Council launches new mobile website for phones and tablets
Thursday 16 February, 2012
Hornsby Council has launched a new mobile version of its website for iOS and Android-compatible phones and tablet computers including the Samsung Galaxy Tab and Apple iPhone and iPad. The site can be accessed at hornsbyshire.mobi.
Council has also announced that free wireless internet is now available throughout the Council Administration Building and Council Chambers in Hornsby. Free wireless is already available at Council’s libraries in Epping, Hornsby and Pennant Hills.
The mobile website has a simple interface for the public to access some of the most popular parts of Council’s full website including the library catalogue, updates on Development Applications and information about the Shire’s parks, sportsgrounds, community centres and swimming pools.
“Standard websites can be quite difficult to use on smart phones and tablets,” said Mayor Nick Berman. “We wanted to give the community improved access to our website when they’re on the move.”
A key feature of the new mobile website is a special function for residents to report a fault or issue such as a pothole or graffiti requiring attention using the global positioning system on their smart phone.
Approximately 12 percent of hits to Council's website over the last three months were received from mobile devices. In the last year, the site received more than 820,000 visits.
A link to the new mobile website has been posted on Council’s full website. In the coming weeks, the site will automatically detect compatible devices and give users the option to proceed to either the mobile or full website.
“This is a good example of how Council is working to better meet the changing needs of our community,” said Cr Berman.
The community is encouraged to provide feedback on the mobile website by emailing websupport@hornsby.nsw.gov.au.