iSEV has just been selected, amongst stiff competition, to complete a total redesign of the Shropshire Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise website.

We presented a fresh and innovative multi-media website design based firmly on user accessibility and functionality. ‘We approached the project as experienced website designers but also as Chamber members, so were able to combine the technical requirements with an awareness of the end-user experience’ explained Creative Director of iSEV, Leon Blair.

The team was asked to create a site which would attract additional new members but also reduce the administrative burden currently on the Chamber’s in-house team, however iSEV’s solution went significantly further. As well as a password-protected members’ only area where chamber member details could be accessed and amended, a member-to-member testimonial system which allows prospective customers to see if other members have used an organisation’s services was proposed, and even a function where videos will be played in real time was included.

‘The new site will be fully interactive and ever-changing thanks to a comprehensive content management system, so customers can book and pay for training and events online, take part in polls and surveys, and even access a members forum where they can do business, share leads and seek advice and guidance’ explained Leon. ‘There is a wealth of talented businesses in the area, and the new site will allow them all to work much closer together and access even faster support from the Chamber’s expert team’ he added.

Other features of the new site will include online access to the Business Matters magazine, a frequently changing news section, a training and events calendar and even a photo gallery. ‘The focus is very much on the end user and accessibility for all’ explained Leon. ‘We’ve worked for organisations like the Walsall Society for the Blind, and the unique insight we were given through these projects has allowed us to ensure that the Chamber’s new site will engage effectively with all users, especially those who are partially sighted or blind’.

Shropshire Chamber took the decision to award the prestigious contract to iSEV after an in-depth pitch process. ‘We were certainly impressed with both iSEV’s proven track record of delivering innovative and successful websites which met challenging briefs, and their infectious enthusiasm and obvious passion for the project’ explained Richard Sheehan, Managing Director of Shropshire Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise. ‘We’re very much looking forward to them starting work on the new site and hope to have it live later this year.’