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The Bureau of Meteorology has reversed a controversial aspect of its newly launched $4.1 million website by deciding to revert the default setting of its rain radar display.
The BoM’s updated “rain rate” radar (left) compared to the older “rain reflectivity” version (right):
Responding to public feedback, acting chief executive Peter Stone announced a significant change this afternoon. The new radar design, which faced considerable public criticism, will now revert to using the “rain reflectivity” display, a familiar setting from the previous website.
Previously, the radar showcased “rain rate” in millimeters per hour. This will now change back to the traditional “rain reflectivity” format.
“We’ve heard your concerns and have reinstated the former radar color scheme,” Stone stated.
“We are committed to ongoing assessments for further updates and improvements while continuing our efforts to familiarize the community with the new website,” he added.
“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”.
“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.
