The New York State Insurance Department's Web site, which wonthe 2002 "Best of the Web" award from the Rockefeller Institute ofGovernment, has been redesigned with an eye toward ease of use andgreater accessibility.

According to the department, the Web site now breaks outinformation for the three groups that most frequently visit thesite: producers, insurers and consumers.

The site features new home page columns and a site map foreasier navigation, as well as visual enhancements--includingimproved screen contrast--for enhanced readability, the departmentsaid.

Andy Mais, spokesman for the department, said the actualinformation on the Web site has remained essentially the same, andthe improvements have centered on increasing accessibility to thatinformation.

One content change, Mr. Mais said, is a portal application fordisaster preparedness, where industry members are required toregister their disaster and business continuity plans with thedepartment.

Insurance Superintendent Eric Dinallo said, "As with mostorganizations, our Web site has become a primary point of contact,and we felt it was time to improve an already excellent resource.Industry, consumers--including seniors--and anyone with insurancequestions will find a wealth of resources conveniently athand."