Builders Reluctant to Beef up Internet Connections

Building firms are lagging behind other industries in up-grading their internet connections to cope with large amounts of information according to research.

A survey of 100 small and medium sized businesses by BT Openworld has revealed that at least 50 per cent of firms still handle business using paper and do not have enough bandwidth to receive electronic files, despite working with CAD drawings, plans and legal contracts.

According to BT, the industry is facing substantial business barriers by failing to invest in extra bandwidth.

Research reveals architects as front-runners in an industry slow to invest in broadband. 80 per cent believe that the internet is crucial to business strategy and some were early to adopt broadband connections.

BT Openworld president of business internet services said; 'Architects show a high propensity to adopt but building companies can't collaborate effectively with them due to technology constraints.'

NEW E-COMMERCE LAWS UNVEILED

The Government today issued new regulations to encourage greater use of e- commerce by breaking down barriers across Europe and boosting consumer confidence.

The regulations, implementing the EU E-Commerce Directive, were laid before Parliament today. The main body of the regulations will come into effect on 21 August.

This follows extensive and public consultations by the DTI and the Treasury on both the UK's approach to implementing the Directive and the draft regulations. High-quality responses from interested parties have helped to sharpen and focus the final regulations so that UK business can remain at the forefront of the e-commerce market.

The regulations include provisions for:
- the national law that will apply to online services;
- the information an online service provider must give a consumer, including discounts and offers in online advertising and how to conclude contracts online; and
- limitations on service providers' liability for unlawful information they unwittingly carry or store.

E-commerce Minister, Stephen Timms, said:
"The E-Commerce regulations will strengthen the development of e-commerce. They will help to break down barriers across Europe and boost consumer confidence in online shopping.

"After extensive and detailed consultation, we have arrived at the right framework for UK business and consumers. It was important to get this right, and consultation has helped us to do so.

"The E-Commerce regulations are another important step towards making the UK the best place in the world to do e-commerce."

The E-Commerce Directive was agreed in June 2000 and was due to be implemented in January 2002. Implementation was delayed to provide the chance for further consultation, to ensure the best possible framework to help drive forward the development of e-commerce.

The DTI are also issuing revised guidance to accompany the new regulations and its response to comments received on their draft form. These will be available from:
http://www.dti.gov.uk/cii/ecommerce/europeanpolicy/ecommerce_directive.shtml.

Home Improvement Website Seeks Suppliers for Europe

Conservatory and window suppliers are being sought for potentially lucrative business in mainland Europe.

The conservatory website, http://www.conservatoriesonline.com, lists a strong base of suppliers serving the UK and USA but is keen to find more companies that operate on the continent.

Launched two years ago by home improvement website specialist eBuilders, http://www.conservatoriesonline.com attracts up to 2,000 visitors a day and has already produced thousands of leads resulting revenue for suppliers listed on the site.

'The internet is shrinking the world for consumers and our conservatory site is a major business generator for suppliers in Europe and America,' said Barry Dunlop, managing director of eBuilders. 'We want potential customers to have the widest possible choice which is why we are still offering free listings to suppliers.

'This will help ensure that our customers in mainland Europe have access to a plentiful range of suppliers.'

As well as a free listing on the site suppliers can, if they choose, have a hyperlink set up to their own site for a modest charge.

Browsers logging on to http://www.conservatoriesonline.com can access comprehensive information about every aspect of choosing and installing a conservatory. They can also automatically obtain three quotes from local suppliers.

'The site is highly effective for both suppliers and consumers,' said Barry. 'It enjoys consistently high positions in the major search engines and is packed with useful information.'

Contact: Barry Dunlop
Tel: 01903 856679
Email: mailto:barry@ebuilders.co.uk
Other sites from eBuilders include:
http://www.windowstoday.co.uk
http://www.kitchenbuyersguide.com
http://www.almostimpartialguide.co.uk
http://www.sun-blinds.com

Structural Glazing Launches Suite of Information Points

Structural Glazing Ltd has launched a comprehensively revised web site at http://www.structuralglazingltd.co.uk. The company also has a new brochure and CD showcasing Structural Glazing's products and services.

