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Having
offered information to its customers via instant SMS messaging for the
last twelve months, Lister Trade Frames
of Stoke on Trent has now taken customer communication to a new level
by allowing the company’s customers to get their quotes, order
confirmations and technical information anytime of the day or night,
seven days a week.
Customers can now go to their own private account area on Lister’s
web site to view and download production information and well as their
latest quotations.
Andrew
Lister, Lister’s Company Secretary and IT Director says that ‘This
is just one more step in our goal of making communication with Lister
as easy as possible for our customers. Our customers don't work just
nine to five. They can't always wait for the post and some may not have
fax machines. So now they can get access to all their quotes, confirmations
and technical information online whenever they want to - simply and
easily.’
Lister has already had good responses to its instant SMS messaging service
over the past year, but Andrew says that it's still no replacement to
seeing the full details of a document on screen including, bay layouts,
CAD drawings, base plans and glazing information.
‘We have been working very hard, writing our own PDF creation applications,
document scanning and archiving routines, and our own integrated MDI
software provides exactly the same information on-line for a customer
that they would get if it was posted to them. The benefit to the customer
is that he can access information whenever and wherever he wants to
and can update his requirements to us via email at the same time.
‘As society and business technologies move on, it's vital to stay
up to date by using these advancements to our customer's advantage.
While many customers are still content to have information posted, faxed
or collected in person, there is a new and technically aware customer
base, who not only expects this type of innovation, they demand it.
So woe to those who don't keep up!’
Tel: 01782 205605
Web: http://www.listertf.co.uk
TruSeal
Technologies, Inc. Launches Redesigned Web Site
Visitors
to www.TruSeal.com will notice a fresh new look. The Web site for TruSeal
Technologies, Inc., a specialist in warm edge spacer systems
for insulating glass (IG), now features enhanced navigation and updated
graphics.
Menu buttons have been moved to the left-hand side of the page and now
expand to show section contents. 'Mini ads' appear under the buttons
to promote noteworthy site offerings, providing users with quick access
to those sections. The ads currently highlight sections for ordering
spare tool parts, estimating sealant costs and requesting literature.
Showcasing TruSeal's product and manufacturing technology, the site's
home page displays an image of an IG unit made with the company's DuraSeal®
warm edge spacer. It rests on the application bed of sister company
Besten Equipment's TAPE-AT automated IG production line.
'TruSeal has updated its site to a more contemporary look in its design
and navigational structure. Visitors are able to move more effortlessly
from page to page. We will continue to enhance the site to improve its
quality of content and design,' said Pat Kreider, Advertising &
PR Specialist.
The TruSeal site offers a number of useful resources, including:
Product information for TruSeal's family of warm edge spacer products
and IG production equipment
A cost estimator designed to determine estimated savings by using Truseal
IG spacer technologies
Spare tool parts ordering for TruSeal hand application tools
Technical service bulletins
Product manuals and literature
Company news and published articles
For information about TruSeal's products, please visit the Web site
at http://www.TruSeal.com
or e-mail kreider@truseal.com.
Online
Ordering for Conservatory Outlet Customers
All
Conservatory Outlet customers now
have the benefit of online ordering. ‘Whether a full Conservatory
Outlet member or a trade sales customer, online ordering makes life
easier,’ explains Matthew Glover, Managing Director of Conservatory
Outlet.
‘Our customers enter one set of measurements for windows, doors,
patios and roofs, with the delivery date into the system and email it
to us. From this customers instantly get glass sizes, so glass can be
ordered at the same time, and they get the trade price. Having trade
prices available means customers can use this price for giving accurate
quotations. But the biggest benefit is that because only one set of
measurements is entered into the system, everything is manufactured
to the exact sizes ordered, so there's no room for error and whole process
is more efficient.’
ConservatoriesOnline.com
Reveals Increase in Internet Power
For
the first time eBuilders Ltd, which
operates the homeowners' conservatory advice web site www.conservatoriesonline.com,
has announced consumer viewing and activity statistics to offer a glimpse
of the growing power and influence of the Internet in the consumer decision-making
process.
Last year ConservatoriesOnline.com and its 'sister' sites directly generated
an estimated 100,000 plus confirmed sales leads for its sponsors and
advertisers. These comprised more than 37,500 conservatory related enquiries,
14,000 for replacement windows and, through the broader range of eBuilders
home improvement web sites more than 10,000 sales enquiries for kitchens.
