MHIA site gets a facelift

Material Handling Industry of America has launched a major site redesign-and more enhancements are planned.

By -- Modern Materials Handling, 5/1/2000

Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) is in the midst of an ambitious overhaul of its web site (www.mhia.org ). The first phase debuted at the recent North American Material Handling Show (NA 2000).

According to executive vice president of business development F. Hal Vandiver, MHIA's ultimate objective is to establish the site as a major portal for the industry. The redesign is being implemented in three phases, he says:

- Phase One, already implemented, was to improve the site's graphics and navigation. And indeed, both have been improved dramatically. In addition, a Worldwide Resources page lets users click on a map of the world to get information on resources in different countries-a brief economic summaries, trade associations, standards information, government contacts, and the like.

- Phase Two's objective is to bring the technology behind the site up to date. Much of this work has been done; the site now boasts an Advanced Search option that lets visitors find manufacturers of specific types of equipment in a particular state.

One big improvement: Users now can register for MHIA-sponsored trade shows online. MHIA's Joan Comerford says those who choose this option won't have to wait in line when they get to the show. They'll also be exempted from the usual $25 registration fee.

Another new feature is an "Ask MHIA" button. This lets users email the organization with any materials handling question and get a response within a few days.

- Phase Three, targeted for completion in the third quarter of this year, will focus on new content, features, and functionality. Projects being considered include a Material Handling Solution Center that would provide quick, automated responses to user questions.

Vandiver also expects the site to have career information, both for vendors and end users of materials handling systems and equipment. In the more distant future, with no estimate on a completion date, the organization hopes to offer more sophisticated features such as e-commerce and online seminars.