Esri is a global leader in mapping and data technology and has been pioneering geographic information system (GIS) software and location intelligence since 1969. Through its flagship platform, ArcGIS, the company helps organizations use geographic science and geospatial analytics to better understand the world and solve complex problems. At its core, Esri is committed to using science and technology to help build a more sustainable future.
Each year, esri.com receives more than 36 million visits from people at many stages of the customer journey. The site serves as the primary gateway into the Esri ecosystem. Visitors come to discover the company and its software, learn how GIS is applied across industries, purchase products, attend in-person and virtual events, access training and support, and explore thought leadership through blogs, podcasts, and video.
Designing for a platform of this scale requires balancing business goals with meaningful human experiences. The UX/UI team focuses on creating experiences that inform, engage, support, and inspire. At the same time, the work must advance product, marketing, sales, and brand objectives. A central goal is to create a unified global experience that can be consistently measured and managed while still forming an authentic connection with users. To achieve this, the team relies on foundational design standards that emphasize clarity, trust, and emotional resonance.
This work is led by a multidisciplinary design team that collaborates closely with project managers, researchers, writers, CMS authors, and developers. UX/UI design leadership includes Stefanie Tieman, Alex Smailes, Amanda McKinley, Paul Briseño, Thanh Hoang, Jay Shapiro, Justine Leach, Nick Bauch, Rhia Pumhirun, and Dimitri Lundquist. The broader creative effort is supported by video, illustration, graphic, and animation teams led by Peter Stonier, Suzanne Hoyt, Tammy Johnson, Steve Frizzel, and Kyle Heinemann, in partnership with Esri’s Chief Creative Officer, James Hitchcock.
The art direction guide sets standards for visual design and is used to create a unified look and feel with a focus on consistency, scalability, simplicity and clarity.
The visual language of the site is built on clear, concise, and scalable compositions that quickly communicate big picture concepts.