In addition to making enquiries to suppliers directly through the eBuilders
web sites visitors also have the opportunity to click on a series of
links that take them through to the home web sites of advertisers and
sponsors. In a single year the company recorded an incredible 1 million
visitors that took advantage of this facility, resulting in an estimated
additional 50,000 sales leads.
The most striking aspect of the information revealed is the rise in
visitors, leads and referrals of up to 30% in some categories, which
is in stark contrast with window, door and conservatory industry trends,
which is estimated to be down by around 20% overall.
In particular consumers in the South East and Midlands would appear
still to have money to spend, with significant increases in conservatory-related
enquiries and one advertiser enjoying a 28% increase in sales leads.
Interest in ancillary products was also significantly up, in particular
for conservatory blinds and furniture.
However, the most spectacular success was enjoyed by a well-known national
supplier of windows, doors and conservatories which experienced an increase
of 30.65% for window enquiries compared with the previous year.
Barry Dunlop, Managing Director of eBuilders Ltd, believes the success
of his sites against the harsh trading conditions of the window, door
and conservatory market place will continue: ‘We have built our
websites to be search engine friendly with quality content that users
regard as authoritative and impartial that ensures that we consistently
show a high volume of leads amongst users. The excellent figures are
in line with the continuing trends for Internet usage overall, with
more than 28 million people - 60% of the UK population - having access
to the 'web, and 14 million online each day. The Internet is a key part
of the modern consumer's selection process.’
For more information on eBuilders Ltd/ConservatoriesOnline.com please
contact Barry Dunlop on 01903 856679, or email barry@ebuilders.co.uk.
Web: http://www.conservatoriesonline.com
Emplas
Windows - Going from Strength to Strength
Emplas
Windows
has now launched a new website to further extend its reach to its ever
growing customer base.
With the internet fast becoming the first choice research tool in the
industry, the new Emplas website has been designed to allow installers
to see Emplas' extensive product range - first hand - alongside a full
technical breakdown.
Not only does the Emplas site allow full access to all areas of the
company, but it also illustrates the complete range of support packages
on offer to the installer market that have been specifically designed
to help all Emplas customers maximise their businesses.
Commenting on its launch, Emplas' managing director Kevin Johnson said:
‘We at Emplas believe that it is important, not only to produce
and deliver the very best quality products every time, but to provide
all of our customers with a full consumer support service. We have put
all of our knowledge and experience into developing a support package
that will aid installers in driving their businesses forward, and our
new website promotes this further by giving them full access to our
business 24 hour a day.’
Web: http://www.emplas.co.uk
Hardware
specialist, Trojan Hardware and Designs,
has updated its corporate look with a new website.
Aesthetically, the new Trojan site offers an updated, modern format.
From a customer's point of view, the new site is as easy to navigate
as it is to view, with a redesigned navigation bar that simply takes
you from topic to topic at the touch of a button.
The website offers a complete overview of Trojan including the company’s
design-lead products, its manufacturing facilities, key personnel and
an up to date news section so customers can be kept abreast with all
the latest developments.
Furthermore, the site offers details of Trojan's custom manufacturing
and bespoke service support.
Commenting on the new site, Design Manager for Trojan Hardware and Designs,
Keith Dolman said: ‘We are all by now familiar with the success
of the 'e-revolution' and the benefits of a well-designed website. For
our customers, both existing and potential, the newly designed Trojan
website offers a myriad of information about our business and the products
we offer at the touch of a button. It is extremely user-friendly and
easy to navigate so users can browse the site with confidence whilst
gaining the information they require effortlessly'.
Web: http://www.trojan-hardware.com
Now
specifiers and contractors can access all the latest information on
CGI's comprehensive range of fire
and security glasses at the click of a mouse. The company's new website
at www.cgii.co.uk provides a one stop source of information for all
CGI customers and specifiers. Useful features include a helpful guide
to choosing the right fire glass and rating, a regularly updated section
on current Fire Safety Standards and down-loadable data sheets.
Starting
at the Home Page, visitors can locate the relevant pages for their particular
requirements using simple navigation icons. The options available range
from detailed company and product information to recent CGI press releases
highlighting new products and interesting case studies.
