The ISDC’s third generation of websites are about to be launched.

The new site design recognises the complexities of presenting the dual aspects of immersive sci-fi. The first aspect is a highly-realistic simulated environment where everything is presented as real, while the second aspect is an online TV show. Each aspect now has its own look and feel.

This reflects that the concept can be different things to different people. Some will want to roll up their sleeves and engage the simulated environment as part of the crew. Others just want to watch some great sci-fi.

The broadcast site at www.endeavourmission.tv is designed as a typical TV site, presenting production updates, background information and ways to watch. The visual design reflects the vessel’s console interfaces.

The “immersed” website, where the ISDC is treated as real, has the visual design typical of a large organisation (as you might expect). There are actually multiple websites within this area, including the careers website at careers.webtactical.net, and a crew site providing access to technical information, training materials and news for serving crew.

Direct access to these sites will be limited, to preserve an air of secrecy around the ISDC. Visitors will initially be directed to the Milesham Organisation website, which represents the ISDC’s cover story. Those wanting to access these sites will need to demonstrate their suitability by finding a way to get through to the ISDC.

Functional improvements have also been made to navigation. The main menu can now present more layers making it easier to see content in context, something that is also aided by the addition of a breadcrumb-style secondary navigation above each page.

Let us know if you spot anything you like or dislike about the new site using the contact form (always accessible from the top right-hand corner of the screen).