EOH Microsoft Coastal recently launched the new V&A Waterfront Web site. The V&A Waterfront is one of Africa's most-visited destinations, both for local and international visitors, and the Web site receives hundreds of thousands of visits on a monthly basis in search of information that enables visitors to take advantage of what this prestigious venue has to offer.
The V&A Waterfront is a mixed-used destination the size of 180 rugby fields. With more than 450 retailers, more than 80 eateries, 10 hotels, a marina, an active fishing industry, 20 leisure tenants, an aquarium, a fresh food market, 16 500 people who work here on a daily basis, and 24 million people who visit annually, the Web site is an essential business tool that needs to house reams of information in an accessible manner.
The Web site showcases this landmark destination and features a responsive design for touch-screens, mobile devices, tablets and laptops, as well as being PC compatible. The V&A did not want to duplicate information to an app and therefore decided on responsive design. It analysed devices used to browse its previous site, and recognised the importance of being able to access info from one's mobile.
Nicholas Leck, Head of the SharePoint division, says: "It is important that the Web site always reflects current events at the Waterfront alongside the most recent products and services. Schedules, restaurant menus, entertainment, tours and retailers are constantly changing to keep up with global tourism trends and the Web site caters for the rapid change of information."
Pivotal to the success of this system is the underlying digital asset management system and search-driven navigation. The new 2013 version of SharePoint harnesses Google-like search power, but delivers the results in an easily digestible layout. Search results include pictures and related information for mobile and big-screen users.
Chantelle Cole, Strategic Marketing Executive for the V&A Waterfront, says: "We have kept our visitors at the centre of all decisions made with regards to the new Web site, from responsive design, to site layout and user experience. The result is not only a refreshed design, but a Web site that delivers a mix of consumer and business information in a clear, concise manner."
The new updated Web site has also given the V&A control and flexibility in making updates to the content, which can change frequently. The Web site content management system that is used to make changes is simple and easy to use, and this means that adding and updating information is straightforward for the V&A. It can keep its site up to date without needing to call someone every time it needs a change - it's simply a case of logging in and adding the content to the smart templates developed for V&A by EOH Microsoft Coastal.
The V&A Waterfront chose Microsoft SharePoint 2013 as its Web site content management system because of its flexibility and ease-of-use. This robust simplicity ultimately results in the end-user having a pleasant and engaging visiting experience, with up-to-date content.
Brian Harding, MD of EOH Microsoft Coastal, says: "We have enjoyed a long and proud association with the Waterfront, and have been handling their IT requirements for some years. This latest development is another step in our partnership to make the Waterfront not only the premier destination, but also a leader in using technology to maximise the experience of their customers."
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