For those who aren't sure which fire glass they need, the website's
helpful Product Identifier matches CGI fire glasses to different integrity,
radiation control and insulation ratings. Visitors to the site who are
already familiar with the CGI range can view technical specifications
by clicking on the appropriate product, from the highly successful Pyroguard
range of fire resistant glasses to the fully insulated Fireswiss Foam.
The comprehensive certification of products covered by the CERTIFIRE
scheme can also be viewed on-line and down-loaded.
Enquiries or requests for further information can be sent directly to
the CGI team using the e-mail message form on the Contact Us page. In
addition, the website contains speedy hotlinks to some associated industry
sites such as the trade association, The Glass and Glazing Federation
and Warrington Fire Research, the Notified Testing and certification
organisation.
CGI's Sales and Marketing Director, Phill Millward, comments: ‘The
importance of our website is brought home to us daily, being visited
by UK and International visitors searching for a fire-glass solution.
The updated site now makes it easier to see our extensive range of fire
glasses - and shows in detail how they can be used.’
Tel: 020 7078 6660
Web: http://www.cgii.co.uk
E-newsletter
Launch from Wendland
Wendland
Roof Solutions has introduced a new online service for its
network of fabricators and installers. The Wendland e-newsletter is
a regularly updated communication channel, which allows the company
to inform its direct customers of new product development and innovations
before anyone else.
‘We have launched the e-newsletter to facilitate communication
on a two way level,’ comments Emma Perry of Wendland. ‘Not
only will this facility enable us to impart essential information to
our customers easily and quickly, but it allows our customers to communicate
with us on a personal level, informing us of any news or queries that
they may have on our conservatory and roofing products ranges.’
Wendland is committed to providing a service of open communication to
its existing customers and the e-newsletter is aimed at attracting potential
new customers. Customers can sign up to the free e-newsletter by emailing
Wendland's marketing executive Emma Perry at: emma_perry@wendland.uk.com.
For over ten years Wendland has been offering homeowners conservatories
that meet their needs and exceed their expectations. Supplying over
20,000 conservatories every year, Wendland has launched a number of
new products and initiatives, including the Styal+ conservatory. The
introduction of the Wendland e-newsletter is reflective of the company's
responsibility to customer service.
Daedalian
Website Newsletter Highlights Case Studies
Daedalian
Glass, the UK designer and manufacturer of architectural
glass projects, has expanded its website content with an electronic
newsletter.
Visitors to the company's website http://www.daedalian-glass.co.uk
can now sign on to receive the newsletter direct to their computers.
‘We're keeping it simple to start with,’ says Chris Walmsley,
sales and marketing director of the company, which is based at Poulton-le-Fylde,
Lancashire. ‘We're featuring a single case study of a specific
project in each issue. The first, for example, describes our work that
appeared at the RHS show at Tatton Park and our latest newsletter features
the Crystal Clear International project in Liverpool.
‘We expect the newsletter to expand, however, now that we have
a PR agency working with us. They will ensure it appears regularly and
with more variety in the content. However, we are all agreed that for
it to have relevance, the content will remain brief and to the point,
and not seek to fill space for the sake of it!
‘It's vitally important all our existing and potential customers
learn exactly what we can do and how well we can do it.’
By visiting the website and going to the Projects page, existing and
potential clients can, in fact, see images of a selection of projects
Daedalian has completed in recent months. These range from hotels, to
hospitals, to racecourses, to churches - and many others besides.
Tel: 01253 702531
Web: http://www.daedalian-glass.co.uk
DHF
sets the Hardware Standards
For
the first time, manufacturers of certain types of door-mounted safety
and security furniture and equipment will be able to rate the performance
of their products, thanks to a new Door and
Hardware Federation initiative.
The hardware group of the DHF has published three technical specifications
which set out the standards for the products. The technical specifications
are available on the DHF website http://www.dhfonline.org.uk.
It is expected that eventually, they will be developed into fully fledged
British Standards.
DHF members can now start rating their products against the minimum
requirements set out in the technical specifications, so ensuring that
specifiers will be able to differentiate high quality products from
inferior offerings.
Said DHF hardware technical committee chairman Malcolm White: 'Work
began on these technical specifications more than three years ago. We
were conscious that products such as door viewers and security chains
were referred to in other standards and codes of practice, yet there
was no official guidance to indicate what level of performance they
should achieve.
