Case Study
Green tech web app development for GBI
When Green Building Initiative (GBI) needed to translate their Green Globes® Net Zero Calculator™ from an Excel-based tool to a software application, Lincoln Loop developed a modern Django web application that fully integrates with their proprietary platforms.
Background
The Green Building Initiative (GBI) is a global nonprofit committed to improving the environmental impact of commercial buildings. Through its various green certification programs, GBI aims to enhance the sustainability of the built environment. One such program is the Green Globes Journey to Net Zero™, a tool designed to help building owners track energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions over time.
Challenge
While the Green Globes Journey to Net Zero™ Calculator was functional, it was built in Excel and came with notable limitations in terms of usability, scalability, and system integration. GBI needed a more robust solution—a web-based tool that was intuitive, visually engaging, and capable of integrating seamlessly with their existing systems via API. Additionally, the new platform needed to accommodate future growth, and be maintainable by GBI’s existing Ops team.
Client
Screens from the original Net Zero™ Calculator, an Excel-based tool
Solution
We began by conducting a thorough strategy phase, mapping out GBI’s existing processes and defining the needs for the new platform. Our team developed a design system in Figma inspired by Bootstrap to ensure consistency across GBI’s applications and simplify future updates.
The application was built using Django, HTMX, and Highcharts, enabling it to handle large data sets and offer real-time reporting. To enhance maintainability, we created reusable utility functions that reduced redundancy and streamlined data calculations. This not only improved the accuracy of the system but also simplified ongoing maintenance.
Throughout the project, we maintained close communication with GBI, adapting as the project’s scope evolved. This flexibility allowed us to deliver a modern solution that met the GBI’s evolving needs, integrated with their systems via API, and significantly improved overall efficiency.
The Right Fit for the Job
GBI turned to Lincoln Loop for their deep experience in creating complex web applications and their expertise in user-centric design. Our team, with extensive knowledge in Django development, was perfectly positioned to transform GBI's outdated Excel tool into a scalable, easy-to-use web application. Our collaborative, transparent approach allowed us to meet GBI’s goals within their timeframe and budget.
Screens from the redesigned Net Zero™ Calculator, a modern Django web application
Results
By migrating the Excel-based tool to a fully integrated web platform, GBI gained a more user-friendly, scalable solution that supports their long-term objectives.
Key results include:
- Improved user experience
Modern UI provides real-time feedback and insights through 15+ data visualizations. - Scalability and maintainability
Codebase supports 12+ energy sources, 25+ components, 3+ project types, 4+ user types, and geography-based calculations. - Operational efficiency
GBI team can easily export/download project data. - Seamless integration with GBI’s other systems
Communicates with GBI’s OPs Platform via API for all account and project management functionality. - Long-term value
Design prototypes encompass future features that support long-term objectives.
These results underscore our ability to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions that exceed client expectations.
Looking Forward
The new platform’s flexible, scalable design ensures that GBI can continue to evolve the tool as their needs grow. By laying a strong technical foundation, Lincoln Loop has equipped GBI with a solution that will play a vital role in achieving their mission to improve environmental performance in commercial real estate for years to come.
Lincoln Loop’s expertise and strategic guidance were key in delivering a high-quality, user-friendly tool that will play an important role in advancing our mission to provide impactful resources to the green building community.
Adam Feiszli Director, Technology & Operations
Let’s build something great
Our work has helped over
1 billion people,
delivering solutions that make a difference.
15+ years of working together,
expertise you can rely on
— no revolving doors.