The new web site offers specifiers and window contractors access to an array of information on one of the broadest ranges of factory-based silicone glazing services available in the UK. Technical information can be easily down loaded and used for specification work. A technical FAQ section is included and direct e-mail links to Structural Glazing make communicating with relevant personnel easy and simple.

John Richardson, Structural Glazing's MD comments: 'The Structural Glazing web site isn'tjust nice to look at, it's a really valuable tool for selecting and specifying silicone glazing products and services. Every single service and product we offer is covered with technical and specification information to back it up. The site follows the same principle as Structural Glazing's literature - it is designed to be clear, informative and useful to every reader, whether they are a window contractor or specifier.'

Visitors to the site can e-mail questions to Structural Glazing's Technical Department direct, though most will be answered by the on-line trouble-shooter section featuring the information most commonly requested from Structural Glazing. It is simple to move quickly to other useful sites such as RIBA, CWCT and the GGF using hyper links.

The new brochure and CD are available to specifiers free of charge.
Tel: 01952 608019
Email: mailto:structuralglazingltd@btinternet.com
Web: http://www.structuralglazingltd.co.uk

TRIC Offers Free Legal Advice on Waste Management

The Timber Recycling lnformation Centre (TRIC) has launched a 'Legal Zone', created in collaboration with Clarks solicitors, to guide companies through legal issues associated with waste management.

Anyone can access the Legal Zone at http://www.recycle-it.org/news/legal.asp - and the first consultation is free of charge. Companies need only fill in the TRlC Online Legal Consultation form, easily called up on the website, and give details of their enquiry. Clarks aim to respond within two working days. Typical issues include Landfill Tax, Packaging Regulation Notes and waste licences.

TRIC's website has been developed for industry as part of a Biffaward project, run by TRADA Technology Ltd and supported by TRADA and the Timber lndustry Environment Trust. As TRlC project manager Phil Becker explained, 'The consultation is made entirely in confidence. Clarks will help identify whether an issue has potential legal implications and advise what course of action to take. Whether the advice offered is acted upon is entirely at the enquirer's discretion.'

Clarks is a commercial law firm with a proven track record across the UK and overseas. Clients range from small businesses to multi-nationals and its experienced team of lawyers is supported by the latest technology. Via the Legal Zone, enquirers can access links to a range of reference material from the firm, including Clarks' Quarterly Environmental Law Newsletter, legal fact sheets, weekly legal news updates and briefing notes, as well as other internet resources.

TRIC has developed the Legal Zone to address its concerns that many companies in the timber-construction supply chain are not only failing to take advantage of the recycling opportunities available, but are ignoring their obligations under increasingly stringent environmental legislation. Statistics suggest that construction and demolition activities generate more than 50 million tonnes of waste materials in England and Wales each year. Much goes to landfill, with all the costs and attendant problems that can raise.

Phil Becker stressed: 'Companies cannot be too careful. For example, any business with a turnover of £2mlllion or more that generates 50 tonnes of packaging has obligations. If a customer uses your material for packaging, you are still liable. Our Legal Zone offers a safety net for companies who are not sure where their obligations start and end.'

In addition to the Legal Zone, TRIC's website at http://www.recycle-it.org offers a databank of research, practical waste minimisation advice and 'toolkits' to enable industry and educators to understand the impact timber has on the waste stream, leam how to use timber residues more effectively and how waste management processes can be improved. Access is free.

Tel: 01494 569600
Website: http://www.tradatechnology.co.uk

Online Information Service Encourages Greener Business Practices

A new information resource for environmentally aware businesses is now available with the launch on the 3rd May 2002 of a new website by the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP). The aim of the new site (http://www.wrap.org.uk) is to increase recycling levels in the UK by providing companies with all the information they need to buy, process, collect and sell recycled products and materials.

Clearly laid out, the website currently covers four main materials: glass, paper, plastics and wood. Under the Buy, Process, Collect and Sell headings, visitors can find out how and where to source recycled products and materials, technical and logistical information related to the collection and reprocessing of recycled materials, how to reach the best markets for recycled products and materials and what sources of finance are available.

'Ultimately, the aim is for the WRAP website to become a genuine 'one-stop shop' for businesses looking to buy, process, collect and sell recycled products and materials,' explains WRAP's Information Manager Jane Keys.

