By Bernard Kradjian, Communications Coordinator, APGO

While the internet has undoubtedly become one of life’s necessities, the APGO has realized the need for a strong online presence to accommodate our valued members, councillors and the public. The APGO recently celebrated the launch of our new website – one that offers a fresh design, user friendliness, compatibility and advanced features that enhance the online capabilities of our visitors.

The first step was to map out a website that effectively identified and organized the appropriate data because one of the association’s key functions as an organization is to compile, store, and deliver information. The outcome included easy to use pull-down menus that compartmentalize content into their appropriate sections. Information is now easier to access, the navigational experience is enhanced, and services are more readily obtainable.

Feedback from users has been very positive. Among many things, the new website has been praised for its attention grabbing home page and the quality content it provides. The homepage features photo slides, provided by APGO members, as well as shortcuts to timely news and key features. The site targets audiences of different age groups and backgrounds; among these are the internationally trained, university students, teachers and even elementary school children aspiring to become future geoscientists.

Perhaps the most notable change, however, is the website’s technical functionalities. It is no longer just HTML based and a significant part now functions in a portal environment. This use of database technology puts us in line with a new generation of automated websites. A user can now securely register online, make payments that are processed in “real-time,” update personal information and even participate in discussion forums. This new drive for customization and community features keeps users coming back regularly to acquire useful information, communicating with both the organization and one another. The association has essentially developed a member management system that is time saving, secure, and interactive.

A strong online presence has become a priority for the APGO. It is not solely the new design and content that makes this achievable but also our ways of promoting these new attributes. Through communication efforts, the APGO sees the importance of and works towards higher search engine ratings by taking part in a tapestry of linked websites and by making regular content updates. These content updates will be an ongoing effort to ensure user satisfaction.

The association would like to thank Bill Pearson, P.Geo. for his generous contribution toward the development of the new website. Such support and dedication by APGO members allows the association to strive to be the leader of geoscience professions; and to provide the public and members with quality service and products.

If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions regarding the website, please contact: bkradjian@apgo.net.