SimplePie

simplepie.org (screenshot)

SimplePie is "a very fast and easy-to-use class, written in PHP, that puts the 'simple' back into 'really simple syndication'".

SimplePie was created to solve the problem of RSS being difficult to work with — particularly by PHP beginners, of which I was one at the time. Since then, SimplePie has matured to the point where it has been called "an invaluable tool", "the new black this season", and "almost certainly the best PHP-based parser right now".

We wanted to make a splash and garner attention with a new website that showcased the project in a positive light, and provided things like a demo and documentation to help developers get up to speed ASAP.

The first version of the website was released in January 2006, and as the site has grown to include more information, I've gone back and revised areas of the website (including copy, design elements, navigation, new wiki software, etc.). These are the results from the most recent design refresh (Summer 2007):

What was done (website)

• Simplified the navigation system by grouping the information better and using more appropriate labels.
• Streamlined the homepage making it shorter, simpler, and less cluttered while still showcasing software features.
• Moved all of the documentation into a wiki, allowing end-users to contribute to this community project.
• Streamlined and enhanced the download and development pages.
• We designed the entire front page to contain everything important in an 1024x768 window.
• The result was a drop in the average homepage bounce rate to 40%, increased time spent on the site, and happier users (via comments, blog posts, emails, etc.).

View SimplePie (code)

• SimplePie Source
• Learn more about the SimplePie family of software and services

Involvement

Co-development of the project, visual design, logo design, development, copywriting, search engine optimization, ongoing maintenance, and all other aspects of production.