Preparations underway for launch of new council website

The website is often the first place citizens, visitors and local organisations turn to for help, information or to access important public services. Designed with users in mind, the upgraded site will replace the current platform, which has been in place since 2018.

Benefits of new, improved site

The redesign has been shaped by feedback from users of the current website, who highlighted the need for improvements to the search function and their experience when downloading documents.

The new site has been built around what residents need most, offering:

• Easier navigation to key services
• A significantly improved search function
• A cleaner, less cluttered design
• Faster access to commonly used information.

By improving how quickly users can find what they need, we hope to create a smoother overall customer experience. User testing on the new site has provided positive feedback ahead of its launch.

One of the biggest changes is a move away from downloadable PDFs, which many users found inconvenient. Documents will now open directly in web browsers, meeting accessibly standards and improved sustainability by reducing the need for unnecessary downloads.

Key points for website users to be aware of

When the new website launches, there are a few important things to be aware of:

• The website will look different from the current version
• Bookmarked pages may no longer work and will need updating
• Search results from Google will lead to updated or moved pages.

Ultimately, the improved layout will make content easier to find once users become familiar with the new system.

Council Leader Norman Hampshire said:

"With a clearer design, improved functionality and a focus on accessibility, the new website aims to help make it easier for residents to connect with the council and get the services they need - quickly and efficiently. It represents a major step forward in how East Lothian Council delivers digital services.

"It's part of our wider 'digital by default' approach, aiming to make more services available online and achieve an improved experience for East Lothian residents."

Background

The site is being delivered using LocalGov Drupal, a more sustainable and flexible platform.

Benefits include:

• Reduced need for future system migrations
• Lower long-term costs
• Improved functionality for council services
• Opportunities to introduce features such as online chat

A Web Strategic Oversight Group - made up of council web editors - has played a key role in shaping the new platform. Acting as both experts and ambassadors, the group has helped ensure the site meets the needs of both services and residents.