The Cascade Blog

Top CMS Developers in Portland, Oregon (2026 Guide)

A 2026 guide to the top CMS developers in Portland, Oregon. Compare strengths, specialties, and the right fit for your next content management project.

From the Attic to AI: A Conversation with Ben McKinley

A reflection on Cascade’s journey from its early days as a small, scrappy operation to a long-standing web development partner focused on building lasting relationships and practical solutions. The piece highlights how the company’s core approach—staying grounded, building what works, and focusing on long-term value—has remained consistent even as the digital landscape evolves. It also touches on the current shift toward AI-driven search and how that is beginning to change how businesses are discovered and evaluated online.

Top WordPress Developers in Portland, Oregon (2026 Guide)

A look at some of the top WordPress development agencies in Portland, Oregon, including what sets them apart and what to consider when choosing a long-term web development partner for complex website and CMS projects.

Why Pantone’s “Cloud Dancer” Is the Perfect Starting Point for Website Design in 2026

Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer, is a soft off-white that signals clarity, calm, and creative potential. Here’s how to apply its minimalist message to website design — from choosing color palettes to enhancing user experience through thoughtful use of white space.

Generative Engine Optimization: Finding Our Way in the New Wild West

The way people discover information online is changing. Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) is reshaping how websites show up — not in lists of links, but in AI-generated conversations. At Cascade, we’re exploring what that means for design, structure, and storytelling, finding new ways to make sure your voice is heard in this next era of the web.

Why Good Design Feels Right

Good design doesn’t just look better — it feels better. The Aesthetic-Usability Effect explains why visually appealing experiences inspire trust, patience, and engagement. At Cascade, we see beauty and usability as inseparable—working together to make the web feel effortless and human.

Cascade's (Re)Fresh 👉 "Design & Development?"

We’re excited to announce a new chapter in our journey: we’re (informally) adding “Design” to our name, becoming Cascade Web Design & Development. This subtle yet powerful shift reflects our commitment to delivering beautifully crafted, high-performing websites under one cohesive roof. Our new identity underscores the growing importance of seamless collaboration between artful design and robust development. Keep reading to learn what this means for you, our valued clients.

Cascade's (Re)Fresh 👉 "The Cascade Brand"

We’re thrilled to share our brand refresh process with you! This isn’t just about a new look—it’s about showing who we are now and where we’re headed. We’ve taken a close look at our values and how we serve our clients, and we can’t wait to roll out these updates together.