VS Code: a launch-ready marketing site and docs gateway

Visual Studio Code needed a refreshed web experience that matched the polish of the editor. We focused on a clear value story, faster page loads, and tighter links into docs and marketplace content.

Client goals

1. Clarify the product story for new users (why VS Code vs. other editors).
2. Reduce drop-off on download and onboarding flows.
3. Connect users to extensions, docs, and releases with fewer clicks.
4. Ship a maintainable design system to support weekly updates.

What we delivered

1. Narrative-first landing
   Hero, proof, and “choose your stack” sections that lead directly to tailored downloads.
2. Extension highlights
   Dynamic cards pulling top extensions by category with quick-install links.
3. Lightweight docs entry
   Curated “first 10 minutes” docs, keyboard shortcuts, and release notes surfaced on-page.
4. Performance pass
   Image optimization, code-splitting, and a lean component library for faster TTI.

Results

1. +14% download completion after simplifying the CTA path and adding stack presets.
2. More engagement with extensions: category cards drove more installs per visit.
3. Faster publishing: the new component library let the team ship weekly updates without design debt.

The VS Code site now tells a tighter story, moves users to action, and keeps them discovering the ecosystem.