AI as Experience Layer

Lessons from RISD's Search Redesign

webinar overview

See how Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is using AI to transform student search without the buzzwords or big budgets. RISD’s Brian Clark will walk you through how they rebuilt the search experience to deliver AI-powered answers that actually help students find what they need.

what you’ll learn

How RISD unified search across siloed subdomains
Real implementation details: what worked and what surprised them
How to deploy generative AI as a practical tool, not a shiny add-on
Ways to improve digital experience while working with real-world constraints

Join us for an insightful conversation with practical takeaways for marketing, UX, admissions and content teams who want to make it easier for students to get answers.

Meet Your Hosts

Jeff Dillon

Higher Education Digital Strategist at SearchStax

Jeff has over 20 years of leadership experience in higher education technology with expertise in search engines, AI, digital experience platforms, personalization strategies and communication tools. Jeff is also the founder of Ed Tech Connect, a technology marketplace for the higher ed community.

Brian Clark

Senior Director of Digital Experience at Rhode Island School of Design

Brian leads the strategy and execution of digital products and programs at RISD that transform and enhance the institution’s online presence, brand visibility, and user satisfaction. Brian has deep expertise in creating digital ecosystems that advance an organization’s strategic priorities.

Additional Resources

All New Research Report

SearchStax partnered with The Chronicle of Higher Education to survey 225+ marketing and web experience professionals in higher education.

AI Smart Assistant: Higher Ed’s Search Amplifier

Today’s students expect fast, intelligent search, and most higher ed websites aren’t delivering. Explore how AI-powered site search can close the gap, improve content discovery and help institutions meet rising expectations of their current, and future, generation of students.

How Smarter Campus Search Wins with AI-Savvy Students

More than 80% of college applicants turn to search engines to explore programs, compare schools and gather information, making your home page the most expensive page nobody sees.