WebstanZ Unifies 50+ University of Namur Websites on a Single Drupal Platform

A fragmented ecosystem in need of clarity

Before this transformation, UNamur’s digital presence was a patchwork of standalone departmental sites. While each site addressed specific needs, the overall experience lacked consistency, clarity, and accessibility. It also posed challenges for branding and user navigation, particularly for new students.

Seeking a unified solution, the university identified Drupal as the ideal platform—valued for its openness, flexibility, and robust content management capabilities.

Building a platform with purpose

With WebstanZ, UNamur launched a full digital redesign. The process included ideation workshops, stakeholder interviews, and in-depth analysis of user behaviors. The goal was not merely technical—it was strategic storytelling through digital design.

The challenge lay in balancing centralized structure with faculty-specific flexibility. The final platform dynamically adapts to each visitor’s profile—be it a prospective student, researcher, staff member, or international collaborator—while maintaining a consistent user experience.

UNamur’s internal communication teams now manage content with greater efficiency, thanks to a system designed for editorial control and accessibility compliance.

Technical foundation and key integrations

This project extended beyond a visual redesign. WebstanZ developed a multisite-capable Drupal architecture that centralizes configuration and theme logic while enabling decentralized content control. Key technical features include:

• LDAP and CAS integration for single sign-on (SSO)
• Granular roles and permissions supporting decentralized governance
• Multilingual content with FR/EN translation workflows
• Solr search with faceted navigation and personalized ranking
• Custom modules for course catalog, research databases, and job listings

Each component was designed for maintainability and future expansion, avoiding vendor lock-in and empowering the university’s IT team for long-term evolution.

A foundation for the future

The unified platform has already enhanced institutional identity and improved user journeys—particularly for prospective students. With better content structure and searchability, the university’s message is now clearer and more accessible.

This initiative became more than a technical overhaul; it redefined UNamur’s digital strategy. With Drupal at the core and WebstanZ as its partner, the university is positioned as a digitally forward academic institution prepared for future challenges.