Pixel Jam Digital

Fun fact: Spiders are the only developers who like finding bugs. (We definitely do NOT!)

✨ Website nominations open through July 5 ✨

Ya know how we've said, "We want to save the world through web design?"

Well, part of our mission is to collaborate and leverage technology to drive social change. And, for the past few years, Pixel Jam has selected a nonprofit organization to donate a custom website to.

2022 kicked off our semi-official nonprofit scholarship for CoMo Mobile Aid Collective. Erica had been personally following them for awhile, and eventually worked up the courage to slide into their DMs about a website. COMO Mobile Aid Collective was still in the process of registering as a 501(c)(3) organization so the timing worked out perfectly! We upgraded their website to include a local resource library for folks to get quick access to help where they need it, as well as an online donation portal so people can financially support COMAC's mission.

2023 - Pixel Jam signed up as one of the first agency partners of The Do Good Collective, a dynamic incubator for small and start-up nonprofits. With a shared passion for supporting community-focused organizations, we worked together to build an online hub for events, information and membership.

2024 - Spectrum Health Care - Missouri had reached out for assistance in managing their old website riiiiight around the same time as we were prepping our next website scholarship. The timing was perfect, and Pixel Jam worked with Spectrum to update their branding as well as well as build a new website focused around their core programs: primary healthcare, birth control, STD clinics, and drug testing.

Now we're looking for our next recipient 😍 Visit https://buff.ly/4b3OTxE to nominate a deserving nonprofit, or tell us why your organization should receive our website scholarship!

✨ Website scholarship nominations open through July 5 ✨

Giving back is encoded into who we are and what we do. It’s how we started this company, and it’s how we intend to continue running it. We recognize the resources and opportunities we can provide, so we always have the bandwidth to give back. We advocate and work alongside the communities we’re helping. We center their voices and uplift these communities for the shared common goal driven by the cause.

Let us continue helping our community by nominating a deserving nonprofit. Visit https://buff.ly/4b3OTxE to apply online.

It's important to note that a "desire path" is not a technical term, but it does directly relate to user experience .

The vanilla definition is that desire paths are tracks created by erosion through the footfall of humans and animals. They're lines living things create to get to their desired destination more efficiently or logically.

College campuses are often a great example as you'll find worn paths cutting across grassy areas to get to a specific building, or around a corner, instead of keeping to the sidewalk.

So, why the heck are we bringing these up if they're not a technical term? Because your users are creating desire paths on your website. And, unless you're regularly checking in on their behavior, you might not even be aware of it!

Now, this is where bias comes into play: As much as you want to have control over navigation, your users are going to create their own desire paths to get to the information they're looking for. It's EXTREMELY important to be vigilant about analyzing this information and making the navigation more user-friendly.

Check out your site’s analytics and ask yourself if you should consider making a change using tools like Google Analytics (free) or Hotjar (free plan available). Your website should evolve with your users to match their behavior over time. As your customer learns and adapts, so should your interface to accommodate their needs — even if “it’s only been three months” since you refreshed your site.

In short: Let your users take the road less traveled.

Our purpose is to make custom websites accessible and fun for everyone! And because we recognize that we have the capacity to give back, we partner with communities to develop a better world, one byte at a time.

For the past few years, Pixel Jam has selected a nonprofit organization to donate a custom website to:
2022 -
2023 - The Do Good Collective
2024 -

But we're doing things a lil different this year by creating a nomination and application process. We know there are so many organizations worthy of a new website, so tell us who you think should be the recipient!

Visit https://buff.ly/4b3OTxE to nominate a deserving nonprofit, or tell us why your organization should receive our website scholarship!

✨ Website nominations open through July 5 ✨

Even though we do our best to describe the differences between various website platforms, sometimes it's best to create an analogy. And, since we're 100% NOT car people, why not compare them to cars to keep it silly? 😅 Here's our list:

WordPress = Honda Civic. An unmodified Honda Civic is bland and boring. It's not until you add mods and customize it to your liking that it becomes a cool, competitive beast. All of that customization comes at a cost of long-term maintenance to keep it running.

Squarespace = Cadillac. Cadillacs are considered to be luxurious. Their aesthetic is considered top-tier even if they don't have a lot of power to them. They'll always be flashy.

Shopify = Chevrolet Suburban. This SUV offers substantial space and versatility, making it ideal for businesses with large inventories, similar to how Shopify supports a wide range of ecommerce functionalities.

Webflow = Tesla Model S. Tesla's look cool and modern on the outside, but are also unique in how they run. They're an eye-catching trendsetter.

