Says Peter Wright, "It was essential that we worked with someone who had an understanding of what we do. Glasshouse worked hard to get to know the BikeMaxPower concept and added value to the development phase."
This kind of research is critical to the development of a successful site. In the case of BikeMaxPower, (
www.bikemaxpower.com) specialists in cycling training, the website had to incorporate online training logs, blogs, newsletter subscriptions and an online store for cycling products.
To achieve this kind of usability, Glasshouse Multimedia developed the site using the Ruby on Rails web development platform (
www.rubyonrails.org). Ruby on Rails facilitates rapid development, promotes well-written and maintainable code, and through Agile Software development processes (
www.agilemanifesto.org), ensures client interaction throughout.
Additionally the site was built on Glasshouse Multimedia's in house-developed Chrysalis II Content Management System (CMS). Chrysalis II allows the client to edit page content, post blog entries and manage their online store. This puts the client in control of their site, facilitating quick updates, and increasing the relevance and accuracy of the website content.
However a site's usability has to be balanced by a compelling design that distinguishes it from its competition.
Elaborating on the BikeMaxPower website design, Glasshouse Multimedia's Creative Director, Du Toit Marais says, "Creatively the client allowed us to explore various options. The key factor however was to find an optimum balance between visual appeal and good usability."
"With so many white, open space sites out there we opted to go for a darker tone, which allowed for nice contrasts and worked really well with BikeMax's corporate colours."
Commenting on the end result of the development and creative process, Peter says, "We are very pleased with the new site. It captures the excitement and pace of our business and is also easy to navigate for the new visitor."
To view go to
www.bikemaxpower.comFor further information contact:Andri Laubscher
+27 21 461 7473
www.glasshouse.co.za