'Providing easy access to the best available information from around the world, it has been designed to function as a constantly evolving knowledge base. As WRAP develops, the amount of information on the site will expand to allow visitors to search for a wide range of technical, commercial, logistical and financial information on recycled materials and products.'

To promote the aims of the new online service, visitors to WRAP's new website have the chance to win one of hundreds of high quality products made from recycled material. The prizes, which include fleeces, coolbags and storm vases, are hidden behind certain search commands and an automatic message will appear onscreen if a prize has been won.

For those wanting more information about WRAP's work, the website also includes details of all WRAP's programme and current work, including capital funding competitions, news, the latest research reports published by WRAP, and a host of other features.

Web: http://www.wrap.org.uk

Sales Opportunity for Sunblind Suppliers

- Free Listing and Website Link Offered on Home Improvement Site

Sunblinds suppliers are being invited to participate, free of charge, in a marketing initiative in which they can have a free listing on - and website link to - a popular home improvement website.

The latest site from eBuilders, http://www.sun-blinds.com, tells consumers about sunblinds for conservatories and gives a list of stockists around the UK, Ireland, the USA and Canada.

The site outlines the different types of blind available, explains the benefits of each and gives recommendations about which are most suitable for various types of conservatory. It also provides the answers to frequently asked questions.
eBuilders managing director Barry Dunlop said that the sunblinds site was created in response to customer demand.

'I fully expect that this site will emulate the success of our other home improvement sites, including the world's leading conservatory website, http://www.conservatoriesonline.com, which daily attracts over 2,000 visitors seeking the lowdown on every aspect of choosing and installing a conservatory,' he said.

'This site is a mine of information and we are confident that it will prove indispensable to would-be buyers.'


Contact: Barry Dunlop (and please say that you read this in The GL@ZINE)
Tel: 01903 856679
Email: mailto:barry@ebuilders.co.uk

Website launch for Foilex

Foilex, the new specialist name in foiling, has launched an innovative new website to provide customers with a comprehensive guide to its service offer. Everything you need to know about the newest name in foiling is now available on line. The Foilex website explains the company's experience, service and support for PVC-U and Cellular PVC-UE extruders.

Foilex offers an extensive range of laminated finishes covering the entire range of available foils in woodgrain and RAL colours. The company uses environmentally friendly hot melt techniques and operates a 30,000 sq ft coverage warehouse, so that no products are stored outside.

The website contains details about the Foilex 10 year guarantee and rapid order
turnaround.

Foilex offers a reliable nationwide service for roofline, cladding and window/door profiles. It operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 51 weeks a year from large premises in Telford.

For more information visit www.foilex.co.uk

Browse Through Styleware's Portfolio

'Searching for a new product, or for a new supplier that can react quickly and efficiently to your needs? Then go to Stylware's new website and discover some of the exciting innovations they are able to offer their customers!' says the company
'Just like the professional service that Styleware is renowned for, the new website is fast and simple to use, offering a comprehensive guide to the products and services available. The site is regularly kept up to date with a dedicated page to inform readers of the latest news, whilst special offers are highlighted on each product page and the home page provides details of the three easy steps to ordering - you can even e-mail your orders direct.'

Diagrams and graphics enable visitors to the site to identify what they are looking for, with products such as the Rhapsody door range and the company's vertical sliding window on view. Yale security locks and alarm systems can also be seen on the site along with a sample of their variety of trims and boards and Styleware's patio door and trim ranges.
Tel: 08705 143488.
www.stylewareuk.com

DTI Brings UK Business 'One-Click Access' to Latest Technology Information

A new website which will provide UK businesses with information about the latest technology developments around the world was launched last week by Science Minister Lord Sainsbury.

The website aims to help improve the competitiveness of UK industry at home and overseas by making companies aware of best practice in information communication technologies, life sciences, performance engineering and sustainable technologies.

The DTI's new globalwatchonline website will provide:
- reports from the Foreign Office science and technology posts located in key technology centres overseas;
- information on technology and business developments around the world drawn together from 600 specially selected websites, and
- contacts with the DTI's International Technology Promoters, business people with experience in developing technology partnerships between UK business and overseas organisations. This team had been doubled to 16.
Lord Sainsbury said:
'Turning new ideas into jobs and prosperity is essential to the future strength of the UK economy.
'We have an excellent track record in scientific discovery and are home to strong science-based industries.
'But in order to maintain our strength it is essential to help business become aware of international developments in technology and to help companies access them and establish technology partnerships with overseas firms.

