🛠️ Client Overview:
Gibson Fence and Deck is a custom outdoor solutions provider, specializing in decks, porches, and fencing. Known for high-quality craftsmanship and personalized service, they wanted to digitize the initial planning phase of their projects.
❌ Challenge:
Before the calculator, Gibson faced several hurdles:
📋 Manual estimations were time-consuming and prone to error.
🤯 Customers struggled to understand how choices affected the budget.
📞 Frequent back-and-forth for quotes added friction to the sales process.
🧮 No simple way for users to explore design options or get ballpark pricing upfront.
💡 Solution:
Desol Int. collaborated with Gibson to build an interactive Deck & Porch Calculator—a web-based tool that empowers users to estimate project costs in real time and customize their design.
🧱 Project Type Selection:
Users choose between building a new deck, resurfacing, or adding a porch.
📏 Size and Dimensions: Input area dimensions to influence material and labor estimates.
🛑 Custom Railing Options: Select from wood, metal, or composite railings for both style and budget impact.
☔ Weatherproofing + Add-Ons: Options include waterproof covers, rain ceilings, deck tiles, and more.
🎨 Material + Finish Selection: Users pick stain types, tile patterns, and other finishes.
💰 Live Cost Updates: Real-time calculations adjust instantly as selections are made.
📍 Geo-Based Measurement Tool: A built-in map tool helps users accurately measure irregular spaces.
🛠️ Implementation:
✅ Responsive Web App: Optimized for mobile and desktop users.
✅ Live Pricing Integration: Connects to backend data for up-to-date material and labor rates.
✅ Dynamic UI: Interface updates in real time, simplifying complex decisions.
✅ User-Friendly Layout: Intuitive flow reduces cognitive load, even for first-time users.
📊 Results:
📈 Increased Engagement: Visitors spend more time exploring options and get immediate value.
🔄 Reduced Manual Work: Automation cuts down on quote-related inquiries and human error.
💡 Smarter Decisions: Users can see how choices impact pricing, making them more confident.
🚀 Enhanced Brand Perception: Positions Gibson Fence and Deck as a tech-savvy, customer-first business.
✅ Conclusion:
The ‘Deck & Porch Calculator’ transformed Gibson’s approach to client engagement. By combining real-time estimates, visual customization, and a smooth UX, the tool makes planning outdoor spaces simple, fast, and transparent. Future enhancements like guided templates and booking integration can further boost user satisfaction and conversion. Tech Stack: WordPress Gravity Forms Google Map API integration Javascrip JQuery PHP