Since 1999 —

Partnering with great organizations.

For over 20 years, Lowthian Design has been helping nonprofits and cause-based organizations with their websites and other tech needs.

The honest problem —

Why website management is tough for small nonprofits

If you’re a small nonprofit, managing your website can feel like a big headache. Usually, it ends up falling to one person—someone who already has a full plate and may not have a tech background. They jump in with the best intentions, learning the ins and outs of web updates, troubleshooting issues, and navigating jargon.

But when that person moves on or gets busier, the website often gets stuck in time, becoming tough to update and, over time, harder to use. What starts as a helpful tool for your mission can end up feeling like a burden.

Where we come in —

How Lowthian Design makes things easier

That’s where we come in. For over two decades, we’ve been helping nonprofits take the frustration out of website management. We make sure your website isn’t just sitting there looking pretty; it works smoothly and stays up-to-date, no matter who’s at the helm.

When you work with Lowthian Design, you don’t just get a website—you get support that grows with you. We’ll take the weight off your shoulders, keeping things simple and easy to manage, and we’re here to help you with ongoing support and training to keep everything running smoothly.

The point of all this —

Making your website work for your mission

With Lowthian Design, your website won’t just be an online presence; it’ll be a real part of your mission. Together, we’ll create a site that fits your organization’s personality and values—something that helps you make a difference instead of holding you back.

Let’s make your website an asset that works for you every step of the way.

Petrena Lowthian, Geoffrey's mother and founder of Lowthian College, photographed in Minneapolis circa 1985.

Petrena Lowthian, founder of Lowthian College · Minneapolis, c. 1985

A design inheritance —

The Lowthian name carries a design heritage from my mother’s side of the family.

My mother, Petrena Lowthian, honored this legacy by founding Lowthian College in Minneapolis, now part of the Art Institutes International Minnesota. This design tradition runs even deeper—my great-grandfather was a renowned fashion designer and tailor, creating exquisite pieces for the English royal family.

“Bash on regardless” was my mother’s favorite expression. She believed in putting people first and making help affordable, trusting that if you helped enough others, your own needs would be met. That outlook stays with me: keep showing up, work through the difficulties, and find a way to help.

People may doubt what you say, but they will believe what you do.
— Lewis Cass
how we work —

Methodology

Seven steps, one real partnership. No surprises, no “tada” reveals—just steady collaboration from first conversation through every year after launch.

  1. Review Current Web Presence

    Let’s make your website work for you and your visitors. I’ll assess your current site, understand your audience’s needs, and create a user-friendly design that makes finding what they’re looking for a breeze. In today’s fast-paced digital world, you can’t afford to lose visitors to a cluttered or slow site.

    Some things we’ll analyze:

    • Navigation: Quick and easy access to the information your visitors want
    • Responsiveness: A seamless experience across all devices, from desktops to smartphones
    • Mechanics: Essential features like forms, donations, and other components to meet your organization’s needs
    • Speed: Faster load times for a better user experience and improved search engine rankings
    • And anything else that can enhance your visitor’s experience and support for your organization

  2. Review Design

    Let’s work together to assess the visual identity of your current website (if you have one) and ensure it accurately reflects your brand and personality. I’ll ask for your favorite website examples and review both the strengths and weaknesses of your current site, as well as those of other sites, to come up with the best design for you. Don’t forget to gather feedback from others, like your board, clients, supporters, or customers, to gauge their perspectives on your site.

  3. Create a Plan

    We’ll lay out the plan of action together, with me as your partner. I don’t go the traditional route of presenting you with an expensive new website and hoping you like it. Instead, we’ll work hand-in-hand, and I’ll show you how to add new content while I revamp the design. I’ll create a test site, transfer any essential content, and collaborate with you on design and navigation until you’re 100% satisfied. Then, we’ll activate the changes on the live site.

  4. Construction

    I’ll start by taking your current site and any favorite sites or ideas you have as a foundation for the construction process. I’ll be guided by your vision and direction throughout the project. Instead of just building and hoping you like the outcome, I’ll work closely with you, checking in at every step to make sure it’s aligned with your vision. The clearer your direction, the smoother and quicker the process will be.

  5. Client Empowerment

    My aim is to empower you to confidently manage and update your website with ease. I’ll be there to provide technical support and keep your site safe and secure. I will offer ongoing training to help you grow your skills and take full control of your site. Don’t worry if you’re new to website editing; I’ll work at your pace and handle any one-time technical tasks so you can focus on keeping your site fresh and current.

  6. Maintenance

    I’ve got your site covered with all the necessary maintenance tasks, including security updates, backups, and platform upgrades. Plus, I’m always on the lookout for ways to improve your site with the latest technology.

    My maintenance package includes:

    • Daily site backups for peace of mind, and quick access when needed
    • One-month backup storage for added security
    • Regular plugin and platform updates for optimal performance
    • Advanced firewall and security measures to keep your site safe from potential threats
    • 24/7 site uptime monitoring for seamless website availability

  7. Peace of Mind

    As your trusted web technology partner, I’ve got you covered. Leave the technicalities to me and focus on creating impactful content for your site. If you encounter any issues, simply reach out, and I’ll have it fixed promptly or provide you with an update within 24 hours. Don’t waste time searching for answers—I’m here to provide the support you need.

    From site maintenance to content updates, my goal is to empower you with the skills and confidence to take control of your website. Count on me for ongoing support and training.

I don't want to be a leader. I want to be one who goes around with a little oil can and offer help when I see a breakdown. The mechanic with the oilcan, that is my ideal in life.
— Baba Amte

Three ways to take the next step

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