IE 11 Not Supported

For optimal browsing, we recommend Chrome, Firefox or Safari browsers.

Briefs: West Virginia Launches Revamped Web Portal

New York City Dots Times Square with QR codes.

West Virginia Launches Revamped Web Portal

West Virginia's official website recently got a makeover, based off citizens' and state employees' suggestions, that allows for easier access to government services.

With the same "robust content as prior versions," the site makes finding information easier with several new features:

  • search preview: this helps users search for government resources faster and more accurately by suggesting possible search results while typing;
  • sub-portal preview: each wv.gov sub-portal now has a preview panel that gives users quick access to the top resources requested on that topic
  • updated design: the redesigned site features a clean, new look and easier navigation; and 
  • audience pages: state employees, residents and businesses now have pages tailored to their specific interests.
The redesign was completed at no expense to taxpayers, according to its press release, and is the result of a public-private partnership between the state and West Virginia Interactive. West Virginia Interactive is part of eGovernment firm NIC's family of companies.

New York City Fancies Times Square With QR Codes

New York City adorned Times Square with giant quick response (QR) codes last week in a multi-agency initiative called The City at Your Fingertips.

People could use their smartphone bar-code scanning app to scan the QR codes to pull up information relating to specific agencies being featured. Participating agencies included 311, NYC Department of Transportation, NYCulture Calendar, NYC Business Express and City of New York Parks and Recreations.

While most of the QR codes direct scanners to websites for more information, some promise a free ringtone or chance to win tickets to a Times Square viewing of the Tony Awards. NYC Media is the agency behind the effort.

-- Mashable.com