Our news websites have been updated with modern designs to enhance the experience for users as part of a drive to increase digital engagement.
The layouts of our news brand sites have been modernised to improve visits across all devices and to reduce page loading times as the first step in a programme to further update our digital offerings.
Working in partnership with leading web content specialists Bright Sites, the implementation is part of a strategy to improve user experience to invite people to return regularly and spend more time enjoying our unique ultra local content.
The homepages have been given “cleaner” designs, navigation has been improved and subtle improvements have been made to make visiting the websites easier for audiences.
Tindle publishes trusted local brands in key locations across Surrey, Hampshire, the South West, Wales and the Isle of Man, with print and digital brands including Isle of Man Today, Cambrian News, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley Review, Cornish Times and Farnham Herald.
Group IT director Dean Cooper, who delivered the project with colleagues in editorial, said: “This is the first step in a programme of ongoing enhancements, enrichment and improvement which will be coming across our services in the coming months.
“The ‘refresh’ of the websites is the first step in reshaping our digital websites to have a renewed, more modern look and feel, providing a more engaging experience and the same quality feel which our print products have always readers.
“These first enhancements make it easier for customers to get into our content quickly and to make usage easier on both mobile and desktop devices.
“We have also worked on improving the overall performance of our service which will mean that the content is shown quicker and enjoyed sooner.”
Dean joined the company in the summer to oversee computer systems, networks and security, including managing hardware and software and supporting the expansion of digital platforms.
Dean previously worked for a leading ferry operator, a care home group and shared services provider Delt, where he was involved in the roll-out of the Covid-19 vaccines by overseeing booking systems. He also led digital transformation for the Discovery Channel and leading High Street retailer Primark.
Managing Director Scott Wood said: “Building upon our reputation as a community publisher with trusted ultra local news, updating our websites enables us to provide the digital services which local readers and businesses expect as the way they get their news and information continues to change.”