'globalwatchonline will bring UK businesses up-to-date information on technology developments world wide.'

http://www.globalwatchonline.com

BBSA Launches New Website

The British Blind & Shutter Association (BBSA) has recently launched a new
website at: http://www.bbsa.org.uk

The BBSA represents the leading blind and shutter manufacturers and suppliers to the industry in the UK. Products supplied by members include internal and external blinds and shading systems, shutters and security grilles.

The new website includes product information and a fully searchable directory of over 350 members, their products, trade names and links to their own websites. The site features information on trade publications, British and international standards and useful links.

Also included are full details of the Blinds & Shutters 2002 Exhibition to be held at the International Centre, Telford from 6 to 8 October 2002.

Tel: 01827 52337
Email: mailto:info@bbsa.org.uk

PPG Earns 'e-Learning Success Award' for Fast, Efficient Global Training Efforts

PPG Industries recently won an 'e-Learning Success Award' from e-Learning Magazine for its fast, cost-efficient efforts in training employees around the globe. PPG was among three U.S. corporations, three government and four educational institutions to be recognized in the programme.

PPG received the award during the e-Learning Exposition and Conference at the Washington, D.C., Convention Center in the 'corporate quick training' category for its global 'QualityQuest' training initiatives. Entries in the 2-year-old e-Learning Success Award program were evaluated by a panel of judges composed of Fortune 100, government and higher education professionals.

More than 2,000 managers across PPG's operations in 120 countries last year received 24 hours of in-depth training on how to better align goals and use the company's 'Quality Process' to make sustained improvements in their business units and staff functions.

PPG's award-winning e-learning efforts came in response to a global management needs-assessment, according to Christine Camsuzou, PPG's director of corporate quality.

'Our e-learning efforts were strategically focused on quickly delivering crucial training worldwide,' she said. 'It augmented face-to-face classroom instruction and, in some cases, provided training in some areas that we otherwise would not have been able to physically reach.'

QualityQuest training enabled PPG to provide fast, clear, concise communications across its business units. The online initiative resulted in a savings of nearly $3.5 million last year in delivery of global training, reduced training-development time by about two-thirds and netted praise from all corners of PPG's worldwide operations, Camsuzou said. More important, it also resulted in tighter alignment of business plans and strategic goals.

'QualityQuest training put a sharp focus on alignment of goals at all levels and greatly improved the communications and corresponding linkage of our business planning,' said Richard Zahren, vice president of PPG's automotive coatings business unit. 'Thanks to the e-learning initiative, we have better operating plans with less churn.'

The training also contributed to the success of the company's global packaging coatings unit -- which includes three newly acquired companies each with its own brand of training -- by providing a strong focal point and consistent message on alignment of goals and quality processes, according to David Hughes, human resources director for PPG's packaging coatings business unit.

'QualityQuest is a timely, cost-effective forum for delivery of concepts that are crucial to our packaging coatings units' success,' Hughes said. 'We are now able to easily communicate the role of the individual employee in attaining local, regional and global goals.

'For the first time, our employees are able to understand how they fit into the broader picture and see clearly how their efforts help to drive our business success. QualityQuest enables us to speak the same language about quality.'
Pittsburgh-based PPG is a global manufacturer of coatings, glass, fiber glass and chemicals, with 120 manufacturing locations and equity affiliates in 24 countries. Sales in 2001 were $8.2 billion.

Web: http://www.ppg.com

Trocal Online Shop Opened

The official opening of the Trocal online shop took place at Fensterbau/Frontale 2002 in Nuremberg. Customers can now order Trocal profiles and accessories on the lnternet as well as by the more conventional methods. In line with HT's four-brand strategy, its other brands - KBE, Knipping and Kommerling - will also open shops of their own.

The entry into the virtual department store is the Trocal online shop. This can be reached by clicking on a link on the Trocal home page. The second pillar of e-commerce at Trocal is the option of a direct online connection between customers' data processing systems and the SAP system. This is referred to as SCM (Supply Chain Management).

