Orkney Islands Council is asking folk to have their say on how their local authority’s website could be improved.
The call for input comes after residents flagged the issue during a previous budget consultation.
That survey revealed frustrations with navigation and accessibility that the council is now aiming to tackle head-on.
The current website homepage was last refreshed in 2023 with an emphasis on usability and clearer access to services.
Recent upgrades include the addition of live social media feeds from Facebook, X, LinkedIn and YouTube.
These are viewable without needing to log in, making council updates more accessible for everyone.
Ross Cunningham, Service Manager for Democratic Services and Communications, says this is just the beginning.
He confirmed the council is keen to hear directly from the people who use the website most.
He described the site as “one of the most popular ways” residents interact with council services and report issues via the MyOrkney platform.
Cunningham added that while the latest changes had been well received, more improvements are being planned.
To that end, locals are being urged to complete a quick 10-minute survey and share their thoughts.
The council wants to know what services people want front and centre, what tools would help most, and what features could improve their digital experience.
It’s a chance to help shape a website that works better for the island’s communities.
The survey is live now and will remain open until Sunday 13 April 2025.
You can have your say at engage.orkneyislands.uk/WebsiteFeedback
Whether it’s easier access to council tax services, more visibility on planning applications, or better reporting tools, every suggestion matters.
This is part of a wider effort by Orkney Islands Council to build a more responsive and transparent digital platform.
Public participation is vital to make sure the site truly reflects community needs.
With budgets tight and resources stretched, investing in smarter digital solutions is becoming more important than ever.
The council believes that input from real users is the key to getting it right.
Now’s the time to speak up and help shape the online gateway to local government in Orkney.
