OceanWise Re-launches iCoast

OceanWise, the player in marine environmental data acquisition, data management, GIS and other services,  announced its involvement in the recent iCoast renovation project.

The iCoast website, found at www.icoast.co.uk, is an open access web application providing users the ability to quickly explore activities and plan days out at the Dorset coast.

A simple map interface allows users select and view activities at the Dorset coast. Activities appear on the map as a small icon which can be queried to find out more information and add to the kitbag for later. Users can also add weather, tide and transport information to the map, making exploring and planning days out in Dorset a breeze!

OceanWise have delivered a brand new front-end (the mapping web pages exposed to the customer), re-written from the ground up to improve the usability and speed of the system. The new front-end benefits from improved navigation, more up-to-date activity details and better accessibility on mobile devices. Old technology has been updated to ensure the system is futureproofed for years to come.

OceanWise have also developed a bespoke Content Management System (CMS) for iCoast, allowing organisations to quickly and easily update details about their activities and facilities. The CMS is great for any organisation on the Dorset coast interested in improving their visibility to Dorset coast tourists online.

George Wright, Information Systems Developer at OceanWise, and lead on the iCoast project commented “It has been a pleasure working on a project. We are really happy with the result and feel that iCoast is now an indispensable tool for those visiting the Dorset coastline. The project has been a fantastic learning experience for OceanWise, and we look forward to working with Dorset Coast Forum on future stages of iCoast.”

iCoast’s renovation and re-launch is part of Dorset Coastal Connections, a portfolio of 18 connected projects which aim to improve physical, digital and emotional connections to the coast in Dorset, supporting and growing the local economy. Dorset Coastal Connections is a partnership project supported by the Coastal Communities Fund.