BM Solutions is to be congratulated on having just launched an outstanding new website which makes full use of the potential of the internet with a full range of innovative online services for the intermediary. As well as providing very robust practical tools needed to do business through its new website, BM has backed this up with a host of innovative features such as a series of specially-produced video programs throughout the site, a One Minute Mortgage decision service, a comprehensive industry news portal, guides to doing business online and a comprehensive online product portfolio.

The designers have chosen a solution that makes a very strong impact on the user. The site is crammed full of functionality but not in such a way that is overwhelming for navigation. BM Solutions does not make the mistake one encounters with so many ambitious sites which have a great deal on offer, that the design proves counter-productive because the effect is one of confusion. The designers have opted for a ’tiled’ section effect on the page with links at the bottom corner of each tile to lead the user to obtain more information. Traditional horizontal links across the top of each page help keep the entire offering within a disciplined and controlled package.

Content is boosted with the inclusion of BMTV, well produced special online video programs on products and services, a very notable feature. This is well introduced via a video by head of sales Alan Cleary who explains that BMTV will shortly also be including a further extra dimension – interactive video discussions between representatives of the company and intermediaries. Other content is no less innovative, including admirably clear product data and a special desktop alert to ensure intermediaries are aware of new products as they are announced. One nice touch is the partnership section with offers and competitions – all helping to create a genuine online community .

The site’s design, content, e-commerce and functionality all combine well to deliver a rich online user experience that is both informative, educational, and entertaining. All links and page transitions operate seamlessly and the designers and planners of the site deserve credit for having put together such a well-integrated package. The technology is used in the service of the site so that it is the content users are most aware of. This is in contrast to some sites where information takes second place to technological wizardry – wizardry that does not necessarily always enhance the user’s experience.

BM Solutions’ e-commerce offering recognises that users approach online technology with a range of different requirements. BM World caters for all levels of online experience, from submitting applications, through to new services including research, advice and industry news. Its sophisticated online application system, the One Minute Mortgage, provides brokers with a credit scored and searched mortgage decision in under one minute, along with the functionality to submit applications online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – so speeding up the processing time to offer. This e-commerce package also features product matching, intelligent application systems and case tracking. All in all, a very good site which has used a high degree of innovation to distinguish itself from its competitors.