In Italian, così means “like this” — or “just so” — or, depending on how you say it, “well, you know… like that.” It’s what you say when words aren’t quite enough and it’s just easier to show someone. A gesture. A demonstration. A working example.
It’s also what you say when something finally clicks.
We named the firm Così Digital because we like Italy and the Italian language. But also because we believe the best answer to “how do I do this?” is a thoughtfully built thing you can point to and say: like this. You know that satisfying feeling of showing someone exactly what you mean? Così.
Who we are
Experienced digital communication specialists.
Così Digital was founded by people who have spent decades inside K-12 schools, universities, museums, and communications offices — who know what it’s like to be the person responsible for a website that everyone has opinions about and no one has time to help maintain. We know what it feels like to sign a contract with a platform that will be very expensive to leave.
We built this firm because we believe institutions that are trying to do good in the world deserve digital partners who are genuinely trying to help.
Information should be open and content should be portable.
When any one platform governs your data, your design options, and your ability to leave, it controls more of your communications strategy than it should.
We offer an alternative built on open-source technology. Our clients own their content. They stay with us because the work is good and the partnership is valuable.
John Pennypacker
John has spent more than 20 years creating and optimizing websites and other digital experiences. During his career, he’s strengthened the online presences of Brown, URI, and Clark. He strives to bridge the gap between the technical and the human — ensuring sites are fast and accessible while shaping content and search strategy that connect people with their interests. Data informs every decision, and the goal is always the same: build digital experiences that people enjoy.
Laurel McLaughlin
Laurel has spent decades helping institutions build websites and tell stories that reach people. She’s created digital content for Clark, URI, the RISD Museum, and independent schools across Rhode Island. Laurel builds web experiences that speak across language, cultural perspective, ability, and learning style. Good messaging lies in what you can see — homepage copy, image selection — and in what you can’t — semantic markup, alt text. Our goal is for everyone who visits your site to find what they need.