Wild Wet Web Design
Schlitterbahn Waterparks & Resorts
Schlitterbahn, an operator of Waterpark and Year-Round Resorts originating in Texas, was looking for a partner to develop a responsive website in a new best-in-class CMS -- and found the right match in Ascedia. Mobile-first design, e-commerce integrations and user funnel nurturing were key strategies for generating significant growth.

Challenge
Schlitterbahn needed to redesign its website, which had a fragmented technology framework and performance issues. The website needed to support Schlitterbahn’s multiple locations (four in Texas and one in Kansas) and improve performance while increasing sales, visitation and engagement. It was also critical that the new website launch – in time to kick off the season and spotlight promotions
Solution
Ascedia’s research indicated an opportunity for an improved user experience and brand supportive design. It was also critical to address mobile usability, as a larger percentage of their visitors were accessing the site via mobile devices.
Kentico CMS
A discovery process to define objectives and prioritize features for the initial launch drove development of a scalable platform that would support future enhancements. The new site leveraged Kentico CMS for scalable and easy-to-use site management and multi-location support.
Experience Design
A site navigation structure quickly funnels users to their desired location. Usability prototype testing guided and validated design early in the process. Responsive design met the needs of users no matter their location or preferred devices.
High Availability Infrastructure
Because of product seasonality, an optimized infrastructure was created with performance capable of accommodating sudden spikes in traffic (over 1 million in one month)
Booking Support
Integration with multiple third-party booking engines met the needs of each property, including room bookings, admission tickets, season passes and cabana sales.
Improved Content
Large imagery and video integration to support the brand and inspire visitors. An optimized site structure built for SEO and social integration assist enhanced attraction and accommodation pages.
Kentico CMS
A discovery process to define objectives and prioritize features for the initial launch drove development of a scalable platform that would support future enhancements. The new site leveraged Kentico CMS for scalable and easy-to-use site management and multi-location support.
Experience Design
A site navigation structure quickly funnels users to their desired location. Usability prototype testing guided and validated design early in the process. Responsive design met the needs of users no matter their location or preferred devices.
High Availability Infrastructure
Because of product seasonality, an optimized infrastructure was created with performance capable of accommodating sudden spikes in traffic (over 1 million in one month)
Booking Support
Integration with multiple third-party booking engines met the needs of each property, including room bookings, admission tickets, season passes and cabana sales.
Improved Content
Large imagery and video integration to support the brand and inspire visitors. An optimized site structure built for SEO and social integration assist enhanced attraction and accommodation pages.
Results
Schlitterbahn's website was developed in just four months and results for the first few months have exceeded expectations.
3.5 Million users, up 12%
26.9 Million pageviews, up 43%
Revenue up 48%
Organic Sessions up 64%

Organization:
Schlitterbahn Waterparks & Resorts
Industry:
Travel & Tourism
Services Rendered:
Digital Marketing
Digital Advertising & Paid Search
Digital Strategy
Experience Design
Content Management
Content Strategy