Web-wise residents get more online

MORE THAN 100 Sentinel Housing Association customers have helped redesign the Hampshire landlord's new website, which is now live.

Residents took up the challenge to overhaul Sentinel's old website by filling in surveys, attending focus groups, and test-driving the new version.

Jean Poolton of Yateley said: "It's fab. I just love the simplicity of it. It's so easy to find anything you need, the information is very clear and easy to understand. It's been great being one of the first to try it out."

Sentinel customers can continue to pay online, check their statements online, and report repairs online. New features include more local community news, easier feedback, videoclips, and improved translation service. More features will be added in the next six months to encourage more customers to take advantage of going paperless.

Communications Manager Steve Murphy said: "Listening to the comments from our customers has been invaluable in helping us put together a user-friendly site that will help people get more from us online. "

The move follows a recent revamp of Sentinel's customer magazine - Spirit - which saw 900 customers get involved in the makeover.

Both projects were managed by the Escape design agency, and Account Director Rob Jones said: "We have been working with Sentinel for the past six years on tactical projects across a range of services.

"Working closely with residents' and the Sentinel's communications team ensured we delivered a design that met the customers needs without losing the corporate message. We look forward to developing the site further with additional functionality and ongoing marketing".