OUR refines website for public access

The Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) has redesigned its website to make it more user-friendly and open to access to its documentation and other content.

The website was launched Wednesday, but the agency said it remains a work in progress, suggesting there could be other refinements.

The site covers all sectors regulated by the agency: electricity, telecommunications, water and sewage, and transport.

"This website is our own storefront to the world, exhibiting the solid base of information and knowledge produced by the organisation over 15 years," said Director of Consumer and Public Affairs Yvonne Grinam Nicholson.

Director of Information Technology Leighton Hamilton said the site - our.org.jm - was reconstructed to make it easier to browse for information, whether from a computer terminal or a smartphone.

"Part of the new website was a conceptual change. We wanted to start giving information to the general public along with our licencees, but our focus was mainly on the general public," said Hamilton.

"It will allow you to find the information you require in at least three to four clicks," he said.

The OUR has also introduced a new interactive feature, which allows consumers to post comments, ask questions, or join discussions.

In addition to OUR reports, decisions, and industry documents, the agency will also be posting video as well as audio content from its radio programme, which focusses on the agency's activities.

All the information will be catalogued.

"We are thinking in line of the common man who may not know what various things are, so we have put it in the various catalogues and have simplified it for them," said public education specialist, Elizabeth Marsh.

roxanne.williams@gleanerjm.com