Bankwest’s revamped website will take advantage of crowd-sourcing with user-generated comparisons and a range of new online-shopping inspired functions designed to reflect a more retail, customer-centric perspective.
The Commonwealth Bank-owned subsidiary claims the tools are unique in the financial services industry. Other enhancements include better search and filter functions.
"The new website offers customers a range of tools to help them select, compare and apply for products online," said Bankwest retail chief executive, Vittoria Shortt, in a statement. "The website includes shopping basket type functionality, filtering capabilities, user-generated comparison charts and ways to save and share selections."
The new search tool predicts popular search terms and keyword matches as users type. Rather than recommending alternative keywords, however, the tool suggests direct links to relevant information and services across the entire site.
"Consumers are increasingly tech-savvy so we have invested considerable time into making the website as user-friendly and satisfying as possible," Shortt said. "We’ve looked at the best websites beyond financial services and used this to benchmark ourselves. We’ve simplified online research for customers and given them the rich experience they expect from the best sites online whilst also maintaining our unique Bankwest brand."
In keeping with user expectations, elements of the original website have remained unchanged, she said. "We know that 85 per cent of users go to our website to log onto online banking, so we have made that a priority to remain as accessible and secure as possible. We’re also aware that for everyone else visiting the site to find information, get help or to self-serve, it was important that the site is a simple and engaging destination."
The bank is also in the middle of renovating more than 100 stores across Australia and has also launched a new iPhone app, which is available for download from the iTunes app store.
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