Town of Banff

Banff.ca Exceeds One-Year Goals

January 17, 2008

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Banff.ca exceeds goals one-year after launch

Banff, AB – One year after launch the Town of Banff is pleased to announce its website at Banff.ca is exceeding expectations and outperforming goals set for the site pre-launch in January, 2007. Site usage has increased by over 2000 per cent, residents say the site is useful (2007 Community Resident Satisfaction Survey) and staff confirms the site is saving them time, as they are now able to redirect basic information requests.

"We are really happy with the performance of the site," says Banff.ca Web Administrator Kevin Elliott. "We are now getting 8,000 to 10,000 page views per day, and feedback from users is very positive."

The site was initially developed to provide users with an insiders look at Banff, provide easy access to municipal information and quick links to organizations like Parks Canada or Banff Lake Louise Tourism.

Since launch, the Town has:

• Used the site (through online surveys) to gain resident input on issues such as the proposed Recreation Centre and Pedestrian Bridge, new bylaws, housing, and commercial development.
  

• Added a selection of YouTube-hosted videos about Banff to the website (May), including videos made by Town of Banff that provide municipal info with an "alternative" twist.
  

• Added (August) Interactive Maps using Google Maps technology. This includes a selection of interactive maps showing both street plans and satellite imagery, pinpointing geographic data in Banff including accommodation, attractions, trails, parking and recycling facilities, with embedded links to additional information.
  

• Launched the Banff Insider newsletter (June) that is sent to subscribers monthly.
  

• Improved search capability using Google Search technology (September). This major enhancement has made information easier to find throughout the site, including content within PDF documents such as Council Meeting agenda packages and minutes

2008 will see the Town further enhance interactivity through Banff.ca.  Plans include the introduction of blogs, more community content as a result of partnerships with community groups and more information outreach to the young adult community through videos and social networking opportunities.

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For Information:
Michelle Gurney
Marketing and Communications Manager
Town of Banff
T: 403.762.1207