Web watch: we review what’s hot on the net

AUTOGLASS, part of the Belron group, offers automotive glass replacement and repairs 24 hours a day, seven days a week on any vehicle, anywhere in the UK.

The company’s website at www.autoglass.co.uk offers all these functions – and more – at the click of a mouse.

The homepage looks bare, as a result of generous use of white space throughout but logos and images help to break this up.

The left-hand side menu displays the function of the site clearly and the homepage spread offers quick links to key functions like a branch locator, a call-back service and an online booking function.

Small cracks in the windscreen or minor stone chips are common causes for repair, and for these the motorist can locate his or her nearest Autoglass dealer by inputting home town and post code. The local branch is displayed with a map on screen within seconds, enabling car owners to plan in a drive to an Autoglass site and get the damage fixed on the spot, depending on its severity. Most repairs can be carried out without the need to fork out for a complete replacement screen (but ask for new wipers – they’re free).

Anyone who needs to get a quote from Autoglass or requires specific information can use the handy call-back service on the website. Customers can arrange for someone to call back at a specified time (up to one hour) on a particular number.

Quotes and bookings can be requested online and there’s the option of contact by email, phone or post.

Autoglass.co.uk also features a flash animation of ‘Chip the crash test dummy’ to ‘recreate’ the effects of the elements on damaged screens. This injects some needed colour into the subject of glass repair.

The site is easy to navigate, helped largely by great holes of white space. But creative use of white space does have its place – everything functions smoothly and the site offers plenty of simple interactive features that work without a hitch.