To simplify the ordering process for customers and to save them time, the online shop has been designed like an order catalogue. The big difference is that only one catalogue is needed, whereas previously several brochures often had to be consulted in order to place an order. Fast access to the required products is supported by various search functions. Moreover, detailed information about products can be called up.

Other features such as a 'shopping basket' and fast-order options simplify regular transactions and reduce transmission errors. Naturally the online shop can also be used as a quick source of information at weekends or after working hours. The system will grow in parallel with customers' demands.

Tel: 0049 2241 852541
Web: http://www.ht-troplast.com or http://www.trocal-profile.de

THE QUALITY INDEX

Specifiers, and anyone else who's interested in Quality Assurance, can now visit a specialised website: http://www.thequalityindex.co.uk, to see which window companies have certification.

Martin Harrison, the architect who developed the website for Windowbase, says: 'Ever since windows could be made to recognised standards, it's been difficult to validate claims. The BBA compete with the BSI, and all the various assessment bodies for Quality Assurance - and they keep their own records. Whilst some of them can be accessed through various websites, this is the country's first One-Stop-Shop. Not only windows - doors have also been recently added.'

Contact: Mike Davis
Tel: 01706 644308
Email: mailto:sales@winbase.co.uk

Pilkington Website wins Investor Relations Best Practice Award

The new Pilkington plc website, http://www.pilkington.com, has received a major award just four weeks after re-launch - for 'best practice' in investor relations. Pilkington won the 'Most Improved IR Website' category at the 2002 Annual Investor Relations Website Awards held in London on 18 April.

The Award, sponsored by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), attracted some 300 entries from leading UK firms. The presentation was made by the DTI Minister of State Alan Johnson MP to Pilkington plc Head of Corporate Affairs, David Roycroft.

Pilkington plc also received a Commendation in the category 'Best FTSE 250 Website'.

David Roycroft said, 'The Award and Commendation recognise the work that has gone into our website restructuring, particularly in the 'Corporate Information' section. Company websites are a prime information source for financial analysts and shareholders and can play an important role in influencing investment decisions. Our aim is to ensure that the Pilkington website is world-class'.

The judges praised the Pilkington site, which covers 70 countries in 20 languages, for its
* use of technical innovation to enhance usability and usefulness
* incorporation of relevant sources of information and insight into the company and
* its markets level of differentiation against its peer group

GOVERNMENT TO CONSULT ON E-COMMERCE REGULATIONS

The DTI today launched a consultation on draft regulations to implement the EU e-Commerce directive.

E-commerce is already worth £57 billion in the UK and is transforming the way we do business. The directive will encourage e-commerce across Europe by breaking down barriers and increasing consumer confidence.

An earlier consultation had already addressed the UK approach to the implementation of the directive.

The Treasury is running a parallel consultation on draft regulations to implement the Directive in the financial services sector.

The EU E-Commerce Directive was agreed in June 2000. It includes requirements on:
- the information an online service provider must give a consumer;
- the information a consumer must have about the steps to take to conclude an e-contract;
- the information that must be given about the sender, discounts, offers etc. in online advertising;
- the limitation of intermediate service providers' liability for unlawful information or activities they unwittingly carry or store;
and
- the national law that will apply to online services.

Launching the consultation Douglas Alexander, e-Commerce Minister, said:
'E-commerce is transforming the way we do business across Europe.
'It is vital that we create strong foundations on which to continue to build a successful new economy.
'We need to get the legal framework right. This consultation will help make sure we get the legislation framed so we make the UK the best place to do e-commerce.
'The regulations will be finalised after careful consideration of the responses to the consultation.'

Note: In order to ensure effective implementation in the specialised area of financial services, a separate consultation is being launched by the Treasury. The consultation document and further information can be obtained from: www.hmtreasury.gov.uk/Consultations_and_Legislation/consult_liveindex.cfm.

Website offers leads from potential 'island' conservatory buyers

Conservatory and window suppliers are missing out on sales worth many thousands of pounds by ignoring potential customers on islands around Britain, the Scottish Highlands and parts of the Republic of Ireland.

That’s the view of the UK company behind the world’s leading conservatory website, www.conservatoriesonline.com. Launched just two years ago, the website attracts up to 2,000 visitors a day and has already produced thousands of leads resulting in millions of pounds-worth of revenue for suppliers listed on the site.