Wix = Nissan Altima. Altima's are as basic as they come. No one really (like *really*) wants one, but they're affordable and serve their purpose.

Weebly = Kia Soul. The Kia soul has its own look - whether good or bad - and pretty compact. But the novelty is short-lived and has quickly become outdated.

GoDaddy Builder = Dodge Grand Caravan *No explanation is needed.

A lot of entrepreneurs launch their small business because they want to do things a lil differently. They want to create an environment for their ideas to thrive. We don't dream of working, but we do dream while working.

We dream of employing more people and paying them a living wage.

We dream of creating genuine, familiar relationships with our clients and working with friends.

We dream of disrupting the typical 8-5 to place a bigger emphasis on family time.

We dream of creating a safe atmosphere for our non-techie friends to learn.

We dream of inspiring the next generation of designers and developers to learn and grow their skills.

We work and we dream.

To help other small businesses celebrate PRIDE, we wanted to share our go-to resources with you!

The Gender Spectrum Collection - This has been our go-to resource for several years, as it's one of the few that features q***r folk in their day-to-day lives. Sure, there are some beautiful rainbows and pride flags mixed in, but it's great to have a more diverse assortment of photos to choose from!

Picnoi - This new-to-us resource centers Black and brown folks in their stock photography, and offers a selection of images celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.

rawpixel - is a creative design platform that offers much more than stock photography, but also has free images celebrating q***rness available to download! (To note: You do have to sign up for an account, but they have plenty of free images available!)

Burst - is Shopify's solution to free stock images. Once you scroll to page two of their pride collection (past the standard rainbow images) then you'll get to a wonderful variety of q***r photos.

Disabled And Here - We're excited to share another new-to-us resource highlighting disabled people! is a "disability-led effort to provide free & inclusive stock images from our own perspective, with photos and illustrations celebrating disabled Black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC)."

Google's search share in the U.S. has been on the decline since mid-2023. While the numbers may seem negligible to us average small biz owners, it's enough that they're trying to win back users who may have jumped to Bing, Yahoo or DuckDuckGo.

Here are the two biggies that are very likely going to affect your website - and your small business:

*Update #1: Core/Spam Updates *

What's going on: In early March of 2024, Google pushed two larger updates, including one core update, to improve what it deems "helpful content" versus spam content.

The impact: If you had paid for third-party content produced solely for ranking purposes, then you may see more of a decrease in your organic traffic as Google has deemed this as "spammy."

Also, this is where we accept a slice of humble pie, because some of the websites we built were, unfortunately, affected by this update. Google's definition of "spammy content" includes how we built out blog post listings, specifically when it comes to pagination. (If you're one of our clients where we did this, please be on the lookout for an email from us soon!)

What to do about it: We would love to say, "As always, write authentic content for your website!" But as you read about the next update, our standard answer no longer holds the same value.

*Update #2: Google's new AI Overview*

What's going on: Google is slowly rolling out it's new AI Overviews, where their algorithm uses AI to combine multiple answers found across many websites into one result for more complex queries, listed above their paid ad positions.

The impact: What most business owners will likely see is a further decrease in Organic traffic as the content you've worked so hard on creating is combined with other search results for users, without any credit. We just don't know how big of an impact AI Overviews will be.

What to do about it: As much as we tout "appeasing the Google Gods" we want to emphasize two things: (1) You should always have a cross-platform, digital marketing strategy, and (2) It's OK to keep using Google's ranking factors as a guideline for search, as it will help you build up traffic through other search engines as well.

No but seriously. Why did you swipe? 🤨 🧐

Welcome back to hot take Tuesday where we stir the pot to get people fired up and passionate about nerdy, website things. Today's hot take is rated Level 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Today's hot take: THE ALGORITHM IS JUST INTERNET CAPITLISM

As small business owners, there's only so much digital content we can create ourselves to tell our story. Creating *authentic* blogs, posts and stories doesn't seem to appease the social media gods unless we're posting multiple times per day across each platform... While also using the right hashtags... And posting at the exact right time of day... AND immediately replying back to people who are actively engaged.

Yes of course we could hire a talented social media manager who better understands the everchanging algorithm and can be on top of engagement for us, but that would mean another increase in overhead costs.

After putting time, effort and money into creating content, the only ones who truly benefit are the channels we're sharing on. Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and "X" reward those who capture users' attention for longer - perpetually feeding the cycle.

Websites can be seen in a similar light as well, since we're trying to make the Google gods happy as well by building sites with SEO in mind.

Unsurprisingly, most of us didn't start our businesses to make millions. We're doing this because we want to see a change in our industry, meet an unmet need, or try to create a better work/life balance in our lives. (OK, that last one could be a hot take too...)

