Top 20 spot for our website

6 March 2008

This website has been named amongst the best council websites in the country by government technology experts.

The site was reviewed by members of the watchdog Socitm (the society of information and technology management) towards the end of 2007.

Socitm produces its findings in an annual report called Better Connected which “assesses the quality of the experience that members of the public are likely to have when engaging with local government through a website”.

Assessors judged every local authority website and concluded that Rochdale has one of the “20 most developed council sites nationwide.”

We are an example of good practice

The site was also judged to be a “transactional” site with “excellent” content – a ranking given to only 16 other councils. This is the first time Rochdale has been ranked so highly and reflects the recent effort by us to improve online services.

The assessors also said our interactive mapping facility and different navigations techniques were examples of good practice that other councils should follow.

Councillor Keith Swift, executive member for townships and corporate management, said the achievement was particularly good considering the huge numbers of people now using council sites.

He said: “To be named as a provider of one of the most developed council websites reflects the hard work the officers have put in to make our site one of the best in country and shows the commitment of council members in improving online services for our residents.

I hope many more local people will start will realise how convenient our website is and use it more.”

The site can be used to access the council’s 800+ services. People can pay bills online, renew library books and even apply for benefits and school places.

What do you think?

Is this website meeting your needs?

Email your comments, compliments and suggestions to: web.team@rochdale.gov.uk