On entering the web address into my browser, my immediate impression was that the Homebase website is a bit slower to load than most sites when you are using a dial-up internet connection.
On loading, my impression was that the home-page is very 'busy' looking, with lots of text and pictures. Quite difficult to see what you want at first, and then your eyes get used to it, and you notice that there are links at the top of the page to take you to different sections of the site. Other pages are clean and simple looking - a welcome relief on the eyes compared to the home page!
I was
quite surprised to learn that there are no online ordering facilities and you cannot view their product range online. As Homebase is such a big company, this suggests to me that they are a bit 'behind the times', as almost all large retail companies these days have online ordering. However, it does state on their website that a new site is in development where online shopping will be possible, so that's good news!
~~ NAVIGATION ~~
The navigation of this site is simple and easy. All of the different sections of the website are written across the top of the pages which makes it very easy to jump from section to section.
* ABOUT US section *
This page is reached from a link at the top of the pages and contains a menu of sub-sections, such as the FAQs, Privacy & Security Policy, etc. From here, you can also sign up for their newsletter or apply for their Spend & Save Card. There are also details of their Homebase Account Card.
* FAQ sub-section *
This is pretty thorough and well written, but I do think it is in the wrong place. If you were a new internet user, then you may not think to look for it under the 'About Us' section. I believe the FAQs should be linked to from the top of each page - clearly visible to those who may need it.
Other sections accessible from the top of each main page are:
* Recruitment *
The Recruitment page features lots of info on careers within Homebase and includes a downloadable application form in PDF format, so you would need Adobe Reader to view it.
* Instore Promotions *
Now this page had me slightly confused, because the name conjures up the thought that you are going to see what items they have on special offer in their stores at the moment. Not so, it only shows adverts for the Spend & Save card and the Homebase Account card. Hmm....
This page is self explanatory really. It contains the options to contact Homebase via email, post, telephone, or fax.
* Store Locator *
This page features a list of all areas around the UK and ROI where they have their 275 stores. All of those areas are grouped alphabetically. If you click on an area name, you will then see an alphabetical list of towns within that area. Clicking on a town name then brings up that particular store's address, telephone number, opening times and details of holiday dates when the stores will be closed. I found this feature of the website to be very quick and easy to use.
* Spend & Save *
This page brings up all of the details you need to know about the Homebase reward card. Everything you need to know is featured, along with the terms and conditions and details of the Spend & Save Helpline should you get stuck. A very informative part of the website.
There is a major disadvantage that you cannot view products or order online, but it is good to know that they are working on this so that the facilities will be available in the future (although there is no info on how soon this might happen)
It is a very easy to use website and I would have no qualms about using it when their new site is up and running.
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Nov 22nd, 2004
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