came to kapow in 2002 after 3 years of freelance print/web design, and database integration for companies such as USTrust and Pacific Bell. Cory graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Comparative Religion and Japanese Studies. He also teaches and studies classical Japanese martial arts.

Karen Briner - html coder, content editor, writer

Karen has been with kapow since 2006. She has a BA in English and Psychology from the University of Cape Town. She writes in her spare time and is a published author of a children's novel.