However, some areas – including the Isle of Wight, the Isle of Man, Anglesey, the Channel Islands, the Scottish Highlands and islands off the Scottish coast, plus Cork and Kerry in the Republic of Ireland – are still under-represented, according to Barry Dunlop, managing director of website-owner eBuilders.

“More and more consumers use the internet for making buying decisions and this site is a major business generator for suppliers,” he said. “However, we are still seeking reputable companies in a few areas to ensure comprehensive coverage for customers.”

Suppliers can take advantage of a free listing on the site or, for a modest sum, have a hyperlink set up to their own site.

Browsers logging on to www.conservatoriesonline.com will find comprehensive information about every conceivable aspect of choosing and installing a conservatory – and the opportunity to automatically obtain three quotes from local suppliers.

“The site is highly effective for both suppliers and consumers,” said Mr Dunlop. “It enjoys consistently high positions in the major search engines and is packed with useful information.

“What we now want to do is fill in those geographical gaps so that consumers in all areas have equal access to a good a range of suppliers.”

For more information call Barry Dunlop on 01903 856679 or email barry@ebuilders.co.uk.
Other sites from eBuilders include:
www.windowstoday.co.uk
www.kitchenbuyersguide.com
www.almostimpartialguide.co.uk
www.sun-blinds.com

OFT issues web warning: US/UK co-operation on website address sales

The OFT is warning internet users purchasing or registering website addresses ('domain names') to make sure they know exactly what they are paying for.

The majority of web addresses accessible by the general public end with a recognisable suffix (also known as a 'top level domain name') such as .com or .net. However, a number of domain names such as .brit, .usa, .scot and .sex which have been offered for sale can only be accessed through alternative networks.

Domain names registered on alternative networks will not be found by a search using normal, unmodified web browser software.

The OFT is urging any consumers or businesses thinking of purchasing a domain name for use on the World Wide Web to check whether it is recognised by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), who co-ordinate the distribution of generally accessible top level domain names (visit www.icann.org for further information).

Anyone concerned that they may have been misled about domain names offered for sale should contact the OFT by email at euroteam@oft.gsi.gov.uk or phone on 08457 22 44 99.

The US Federal Trade Commission alerted the OFT to this issue as part of the ongoing co-operation among the international enforcement community designed to tackle the problems that can arise when media such as the internet are used to trade across borders.

John Vickers, Director General of Fair Trading said: 'It is important that consumers and businesses seeking internet domain names know exactly what it is that they are buying.

'International co-operation between enforcement agencies is increasingly important to protect consumers and businesses.'

E-BUSINESS IS YOUR BUSINESS


‘E-commerce is more than just about connecting to the internet. It is about transforming businesses and adopting new ways of working,’ Douglas Alexander, E- commerce Minister told key representatives from the minerals and construction products industry.

Speaking at a seminar for the industry, Mr Alexander launched an e-commerce impact assessment report for the sector. The report highlighted the positive effect that e- commerce has had upon the industry, and identified the benefits of integrating e- commerce into everyday business practice.

Mr Alexander said:
‘The minerals and quarry products industries play a key role in the competitiveness and success of many other UK industries.

‘E-commerce is central to the future growth and competitiveness of the UK. It encourages growth, breaks down barriers and allows companies to compete in global and increasingly sophisticated new markets.
‘It is vital that all industries continue to take up the challenge and feel the benefits that e-commerce can deliver, so that they can play their part in advancing our e-commerce agenda.’

The seminar, attended by more than 100 industry representatives, drew upon a number of key case studies from the sector. It highlighted the range of support and advice available to the sector through the Government's UK online for business initiative. It also discussed the way forward for the industry.

The impact assessment report is part of a wide-ranging DTI programme, examining the use of e-commerce across a wide variety of key business sectors in the UK.

The studies will assist the DTI in delivering policy to accelerate the take-up of e-commerce by businesses to the benefit of the wider economy.
A copy of the report is available at
http://www.ukonlineforbusiness.gov.uk/Government/impactstudies.htm

The UK online for business website:
http://www.ukonlineforbusiness.gov.uk gives a full range of advice and guidance for businesses on how to get the most from e- commerce.

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