GMTU Website, CRM & Member Sign-Up Overhaul
- Employer: Greater Manchester Tenants Union (GMTU)
- Project: Website design & build plus database and sign-up overhaul
- Date: 2025
- Tools used: WordPress, Zetkin CRM, Custom plugin development, Mailchimp
In 2024 I identified that Greater Manchester Tenants Union's digital infrastructure was no longer fit for purpose. The existing static Bootstrap website, database management tool, and member sign-up journey had served their purpose but weren't keeping pace with the union's growing membership. I initiated and led a full overhaul from appraisal through to completion.
The project had three interconnected strands: a new WordPress website, a CRM implementation, and a redesigned sign-up journey — all of which needed to work together seamlessly.
After researching CRM options I settled on Zetkin, a platform built specifically for membership organisations and activist groups. Moving from a basic database tool to a proper CRM was a significant step forward for the union's ability to manage and communicate with its membership effectively. I also recommended WordPress for the new site over a static build, so that colleagues could update content themselves without needing technical knowledge.
The most complex element was integrating the website's sign-up form directly with Zetkin — something that required a bespoke plugin. I scoped the requirements, engaged software developers to build it, and worked closely with them throughout to ensure the integration functioned exactly as needed and that the member journey was smooth from first click to confirmed membership.
Alongside the technical work, I liaised with one of the union's funding organisations to explain the project and supported a colleague in a successful application for a specialist tech funding grant to help cover costs. I also organised staff training, including coordinating an in-person workshop with one of the Zetkin team who travelled from Sweden to deliver a full training day.
The results spoke for themselves — membership approximately doubled between 2023 and 2024, with the union reaching over 500 members by early 2026.