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The Bureau of Meteorology has reversed a key feature of its newly launched $4.1 million website, responding to public criticism by reinstating the default rain radar display.
The website, which recently implemented a “rain rate” radar display, will now revert to the familiar “rain reflectivity” view that users were accustomed to on the previous site.
In a statement made this afternoon, acting CEO Peter Stone acknowledged the feedback from users and announced the change. “We’ve listened to your feedback and have restored the previous radar color scheme,” Stone said, addressing the concerns that had made the new radar display particularly unpopular.
This decision marks a significant effort by the Bureau to prioritize user experience and public preference in the functionality of its digital platform.
“We’ve listened to your feedback, and have restored the previous radar colour scheme,” Stone said.
“We will continue to assess options for further updates and improvements at the same time as pushing on with our efforts to help the community become more familiar with the new website.”
He added that further adjustments would be rolled out soon.
“More changes are in the pipeline,” Stone said.
The change to the radar went live this morning, although users can choose to change the view to rain rate if they prefer.
“I made clear my expectations that the BOM needed to consider this feedback and, where appropriate, adjust the website’s settings as soon as possible,” the environment minister said in a statement.
“This includes urgent consideration of improvements to the website’s functionality and usability…
“Australians deserve to have confidence in these important services.”
New websites often face criticism from users who are used to the previous layout, and matters were complicated for the BoM by the fact its relaunch went live on October 22, days before severe storms hit Brisbane.
On Wednesday, Scott insisted the new site was “specifically designed to enhance access to public safety information”.Â
“The Bureau’s forecasts and warnings are now more prominent, easily accessible and relevant to your location,” he added.
However, he also acknowledged the public criticism and apologised for the challenges some users had faced.
“It’s clear we need to do more to help people through the change, both by making adjustments to the website and by helping users to understand its new features,” Stone said.