'So we decided to develop our own industry standard to enable our members
to demonstrate that their products meet, and in most cases, exceed,
accepted minimum levels of performance and quality, thereby allowing
specifiers to make informed choices.
'The new technical specifications offer commercial benefit to our members
by helping to increase sales of quality products at the expense of substandard
products – some of which, quite frankly, are not worthy of the
confidence placed in them.'
The first technical specification is the Setting the Standards for Door
Mounted Anti-ligature Devices for Safety and Security Purposes Guide,
which covers door mounted furniture including load releasing devices
such as coat hooks, and fixed hardware devices such as thumb-turn operated
door locks and handles. This guide focuses on the level of performance
that products should achieve in order to ensure the safety of users,
especially those who are unsupervised in special care environments.
The Setting the Standards for Door Viewers Guide sets out minimum performance
levels (including viewing angle and clarity of vision) expected of all
types of door viewers which allow occupants to detect and identify callers.
The Setting the Standards for Door Opening Restrictors for Security
Purposes Guide covers all forms of door opening restrictors, in particular
door chains and limiters, designed to keep callers at bay whilst still
permitting sufficient door opening to assist identification and allow
conversation. It sets out demanding levels of performance to combat
known methods of attack, so that products conforming to this technical
specification can be specified with absolute confidence.
Tel: 01827 52337
Web: http://www.dhfonline.org.uk
Albert
Equipment UK Launches New Website
Albert
Equipment UK
has recently made publicly available for the first time its new website,
via which potential and existing customers are able to view and download
information of the complete Albert Equipment UK product range.
The site, which can be found at http://www.albertequipment.co.uk,
is designed to inform and interest UK prospects by offering information
in their own language. ‘Up until now we have used the corporate
Belgian site, which although packed with useful data wasn't really tailored
necessarily to the UK and Irish markets’ says Damien Pooley, Product
Manager with Albert Equipment UK. ‘We have found that people wanted
as much information as possible from a site with a true UK feel that
also reflects the relationship between Albert Equipment SA in Belgium
and its partner the Skan Group here in the UK’.
Any further information regarding Albert Equipment UK can be obtained
by telephoning 0121 7333003, faxing 0121 7331030, emailing sales@albertequipment.co.uk
or visiting the new website at http://www.albertequipment.co.uk.
New
Sales Tool for Masterframe's BPIs with Members-only Website
Masterframe
Windows Ltd,
specialist manufacturer of premium PVC-U sashes has created a 'members'
only' website for its Bygone Preferred Installers (BPI).
‘Our installers still get leads from the retail site
http://www.thebygonecollection.co.uk,’
observes Alan Burgess, Managing Director of Masterframe, ‘but the
new website http://www.bygonemembers.co.uk
is exclusively for those in the BPI network. Each installer has his
own password and can see how many leads come through the retail website,
which keywords work best and how well every company in the network achieves
its targets and goals. BPIs can also upload guides on sales techniques
and lead generation. It's another tool to help our customers sell more
easily and profitably.
‘We work closely with BPIs on our marketing campaigns, and they'll
be able to see where and when we advertise, and how successful it is.
There are also summaries of the regular Cranfield seminars, masterclasses
and any upcoming events and presentations.’
Tel: 01376 510410
Web: http://www.masterframe.co.uk
Swish
Window and Door Systems
has launched a new look consumer website to drive sales for its range
of low maintenance PVC-U windows and doors and create leads for fabricators
and installers.
http://www.swishwindows.co.uk
is a consumer facing web portal, allowing the general public to access
up to the minute information on Swish products and get practical, unbiased
advice on home improvements.
The site also allows consumers to enquire about a range of Swish products,
with leads generated online automatically passed on to Swish authorised
fabricators and installers.
To make sure consumers can easily find the site when web browsing, Swish
has invested in sophisticated search engine optimisation.
The site will also feature a range of special offers, giving customers
seasonal discounts on a number of Swish products. The first offer gives
homeowners £100 off a purchase of windows or doors.
Paul Lindsay, general manager of Swish, says: 'Swish Windows and Door
Systems is a trusted brand with over 50 years of heritage. While we
retain our traditional brand values of quality and service, it is important
that we continue to invest and innovate to make sure the future is bright
for Swish and its customers.'
