New website puts customers first

West Berkshire Council launches its new look website next week, featuring a re-designed home page and an improved search facility...

The changes, which were mainly developed in-house, should help visitors to the site find the
information they need quickly and easily.

The search facility has been updated so typing a valid planning or building
application number in the search box will take you straight to that
application.  You can also enter a West Berkshire postcode and be taken
straight to information about the property and its location.

Traditionally, government websites have been structured around the
organisation but this new website breaks from this convention by putting
customers needs first.

David Betts, West Berkshire Executive Councillor for ICT said: “With the
wide availability of home broadband connections and cheaper computer
systems, more people than ever are going online. It is essential therefore,
that we make sure you can easily find information or advice on our site. I
am very pleased with the new look and the re-designed search facility is a
great improvement.”

Web Development Manager, Phil Rumens commented: “We have been listening to
what people have been telling us through our website survey and as a result
we have made the site more customer friendly, and easier to use.  This is
part of our ongoing development of the website to meet the needs of our
residents.”

As part of the launch the Council is setting up a new Customer Consultation
Group which will advise on various aspects of the website.  If you feel that
you could help to shape the development of the council’s website and would
like to be considered then please complete the form which can be found at
www.westberks.gov.uk/customerconsultation.

Source: West Berkshire council