*Remember: All hot takes are open to discussion.* Do you agree with today's hot take? (Why or why not?)

Welcome back to hot take Tuesday where we stir the pot to get people fired up and passionate about nerdy, website things. Today's hot take is rated Level 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Your website is not something you can "set and forget." It requires regular check ups to ensure it's running smoothly (and operating as expected), as well as planned maintenance to fix old mechanics that have become outdated. Yep, just like your car.

Websites even have similar notifications to alert you if something isn't working right, but this is where it gets tricky because these notifications aren't as obvious as the lights in your dashboard.

It may be "Time for your checkup" 🎵 sung in our best Doc McStuffins voice🎵 if you notice the following:
➡️ You haven't received form notifications in awhile
➡️ You notice your site is lagging as you click between pages
➡️ There are update notifications for plugins
➡️ A user personally lets you know something isn't working for them as expected
➡️ You've received emails from your hosting provider about recent updates, but haven't verified your website is still functional
➡️ You totally forget you have a public website and start to panic when someone brings it up because you have no idea what's on it anymore

(Yes, this last one has come up for us...)

We recommend logging in to the admin dashboard of your website at least once a month to perform a self-check, and checking in with your original website developer at a minimum of once a year to see if it needs any major updates.

Honestly, we don't always love how quickly technology changes either!

*Remember: All hot takes are open to discussion.* Do you agree with today's hot take? (Why or why not?)

Oh hey, it's website launch Friday! And, it's a sweet one!🎂

We had the pleasure of working with .sweets to create the first, official website for Trish's pastry business! And, with 20+ years of experience creating pastries, desserts, candies and custom cakes, there was no shortage of inspiration from her side.

Check it out @ https://tssweets.com/

P.S. For anyone who's curious, YES working on this website flung a sweet craving on all parties involved 😂

P.P.S. Shout out to for the brand work!

Exciting news: You can now find us listed on the Everywhere Is Q***r app, a worldwide map of Q***r-Owned businesses. Available for FREE on Android and iOS!

❤️ 🧡 💛 💚 💙 💜 🖤 🤎

When we say our business aims to be inclusive, that sentiment extends to every day of the year - not just in June. Everyone deserves to live authentically and unapologetically. We stand for equality and proudly support the LGBTQIA+, BIPOC and AAPI communities.

Oh hey, it's website launch Friday!

One aspect of featuring *finished projects* on social media that gets overlooked is that some projects aren't always linear... Sometimes we're brought in for certain components or tasks, but aren't necessarily involved start-to-finish.

We started working with last year in partnership with Gardiner Connections to update their logo. We kept the concept of a lotus flower, but reimagined the water drop and wordmark. They were awarded a grant that allowed them to work with a larger agency on digital marketing, and then we partnered back up in the end to finesse their Shopify website. (Gotta love teamwork!)

So, while we didn't create everything you see, it was a fun experience working alongside the beauty brand and other teams.

Go hydrate your skin @ https://skinshinebeautystore.com/

P.S. CONGRATS to Skinshine Beauty for being the second runner up in the Los Angeles Urban League and Courvoisier Celebrate the Success of their Entrepreneurship Awards Pitch Competition!!! What an amazing achievement that is 100% deserved!

Roses are , violets are . We appreciate your business, and all that you do!

Happy Valentine's Day from the geeks at Pixel Jam Digital 💕

"The switch will be nearly seamless" they said 🙄

As domains are transitioning away from Google Domains to Squarespace Domains, some customers are noticing behind-the-scenes issues popping up...

In this case, you may need to re-verify (or re-authenticate) your website within Google Search Console to continue collecting organic search data now once your domain has been moved over to Squarespace Domains.

To check:
1️⃣ Log into your Google Search Console account
2️⃣ Go to "Settings"
3️⃣ Click on "Ownership Verification"
4️⃣ Click the "Verify" button to ensure your domain is still verified. If not, then you can reconnect it by following one of their suggestions.

Thanks to a friend for asking for our help on this, and bringing it to our attention! We were under the assumption all DNS entries would remain the same. But, as it turns out, it just depends on how Google Search Console was verified in the first place.

Some websites have been programmed to do this automatically, but we know that's not always the case!

So, here's your friendly reminder to update the copyright on your website (probably in the footer) to reflect the new year 2024!

We understand everyone is busy either enjoying their last few days of rest from the Holiday, or diving right back into work (and probably filtering through aaaaaaaaall the emails in your inbox). Updating the copyright isn't extremely urgent, but we also don't want you to be one of those websites that still says "2023" in July...