For further information visit http://www.swishwindows.co.uk
or Tel: 01455 555330
New
Website Keeps GU Online for Customers 24/7
The
hardware manufacturer, GU, has launched
a new website which offers in-depth information on its complete products
- 24/7. The site at www.g-u.co.uk is the place to get expert applications
advice and installation tips for GU brands - instantly.
Anyone involved in the design or specification of window and doors,
from fabricators to architects, will find http://www.g-u.co.uk
invaluable. Packed with data and illustrations, it covers the complete
GU range of window fittings, door fittings and automatic entry systems.
It also contains all the technical information needed for fabricators
and specifiers to select, specify and fit the right product for the
job. They can even download product/installation drawings; order the
latest product catalogue and access a list of GU distributors and members
of the Sold Secure scheme.
The site features on-line installation guides to many products including
advice on fitting keepers, casement shoot bolts, cylinder bolt handing
and night latch handing. New products are being added all the time as
the website is continually being updated.There are also links to GU
companies and activities worldwide, including guidance on industry issues
such as barrier-free construction; escape door systems and contract
doors.
‘The new and improved www.g-u.co.uk is designed specifically to
benefit GU customers,’ says Ian Ward, GU's marketing manager. ‘It's
been developed directly from research into what they wanted from a hardware
website, from sales literature to fitting guides.’
http://www.g-u.co.uk
New
Total Glass Commercial Website
At
www.tgcommercial.com specifiers, architects and Public Sector buyers
have access to all the information they require when choosing a reliable,
knowledgeable and experienced window and door supplier. Total
Glass Commercial provides compliant Part L windows and composite
doors to Best Value criteria and works to deliver a sustainable approach
to open partnerships.
Its re-designed, easy-to-navigate website contains details on the extensive
product portfolio, manufactured from the quality, highly-specified Profile
22 profile, as well as comprehensive services for Public Sector professionals
from project concept to completion. TG Commercial's sustainability plans
embrace all environmental, social and economic policies which are fully
explained within dedicated sections on the website, from its approach
to Partnering and Sustainability to Decent Homes.
Further information, including a Specification Guide and downloadable
brochures, can also be found at www.totalglass.com. Contact Stuart Waring
on 0151 549 2 339 or visit the websites at:
http://www.totalglass.com/
http://www.tgcommercial.com.
A
fresh new website dedicated to the branded reflex
conservatory glass product has now gone live. In readiness for this
year's Glassex and with updated product brochures, the site is informative
for domestic retail customers who can buy through one of the authorised
distributors listed on the site.
The company claims that the success of reflex has been down to continual
product development and innovation within an outdated market. ‘In
the past suppliers have only been guided by large PLC glass manufacturers.
Now this has changed and the market has matured with fragmented installers
and fabricators. Customers are looking for something different to stand
out from the crowd who all offer the same basic self cleaning glass
with basic guarantee period and basic spacer bar.
‘Reflex features some of the latest coating technology and is a
true solar control product with unbeatable service and back up.’
Visit http://www.reflexglass.co.uk for distributors and product updates.
Goldweld
- Teflon® Coated Welding Fabric - Online Shop
Goldweld.co.uk
is a new online shop selling Teflon® (PTFE) coated welding fabrics
directly to PVC-U window, door and conservatory fabricators. The e-commerce
shop has been set up by Biscor Ltd, Bradford based manufacturers of
PTFE coated fabrics, to appeal directly to the end-user of the material,
rather than by selling via distributors and agents. The company says
that Goldweld has been known within the industry for some time, hence
the decision to build the brand and awareness of the product. As the
customer buys direct from the manufacturer, they will receive value
as well as service. The site has a wealth of features including the
facility to manage your own account area and view past orders and the
status of current orders.
Goldweld is manufactured by Biscor Ltd, an expert in the PTFE coating
sector. (PTFE is polytetrafluouroethylene which is the chemical name
for the DuPont™ brand Teflon®). Biscor Ltd is based in Bradford,
West Yorkshire, and has been coating process fabrics for nearly 30 years.
Biscor's markets include many industries from food processing to aerospace
and practically everything in between.
The online shop http://www.goldweld.co.uk
will allow the PVC-U door, window or conservatory fabricator, to purchase
Goldweld online 24 hours a day, pay safely and securely by credit card
and receive a roll of Goldweld the next day. ‘No matter how much
experience of the Internet one may have, the online shop is easy to
use,’ says the company. ‘Visiting the site itself will be
an informative experience, download technical data for Goldweld and
Goldweld Adhesive, read about the product uses and also enjoy our 3D
movie of a window welding machine using Goldweld.
