Leigh Simpson
For specifiers, clear and consistent technical information is essential to make informed decisions about building products and materials. Architects rely on manufacturers product data. Making sure this information is structured correctly on your website is critical.
To help address this challenge, organisations such as the British Standards Institution (BSI) and the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) have developed guidelines and standards for organising technical information related to construction products and services.
Incorporating these guidelines into your website design can provide an enhanced user experience for specifiers and other users, making it easier to understand and specify your building products and materials.
Here's an overview of how you can do this.
First, let's cover the basics.
1. What is BS4940-2:1994?
If you've never heard of BS4940, don't worry, most people haven't.
Although information mediums have changed from paper to online in the last 50 years, product research and architectural design fundamentals remain constant.
BS4940-2:1994 provides a valuable framework for organising technical information and remains a relevant and important resource for marketing and product managers in the construction industry.
The principles outlined in the standard are still relevant today and can be applied to the design and organisation of product information on manufacturer websites and other digital platforms.
Designing effective product pages and case studies that adhere to these guidelines can help building product manufacturers provide a comprehensive and engaging user experience that enhances understanding and specification of the product.
2. How this Changes webpage Design
Product pages should include clear and concise product information, technical data, installation and use information, health and safety information, maintenance and care information, case studies and projects, technical documents, and contact information. Visual aids such as images, diagrams, and videos can also be included to enhance the user experience and aid comprehension.
Case studies should provide a more in-depth look at how the product has been used in real-world projects.
To design an effective case study page, manufacturers should include project information, an overview of the project challenge, a description of the product and how it was used in the project, the outcomes of using the product in the project, high-quality photography and imagery, technical information, and contact information.
To minimise the need for users to navigate around the website to find information on products showcased in the case study, manufacturers should consider including links or references to relevant product pages or other technical information within the text of the case study itself.
3. What about CCPI?
The recent introduction of the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) provides further validation of the relevance and importance of the principles outlined in BS4940-2:1994. The CCPI builds on these foundations, providing updated guidance on the organisation and presentation of construction product information in the digital age.
Overall, incorporating BS4940-2:1994 and CCPI guidelines into website design can help you provide a better user experience for specifiers and other users, making it easier to understand and specify your building products, elevating your brand in a crowded marketplace.
Conclusion
The importance of clear and consistent technical information cannot be overstated when it comes to decision-making in the realm of building products and materials. How this information is presented on your website can be the deciding factor in whether architects choose to engage with your company or seek alternatives.
Fortunately, organizations like the British Standards Institution (BSI) and the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) have recognized the significance of well-organized technical information in the construction industry. Their guidelines and standards, particularly the enduring principles of BS4940-2:1994, remain invaluable resources for marketing and product managers.
When you incorporate these guidelines into your website design, you open the door to an enhanced user experience for specifiers and other visitors. This, in turn, facilitates a better understanding and specification of your building products and materials.
If you'd like to discuss your website or technical information, book a free consultation.
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