Map-aided search via geo-coded data

The task
WACOM Europe GmbH handles the graphic tablets business and applied technologies for the whole of Europe and operates a comprehensive, multilingual website containing a wide range of information and numerous interaction options – from product registration via a trader domain with downloads right up to a forum for users’ questions and answers – as service-oriented support for final customers.



The website services also include the heavily frequented trader search which enables the user to find the appropriate trader in the respective town or city. In the past, the search was based on a comparison of postal codes. If no trader was found for the appropriate postal code, then the search was extended to just the first two digits of the postal code. The disadvantage of this was, however, that this extension of the search to the surrounding area only functions in Germany and Austria. This variant does not function in other markets due to the structure of the postal code.


The new trader search aims to eliminate these problems and at the same time provide added value, by enabling the customer to reach the required result faster. It includes a geo-coded area search, map displays and route navigation. During the implementation, particular attention was paid to the support in all six languages used in the WACOM Europe website.

 

The customer
Since it was set up in 1983, WACOM has been able to establish itself as an international market leader for graphic tablets and has made a name for itself as a pioneer in the development of the pen as the input tool for the computer. Since then, WACOM has concentrated on making working conditions in the computer world more ergonomic and more natural. This not only results in more flexible handling of computer technology but also in a wide spectrum of possible applications. The main aim is to achieve the greatest possible harmony between user and the computer.

 

The solution
swift.consult created a completely new multilingual trader search. The search engine is based on the most current version of the service Microsoft MapPoint WebService. Using this service, trader details are geo-coded directly from the CRM system time-controlled and used as a data base. An overview page which shows all hits precisely and displays them in the overview map provides a detailed presentation including the option to calculate a route from the user’s place of residence to the trader’s premises. The implementation was carried out quickly and reliably despite the tight time-schedule. Our services in detail:

 

  • Consulting and concept advice
  • Software development