Over the following months Goldweld.co.uk will be expanding its range
of products as customers provide their machine requirements. ‘It
is our aim to have the most extensive range of machine make and model
specific die cut sleeves and belts or bands available within our product
library and we ask you, the PVC-U welder to help us to do this - and
in turn help yourself,’ says the company. ‘By telling us through
the website registration process about your machines, we in turn offer
you an introductory 10% discount on your first order. We will liaise
by email to ensure we have the correct dimensions for your machine and
from then on, the product will be available to buy on line.’
Goldweld.co.uk will be exhibiting at the Glassex 2006 exhibition at
the NEC in March.
For further information visit http://www.goldweld.co.uk
or call 0800 731 148.
www.truesash.co.uk
is Online Answer to Affordable Sash Windows
A
new on-line company, www.truesash.co.uk says that it is set to provide
customers with high quality sash windows, that capture all the style
and appeal of traditional wooden windows, yet avoid many of the associated
pitfalls - including warping, rotting and annual maintenance.
Made to bespoke requirements by skilled craftsmen, TrueSash's range
of PVCu replacement sash windows claim to offer a modern upgrade to
old wooden windows, while reducing the cost to the customer.
The new company, whose headquarters will be in Bradford, West Yorkshire,
has been developed with the sole purpose of offering customers the opportunity
to fit or replace sash windows in homes that are either traditional
or modern in build, without ‘breaking the bank’. The website
will feature a collection of natural home situations to browse rather
than posed photography.
http://www.truesash.co.uk
is now live in the New Year after a period of research and development
carried out by Leeds-based EHS Brann, which was involved in the creative
process, including the brand development of the logo and full website
design.
The specialised research and web site development agency had been employed
to target the perceived thinking and buying habits of the consumer,
particularly through the internet.
With research showing that many people were replacing original sash
windows with standard double glazed windows due to concerns over cost,
www.truesash.co.uk offers an easy and attractive website which showcases
affordable windows to those on a budget.
Richard Baird, Senior Business Consultant for www.truesash.co.uk explained:
‘The Leeds agency has helped us to identify an important gap in
a highly competitive market by pinpointing the misplaced conception
that replacing or installing sash windows is very expensive.
‘Utilising Pilkington K Glass and complying with all Building Regulations,
we are offering six different models of high quality sash window. All
orders are backed up by a 10 year guarantee and unrivalled standards
of manufacture and installation. Our aim is to enhance any property
in terms of both character and value,’ concluded Richard.
Sanjit Gill, Head of Client Services at EHS Brann, added: ‘Right
from the beginning our involvement meant we were tied into what our
target consumers were thinking. As a result we have been able to develop
a website that not only addresses a need but communicates the message
in the right way. We are confident we have developed a website which
is different and informative and, importantly, will stand out from the
competition.’
Tel: 0800 731 2011
Web: http://www.truesash.co.uk
The
UK's Most Comprehensive Roofline Range Consumer Website goes Live
To
support GAP's launch of Homeline,
the comprehensive roofline system, the new Homeline website is now live.
‘The Homeline system includes the widest range of roofline styles
and designs available in woodgrain and colour, with ancillaries too,’
explains Simon Bird, GAP's Joint Managing Director.
‘The Homeline range is available from January 6th exclusively from
all eleven branches of GAP - but you can get a sneak preview by logging
onto http://www.homeline.uk.com.
The site is designed for both domestic and trade users. We understand
installers need more sophisticated marketing tools and with Homeline
our customers get what they need for the homeowner.
‘The website gives customers all the information they need about
the benefits of installing maintenance free roofline, and explains what
makes a good installation. There is also a comprehensive roofline gallery
to show different styles and colours. The marketing support doesn't
stop at the website. Professionally designed end user brochures, specific
adverts and drop leaflets form part of the package too.’
Tel: 01254 682888
New
Website Design Division for Purplex
In
response to client requests, Purplex Business
Solutions, the business, marketing and peak performance consultant
for the window industry, has launched RealFusion, a new website design
division.
