In an effort to provide a more user-friendly accessible site, Secretary of State, Tre Hargett, has announced the unveiling of a restructured State Department website. The first phase of the updated website will be available for the public to preview by the close of business on Tuesday, March 3, with final changes scheduled for completion by the end of the month. The initial update includes a redesigned homepage and redesigned home pages for each State Department division with a web presence.

“I am pleased to announce the unveiling of the State Department’s restructured, updated website,” stated Secretary Hargett. “These changes will offer a much easier way to conduct business with state government and hopefully provide easier access to information and generally a more positive experience in navigating the site.”

Last year, the State Department’s website had 2.5 million visits and averaged 10,000 visits per day. The site serves as an online resource for several of the State Department’s functions including administrative hearings, business services, charitable fundraising, elections, the library and archives as well as publications. The updated website will feature several additions including links for News & Updates, Frequently Asked Questions, as well as new links for business filing forms and other tools designed to encourage website usability.

“The State Department’s web presences is one of the main channels of contact between individuals and the state,” said Secretary Hargett. “It is crucial that the most current information and resources are made available in an accessible manner to ensure a constructive, working relationship between the state and its citizens.”

The Tennessee Department of State’s website can be found at www.state.tn.us/sos. To comment on the changes or provide feedback, email Secretary Hargett at sos.redesign@state.tn.us. The website is set to launch March 3, 2009.