As many of you know, a huge amount of work has gone into iShare 6.0. Modernizing and updating the back-end stack of an enterprise web application is a huge undertaking, and we now have a stable new version with a recent history of reliable point releases.
However, as a result of this attention to the server side of iShare, we became acutely aware that the front end was showing its age a little. What was cutting-edge now needed updating, for two important reasons:
- design
- accessibility
iShare 6.0.9 presents the result of our initial work on the iShare Maps front end, bringing a slicker, more accessible interface to your users.
Design
Drawing on diverse inspirations, from the GOV.UK Design System to wonderful customised iShare examples built by our customers, we’re now delighted to introduce iShare Maps’ new look.
Larger, clearer text couples with improved whitespace and softer design elements to present a friendlier face to the public for your organisation. Plus, our interface is now updated to complement the improved basemapping we recently introduced to Astun Data Services (ADS).
This beautiful new front end to iShare Maps is far from just cosmetic, however. It also packs a punch in accessibility.
Accessibility
The accessible web has moved on in recent years, inspiring us to make further accessibility improvements to iShare Maps. Working to long-established standards which underpin legislation worldwide, we’ve eradicated some historic issues, broadening our customers’ audiences by empowering more users to access information without technical barriers.
Working in conjunction with our customers and their amazing accessibility experts, we’ve improved our compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). This long-established standard guides web developers in improving fundamental aspects of their websites. In improving iShare Maps’ compliance, we have made our product more:
As we all know, improving websites for those with alternative access needs makes them easier to use for all audiences. iShare Maps is now better for everyone.
What’s next?
The new iShare Maps front end will be available from iShare 6.0.9 onwards. It will be optional at launch, so customers can evaluate it before going live. Over time, it will become the default.
We look forward to seeing live sites spring up from customers across the country and using feedback to inform further enhancements. Design and accessibility improvements are always possible, no matter how good your site is.