Commenting on the move Managing Partner Andrew Scott said ‘Most
websites are designed by computer nerds or graphic designers who do
not understand our industry or effective marketing. This is a real problem
when creating a dynamic, integrated marketing strategy. RealFusion was
specifically set up to solve this problem, creating websites from a
marketing rather than a technical viewpoint.’
Purplex Business Solutions provides comprehensive business and marketing
consultancy for ambitious companies hungry for growth, together with
training and support services.
Contact Purplex on 0870 062 5318 or visit online at http://www.purplex.uk.com.
For information on web design visit RealFusion at http://www.realfusion.co.uk.
D
R Services Leads the Way with Glass on New Web Site
The
sophistication of modern glazing, with its many uses in the retail premises
market, public spaces, offices, and showers and bathrooms, is illustrated
by D R Services on its new web site
at www.drservices.co.uk.
While featuring a number of interactive installation examples, highlighting
the design potential of modern glazing, the new web site is, nonetheless,
uncluttered and very easy to navigate.
Among the interactive examples is D R Services' latest product, Priva-Lite,
a laminated glass with electrical conductors along one or two edges
that is translucent when switched off and clear when switched on. Ideal
applications are as discreet divider walls particularly in security
installations. The glass can be synchronised with cameras so that the
camera can see through the glass even when the eye cannot.
In addition to Product Installations, the site features Electric Glass,
Balustrades, Canopies, Furniture, Showers and Cubicles, Sliding and
Folding Doors. D R Services operates nationwide from its offices and
workshops in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire.
Specifiers, designers, architects and estimators, whether existing or
potential customers, will appreciate the information, which, when taken
as a whole gives a comprehensive overview of D R Services' activities.
From its premises in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, D R Services provides
clients with a complete service, comprising an on-site survey; glass
cutting, etching and sandblasting; a wide range of hinges, weather and
water seals, locks, catches, pivots and patches; and a team of experts
for on-site fitting and installation.
Tel: 01992 447122
Email: info@drservices.co.uk
Web: http://www.drservices.co.uk
Take
one 26 year old exhibition dedicated to the UK window, door and conservatory
industry, mix in around 150 exhibitors, a large pinch of new products
and services, a couple of seminar programmes, some fun events, and mix
well. Next, add anything up to 10,000 window, door and conservatory
specifiers, manufacturers and installers, and bake for four days in
Halls 7 and 8 at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre and what have
you got?
Actually you have one of the international glazing industry's most successful
and consistent exhibitions; but also potentially sore feet and, by the
end of the day, slightly wilting shoulders. For 2006 however, the boffins
at Glassex have introduced a brand new service designed to miraculously
reduce foot wear and tear and keep visitors' heads up by allowing them
to create their very own Glassex Show Guide. And before they get anywhere
near Glassex check out the companies and products that they specifically
want to see marked on a map, and lists of any related seminars and even
press releases.
This remarkable feature is creatively named 'Plan your visit' and appears
on the Glassex website (http://www.glassex.com).
It allows visitors to create their own catalogue, and in effect their
own exhibition simply by checking a few boxes. Once at the website click
on 'Visiting', then 'Plan Your Visit'. Fill in the bits you're interested
in - machinery, windows, hardware and so forth, press 'Search' and it's
as if the Fairy Godmother of exhibition visitors had waved her magic
direction indicator.
A little map and a list pop up with all of the exhibitors marked that
are showing the products you are interested in, followed by a list,
and such information as relevant press releases, seminars and all sorts
of other little gimmicks that allow you to research the event before
you even think about how to get there. Even if you don't intend to go
to Glassex try it out - it's great fun and, Glassex is the first British
exhibition to use it.
Glassex Marketing Manager Claire Shilling is feeling quite pleased with
herself: ‘This really is a clever feature, and Glassex is the first
British trade exhibition ever to have offered anything like this. It
will remove all of that initial confusion that we all experience when
we first walk into an exhibition, and in seeking out key potential suppliers,
any of whom you may never have previously heard of, it will be invaluable.
Using the Plan Your Visit feature coupled with registering in advance
could save visitors hours.’
The appropriately named Arran Coole, boss of ASP Events which developed
the Glassex web site with the Plan Your Visit feature, put things into
perspective: ‘The Glassex team has always been highly pro-active
in seeking better and more efficient solutions for its exhibitors and
visitors, and they have been very enthusiastic in taking up this feature.
