|
|
Since 2001, more than 200 BC building industry members and organizations have
offered their input into this "online community" project.
In 2002 a free e-mail newsletter called BCBuilding.info was created to test the market. Over
60 issues have since
been published, with more than 1100 industry members now subscribing to this popular resource. Past issues can be viewed in the newsletter’s
Archives.
In 2004, with funding support from Residential Construction Institute of BC, industry and market research was carried out and the current concept of the
Community was developed.
Over the last year, more than 80 industry members have kindly volunteered their time as members of our
Beta Test Team. They regularly provide guidance on site design and content.
Industry research and Beta Test Team feedback showed a strong desire for industry members to have quicker access to credible information. They suggested we create an "online community" type of Web site. Specifically, they asked for:
- Information written for the building industry - "For Pro's, by Pro's"
- Content that is credible, current, and relevant to British Columbia
- Fast ways to find the information they need
- Places where they can privately share problems and ideas with their peers
In 2005, this new Web site was designed by
Deejays.com. Our Beta Test Team pilots the site, and regular improvements are made based on all users’ feedback.
Content is added on an ongoing basis. When complete, the Directory will contain 16 Divisions of information, structured similar to the Master Format Specifications. Within these, 120 Technical Sections will store over 15,000 links to credible sources of online information. It is expected to take up to two years to assemble the full Directory.
BC trade associations, agencies, utilities, and organizations are welcome to become Information Partners. Many of these groups have credible technical information and resources. Most have a desire to see broader dissemination of such information to the industry. These groups may provide site support such as Ask An Expert personnel, Discussion Forum moderators, and Alert notices on new products, issues and opportunities from their industry sectors.
|
|
