Bespoke Membership Platform & Interactive National Mapping System

The Challenge

National Pubwatch required a modern, scalable digital platform to support Pubwatch schemes across the UK.

Their previous website relied on outdated plugins and lacked the functionality needed to:

• Accurately display Pubwatch groups nationally
• Allow local pub owners to manage their own scheme data
• Provide secure, role-based access
• Deliver a modern user experience across devices
• Support the structured management of community safety groups

The objective was to create a centralised, user-friendly system capable of supporting a national network of independent schemes.

Our Approach

We designed and developed a bespoke WordPress solution built around a custom plugin architecture - replacing outdated tools with a purpose-built, scalable system.

Revamped Interactive Map Integration

A key feature of the platform is a completely rewritten, advanced custom map system.

We developed a bespoke plugin allowing:

• Pubwatch administrators to upload and manage their scheme information
• Locations to be pinned directly onto an interactive national map
• Users to easily find their nearest Pubwatch group
• Real-time visibility of scheme distribution across the UK

This transformed static location listings into a dynamic, self-managed ecosystem.

Multi-Level User Access & Governance

To support the national structure, we implemented a multi-tier access framework, enabling:

• General public access to view schemes
• Local Pubwatch administrators to manage their listings
• National-level oversight and moderation controls

Each user role is tailored with specific permissions and capabilities - ensuring both flexibility and governance integrity.

Modernised User Experience

The platform was redesigned with:

• A contemporary, mobile-responsive interface
• Clear navigation and improved search functionality
• Streamlined content management
• Faster performance and improved usability

The result is a user-centric experience accessible across desktop and mobile devices.

Custom Functionality Enhancements

Additional bespoke features included:

• Enhanced search and filtering capability
• Structured content management tools
• Simplified backend administration
• Improved scalability for future expansion

Every feature was built with long-term maintainability and national coordination in mind.

Impact

Since launch, National Pubwatch now benefits from:

• A modern, scalable digital infrastructure
• A fully interactive, self-managed national map
• Improved visibility for local Pubwatch schemes
• Secure, role-based governance controls
• A significantly enhanced user experience

The website has evolved from a static information hub into an operational platform supporting community safety coordination nationwide.

What This Demonstrates

This project highlights The DM Lab’s ability to:

• Develop bespoke WordPress plugin architecture
• Replace outdated systems with scalable infrastructure
• Build interactive, data-driven mapping platforms
• Implement structured multi-level access systems
• Deliver governance-aware national membership ecosystems