It offers very tangible benefits to its users. This really is a very
advanced feature.’
http://www.glassex.com
In
its continuing drive to improve customer service, Spectus
Window Systems has now made all its technical data sheets
available online for customers through the Spectus web-site. The development
allows instant access to this detailed information whenever needed.
‘Printed information is still available for customers, of course,’
observes Marketing Manager Gareth Griffin ‘but the online version
is definitely easier as it is always to hand.’ Individual technical
details, parts descriptions or simple stock reference numbers can be
individually downloaded and printed off if necessary.
This small but significant development is an illustration of Spectus'
ongoing commitment to improving customer service - a programme of activity
that has continued unaffected by the company's recent change of ownership
and which is fully supported by parent company the Latium Group.
http://www.spectus.co.uk
A Site for Sore Eyes!
Senior Aluminium Systems has launched a site for sore web eyes.
Cleaner, fresher and faster than before, http://www.senioraluminium.co.uk aims to provide an efficient working tool for busy professionals looking for instant information.
'We wanted an on-line presence that has real value with quick access to relevant information,' says SAS sales and marketing director Steve Wightman.
Clearly aimed to provide a speedy solution for industry specialists, the new-look site has home page links that whisk building designers, contractors and fabricators/installers straight through to their own individually tailored page on the site.
It also features a product matrix for an at-a-glance summary of the entire SAS product range with more detailed information on each, plus downloadable technical spreadsheets.
Skipton-based QDK constructed the new site which also offers a gallery of case studies that demonstrate how good the end product looks in-situ with recent projects featured with full photography.
'Importantly we have ensured that the site will be constantly updated and refreshed with latest information,' says Steve Wightman, 'and we have also invested in vital key word research to ensure the site remains highly visible to anyone looking for information about the kind of products and services we provide.'
Titon Part F Information Website Launched
'Building Regulations overload? Don't worry, let's clear the air about Part F.' says Titon. 'From home builders to local authorities, ALMO's to architects, every case is different. When there are several solutions to one problem it makes selecting a tough job.'
The Titon Part F Information Website provides up to date information on the introduction of, and compliance with, the revision to Approved Document (Part) F Ventilation.
The interim Part F published on the ODPM website on the 13th of September (which is still subject to change) adopts a different approach from the existing regulation it is replacing and addresses changes in lifestyle and environment. The new regulations both Parts L & F should come into effect on the 6th of April 2006.
The new interim Part F has been welcomed by domestic ventilation specialist Titon.
Vent Division Director Nick Howlett said 'We are particularly pleased to see the new performance based approach which encourages innovative products which can supply the required levels of performance.'
The content will link to case studies and product pages on the Titon website. Fact Pages on topics such as acoustics, Part L and testing will be published, as well as a list of FAQs built up as we answer queries from customers and specifiers.
Web: http://www.partf.co.uk
Leading
Trading Association Sets up SMEs with the Resources to Win Government
Business
The
UK Trades Confederation (UKTC)
has made a financial investment in its members by offering them free
e-commerce websites with email facilities. In addition UKTC members
automatically receive first level accreditation status through a recent
alliance with Exor Management Services.
Contrary to the recent report published by the Department for Trade
and Industry that reveals that half a million jobs in England may be
at risk because of the 2005 Government e-procurement initiative, UKTC's
10,000 members are being supplied with a free e-commerce website and
email facilities to win government business.
Members will also benefit by qualifying for bronze level entry into
the Public Sector market at no extra cost as the UKTC has aligned their
membership vetting procedure to meet the criteria set out by Exor Management
Services for first level accreditation.
Derek Vaughan, Managing Director of UKTC says:
'We have made huge financial investments into making sure our members
have the resources needed to win Government business. I think it is
hard enough for SMEs to survive let alone try and find funding for websites
and email facilities which to my knowledge is not available. I also
believe our new alliance with Exor Management Services means our 10,000
members will increase the amount of small businesses for Local Authorities
to engage into supplier contracts as they are bronze accredited and
able to trade electronically.'
UKTC members' e-commerce website and email facilities are free of host
and design charges and have been especially designed to be completely
user-friendly. SMEs are able to trade online, print letter headed stationery
and receive business leads electronically.
For further information contact The UK Trades Confederation on 0800
018 4442 or email mail@uktc.org or
visit http://www.uktc.org