Rockit Science was proud to partner with IATSE Local 478 to reimagine and rebuild the union’s digital presence—creating a bold, user-centered website that better serves its members, showcases its impact in the entertainment industry, and invites new talent to get involved.
The Challenge
While the union’s role in the region had expanded significantly, its digital presence no longer reflected that evolution. The previous website was difficult to navigate, visually outdated, and lacked the tools necessary to support members in their daily union interactions. Key actions like submitting permit requests, updating availability, or registering for training were either scattered across multiple platforms or handled manually. This not only created frustration for users but also placed an administrative burden on the union staff.
The Approach
Our approach began with a deep discovery process aimed at understanding the needs of all user groups—from seasoned members and administrative staff to first-time visitors and prospective members. We collaborated closely with IATSE leadership to reimagine the site as a modern, mobile-first platform that reflected the professionalism and purpose of the union. This included defining clear user flows, consolidating tools and forms into a centralized member portal, and integrating with existing union platforms to streamline backend operations.
Identity, Legacy,
and Purpose
The new IATSE 478 website was crafted to visually represent the soul of the union—those who work behind the scenes to bring productions to life. The design choices were made with intention, each element grounded in the identity of the membership and the story they continue to write.
A Digital Home for Those Who Bring Stories to Life
With seamless tools for communication, training, and engagement, the platform was built to serve the real, daily needs of crew members on and off set. It’s a space that works as hard as they do—functional, bold, and built for those who make the magic happen.
Design That Educates & Empowers
One of the primary goals of the new IATSE 478 website redesign was to clearly communicate the value of union membership—highlighting better working conditions, fair wages, and collective bargaining power. By simplifying key concepts and placing them front and center, the site strengthens understanding, inspires action, and supports the growth of the workforce behind the scenes.
Highlighting the Crafts
That Power the Industry
We transformed the outdated list of crafts into an intuitive, searchable directory that clearly showcases who Local 478 represents. By organizing roles into visual categories and adding a smart search feature, we made it easier for users to find their craft and understand the union’s reach.
Showcasing a Legacy
of Craft & Contribution
The redesigned History and Shows page celebrates Local 478’s legacy with a dynamic, Netflix-style scrolling experience that showcases decades of work alongside standout productions. Integrated with the TMDB API, the page adds visual hierarchy, intuitive search, and a narrative-driven layout—making it easier for users to discover and appreciate the union’s powerful role in shaping the industry.
A Fully Reimagined Member Portal
We set out to create a centralized experience where members could access everything they need in one secure location. By consolidating essential tools into a single, authenticated dashboard, we eliminated the need to hunt for information across disconnected systems.
A Complete Overhaul
for Access and Clarity
In rethinking the member portal, our goal was to create a streamlined, intuitive experience that prioritized the tools and resources union members rely on most. We improved mobile responsiveness to ensure members could easily access critical information—like availability reporting, permits, training, and contracts—while on set or on the move.
Everything Members Need,
Front and Center
The previous member portal left users searching for answers—often leading to a flood of support requests. Our goal was to streamline access by putting the most-used tools like dues payments, availability updates, and permits front and center. The redesigned dashboard removes friction, saves time, and empowers members to find what they need without the extra steps.
Real-Time Accuracy Via
Seamless API Integrations
To eliminate outdated information and reduce administrative bottlenecks, we implemented a secure API integration with the platform IATSE Local 478 currently uses to host their member data. This ensures that every tool within the portal—membership directories, permit tracking, availability updates, and more—pulls live data directly from the source. By prioritizing real-time accuracy, the new members portal empowers members to confidently access up-to-date information when they need it most.
From Complexity to Clarity
The new IATSE 478 website lays a strong foundation for long-term impact. With improved infrastructure, refined messaging, and a member-focused experience, the platform is now positioned to support union operations more effectively, engage current and prospective members, and elevate the visibility of Local 478’s work across the region. This project sets the stage for continued growth, clearer communication, and deeper community connection in the years ahead.
- Coming Soon
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