Overview
To support the Smithsonian’s America 250 initiative, Interactive Knowledge partnered with the Smithsonian Institution’s Office of Digital and Innovation to create Smithsonian Across America—an interactive, public-facing map experience that visualizes the Institution’s nationwide reach. Built as a module within si.edu, the application highlights how the Smithsonian extends far beyond Washington, D.C., connecting with communities across the country through research, education, and cultural programs.
Challenge
While the Smithsonian is widely recognized for its museums on the National Mall, its extensive national impact is less visible to the public, funders, and policymakers. The challenge was to translate a vast and complex ecosystem of programs, partnerships, and data into a clear, compelling experience that demonstrates local relevance. The solution needed to balance storytelling with data visualization while integrating seamlessly into an existing enterprise web platform.
Approach
Interactive Knowledge designed a map-driven experience grounded in narrative exploration rather than raw data display. Working closely with the Office of Digital and Innovation, the team developed a flexible framework that organizes content into thematic categories—such as research, education, and museum support—making it easier for users to understand the breadth of Smithsonian activities.
The application leverages Drupal as its CMS foundation and integrates with the Smithsonian’s AWS infrastructure, including S3 and Redshift, to dynamically surface data. A phased release strategy allows the experience to launch with a curated dataset that emphasizes geographic reach and “abundance,” with additional layers and content enhancements planned for future iterations.
Key Features
- Interactive National Map: A Leaflet-powered interface that enables users to explore Smithsonian activities by location and category.
- Story-Driven Data Visualization: Content organized into thematic groupings that highlight real-world impact, from museum partnerships to scientific research.
- Comprehensive Activity Coverage: Includes affiliates, traveling exhibitions, collections on loan, research initiatives, educational programs, and fellowships.
- Scalable Architecture: Built within Drupal and powered by cloud-based data systems, enabling ongoing expansion and refinement.
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Phased Rollout Strategy: Initial release focuses on curated storytelling, with additional data layers and features planned to deepen engagement over time.
Results
Smithsonian Across America provides a clear, accessible way to understand the Institution’s national footprint and local impact. By transforming complex datasets into an engaging, map-based narrative, the experience helps users quickly see how the Smithsonian connects with their communities.
The platform supports greater transparency and communication with key stakeholders—including funders and Congress—while reinforcing the Smithsonian’s role as a truly national institution. With a scalable foundation and planned enhancements, the project establishes a long-term digital framework for showcasing impact across the nation.