Living history: new website and AI-supported editorial system

Linking history and the present

In addition to the core tasks of the BStU - preserving the Stasi files and making them accessible to the public - information about the work and methods of the Stasi played an important role in the redesign of the online presence. We combined both aspects into a harmonious whole using appropriate service modules and generous narrative elements.

Telling a story: dynamic storytelling

Full-screen design, separate story navigation, varied image-text combinations, direct use of media from the Stasi media library and much more.
The specially developed storytelling module illustrates and deepens an important chapter of German history and some of the most exciting episodes of the Cold War era in a lively and well-founded way.
Story: The building of the Wall in the documents of the State Security Service

Usability first! User guidance and convenience

In addition, we have implemented elements that offer both users and editors a plus in usability. For example, a jump marker navigation is automatically generated from the content sections of a page. This enables quick switching between sections and eliminates the need for sub-navigation. Other examples include an interactive timeline and modular teasers for key topics.

Intelligent backend: content maintenance made easy

We designed the TYPO3 backend to significantly simplify and reduce the workflow and workload for the more than 40 editors. We have created a secure working environment through intelligent approval processes. The modular structure of the website allows for new editorial freedom. In addition, content such as events and job vacancies from the BStU database or overviews of the archive holdings are easily integrated via several interfaces.

Fresh from research: digital curation technologies

Findings and the latest technologies from our BMBF research project Digital Curation Technologies (DKT) also benefit the new BStU website - which brings added value for users and editors alike: Editors can automatically identify and mark abbreviations, glossary terms and other entities such as persons or MfS organisations in articles with one click in the backend, which saves manual linking and increases accessibility.

Performant and intuitive, faceted search

From the homepage, users can search the website, publications, dates and news, the Stasi media library, the MfS encyclopaedia and external sources for all BStU files and filter them according to their needs. A first-class research tool for interested parties and experts.

Projects with purpose

For over 30 years, we have been working with remarkable institutions from the education, science, culture, administration or business sectors. 

All our projects are based on common features: their demand for a high standard of editorial quality, their complexity and the fact that they are part of a greater societal change.

Throughout our work, an innovative and strategic outlook is key. At the same time, we have the highest demands on usability, design and the underlying technology of our work. All of these components must prove sustainable in the long term.

In all contexts, we value a comprehensive understanding of the diverse organizational cultures of our clients. We know how to support employees in change processes and how to moderate cultural change.

We see consulting as a joint process in which we use co-creative elements as effective and active forms of collaboration. Our aim is to involve all relevant stakeholders in finding solutions in order to achieve an optimal result that will be accepted in the long term.

Awards

Our work has received many awards. We work on projects with journalistic standards and high benchmarks for design and usability. Thanks to these criteria, 3pc was awarded the Grimme Online Award as well as other prizes.

Our Clients

For over 27 years, we have been successfully working with federal ministries and public institutions, cities and communities, universities, research foundations, museums, cultural institutions as well as private businesses.