Programs

"Programs" include the various services and products that are offered at your community center. How your programs are structured and offered has a big impact on your User Experience.

On this page we'll explore strategies on how you can elevate the UX of your programs and create offerings that truly serve your community's needs.

How to Create Programs

Learn principles of UX design applied to program development for maximum impact.

Types of Programs

Explore different program formats and delivery methods that work for communities.

Creating Programs with UX in Mind

1. Understand Your Audience

Before creating any program, deeply understand who it's for and what they need:

  • What challenges are they facing?
  • What are their interests and passions?
  • What time commitments can they realistically make?
  • What barriers might prevent their participation?

2. Design for Accessibility

Make your programs accessible to the widest possible audience:

  • Offer programs at different times of day and days of the week
  • Consider physical accessibility of venues
  • Provide childcare when appropriate
  • Offer sliding scale pricing or scholarships
  • Make information available in multiple formats

3. Streamline Registration

Make it as easy as possible for people to sign up:

  • Online registration with clear instructions
  • Mobile-friendly signup process
  • Automatic confirmation emails
  • Calendar integration options
  • Easy cancellation and rescheduling

4. Communicate Clearly

Set clear expectations before, during, and after programs:

  • Clear program descriptions with expected outcomes
  • Prerequisite information when needed
  • Reminders before events
  • Follow-up communications with resources
  • Feedback collection mechanisms

5. Iterate Based on Feedback

Continuously improve your programs:

  • Collect feedback after every program
  • Track attendance and engagement metrics
  • Be willing to adjust or discontinue unsuccessful programs
  • Celebrate and expand successful initiatives

Types of Programs

Recurring Programs

Regular meetings, classes, or services that happen on a predictable schedule (weekly services, monthly book clubs, annual festivals).

Special Events

One-time or occasional gatherings that bring the community together for celebration, learning, or service (holiday celebrations, guest speakers, community service days).

Educational Programs

Classes, workshops, and learning opportunities (adult education, youth programs, skill-building workshops).

Social & Networking

Opportunities for community members to connect with each other (coffee hours, family activities, affinity groups).

Support Services

Programs that provide direct assistance to community members (counseling, food pantry, job search support, elder care).