Welcome back to hot take Tuesday where we stir the pot to get people fired up and passionate about nerdy, website things. Today's hot take is rated Level 🌶️

Yep, this only gets ONE spicy pepper because this *should not* be a hot take!

We close up shop the week of Thanksgiving, and again between Christmas - New Years to allow our team to take a full break. (Not just one of those two day "vacations" that really only gives you enough time to run errands and clean up around the house.) Everyone deserves time to actually relax and enjoy their break - and this includes you!

See y'all in 2024 ✌️

*Remember: All hot takes are open to discussion.* Do you agree with today's hot take? (Why or why not?)

New PJD sweatshirts just dropped thanks to Boyer Print & Design!

Our design encapsulates the essence of the digital realm with a touch of endearing humanity and a dash of programming nostalgia.

A "Hello, World!" program is often the first written by a student of a new programming language to ensure that the computer software intended to compile or run source code is correctly installed, and that its developer understands how to use it. (If you've taken any type of programming course, then you already know!)

It's a celebration of the convergence of tech proficiency and creative warmth, embodying our dedication to web development with a nerdy, yet delightful and feminine touch.

Welcome back to hot take Tuesday where we stir the pot to get people fired up and passionate about nerdy, website things. Today's hot take is rated Level 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Can you imagine hiring a team to build the custom home of your dreams, and you not wanting to discuss the details, share inspiration, or provide feedback? ☠️

Well, we've been told we ask too many questions, thus today's hot take. But, we promise there's a reason for this: We want your custom website to be the equivalent of a custom home for your business. (It's just going to live on the Internet instead of IRL.)

We choose to make our process collaborative in nature so we can empathize. We genuinely want to understand your needs as well as your clients' needs... So we're going to ask a lot of questions along the way to ensure we fully understand. Plus, we understand some of our clients have been burned by other designers or developers who didn't ask *any* questions at all, leaving them feeling disappointed. (We don't want that either!)

This is why our process is as detailed as it is. (And, honestly, it's always evolving!) We'll have a kickoff meeting to get started, multiple draft reviews, a final review aaaaaand a post-launch follow-up to make sure everything is to your satisfaction 🥰

*Remember: All hot takes are open to discussion.* Do you agree with today's hot take? (Why or why not?)

Oh hey, it's website launch Friday!⁣

Engineering Surveys and Services delivers engineering solutions, surveying, construction support and analytical testing... And we delivered a new website!

ES&S had the perfect shade of blue to incorporate grid lines as a design element to emulate blueprints. We then used this pattern to create texture in places with large, bold text so it didn't feel as flat. (It may sound cliche, but it helps to visually represent their services without having to rely on reading through the text... And we all know users don't like to read )

And, a special shout out goes to for providing us with their kickass photography to work with. We love getting to work with our biz besties!

Check the new website out @ https://ess-inc.com/

Oh hey, it's website launch Friday!⁣

Earlier this year we had the pleasure of revamping 's website, and the transformation is truly a feast for the eyes!

Happy Hollow brings farm-fresh goodness to our local community every week at the Columbia Farmer's Market. PLUS their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares offer a bounty of deliciousness with meat, eggs, fruits and veggies. FarmHER Liz Graznak is entering her 13th year as the owner of Happy Hollow Farm, a USDA Certified Organic and Real Organic Project certified farm. (Go Liz!!!!)

Support local and embrace freshness✌️ Check out the new website @ https://happyhollowfarm-mo.com/

A few weeks ago, Wordpress released version 6.4 - a "critical" release that forced automatic updates for any Wordpress-based website that didn't have "automatic updates" turned off within the .htaccess file. (Not even a good ole' plugin did the trick.)

It wouldn't have been a big deal, except a couple of plugins we regularly use were not compatible , leaving our clients with broken websites. We were completely caught off guard.

S**t happens. 🥲

First, we emailed our clients to inform them about the issue so they were aware.

Second, we found a band-aid fix to temporarily disable auto-updates and reverted these websites back to 6.3.

Third, we searched for a permanent fix. As it turned out, we needed to wait for these other plugin developers to update their stuff before we could do this... So we played the waiting game for almost one week. In the meantime, we tried to stay on top of preventing more auto-updates, but every once in awhile, a site would update o 6.4 again, causing it to break, and we'd need to jump back in.

S**t happens. 😭

Eventually, we were able to roll out a solution and help resolve the issue entirely... But it took time. It's never fun to tell a client, "Hey your website is broken and we don't have a fix - yet!" So we appreciate everyone's patience in the process.

S**t happens in business, even when you don't want it to!