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DSGNECHO

Designing for Impact – Scaling Trust and Transparency, Enabling an NGO's Mission Digitally

Client

NM Sadguru

Type

NGO

Year

2025

Tags

Website Design, UX/UI Design,
Social Impact, Purpose Driven Brand

The Project

Design Brief

NM Sadguru has been a respected force in the NGO space since the 1970s, with a legacy of grassroots impact spanning nearly five decades.

Our collaboration began in 2015 when they took their first step into the digital space and approached us to build their online presence. With little to no online footprint, we started with in-depth discovery sessions — engaging trustees and key stakeholders to understand their mission and structure.

They had a clear long-term vision to enable online donations, but recognized they weren’t ready to implement it just yet. So, they chose a phased approach, beginning with a strong digital foundation.

Our Approach

NM Sadguru has been driving transformation in rural Gujarat, using water as a powerful tool for community development — a resource they identify as key to empowerment. Their logo, designed by the founder in the 1970s, reflects this vision: a green, thriving world powered by water. Today, their work spans nearly 500 square kilometers and is backed by a reputation for transparency that has earned the trust of high-profile donors.

The first website we launched in 2015 brought clarity and structure to their online presence and was well- received, especially among donors, as it effectively communicated their mission and impact.

In 2024, nearly a decade later, they invited us as their trusted design partner for a complete overhaul. With evolving technology and a growing scope of work, we modernized the platform — upgrading the tech stack, enhancing scalability, and delivering a clean, user-friendly experience. The new site reflects their expanded focus on livestock, irrigation, and community development. We also added a donation gateway for direct contributions like tree plantations or livestock support, while project-specific donations continue through direct contact.

Phase 2 is scheduled to go live in July 2025, featuring a robust backend and integrated content management system. Designed with a five-to-seven-year growth horizon in mind, the site uses only real, on-location visuals to preserve authenticity and trust.

The clean, intuitive interface makes it easy to explore their work, financials, and audit reports — often published within the first week of April, reinforcing their strong commitment to transparency.

The website is being developed in three phases, with Phase 3 set to deepen community engagement through a trusted digital platform. For instance, farmer groups can list produce online, allowing buyers to connect via federations. Transactions happen independently, with NM Sadguru simply facilitating digital connections.

Their work has even reversed migration trends from villages to cities — drawing people back by creating stable, sustainable livelihoods. It’s a strong example of how grassroots vision and digital strategy can together drive long-term transformation.