Rolex
Known as one of the most exclusive and prestigious brands in the world, Rolex represents the very best of Swiss watch manufacturing. Established in 1905, Rolex has become synonymous with stylish, quality craftsmanship which ensures that the name remains intrinsically linked with superior style and the watches remain status symbols for those who wear them.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 1
Auto Playing Multimedia
When you design a website, it is best to allow the user to choose the multimedia options i.e. whether to watch a flash presentation, listen to music etc. Unfortunately, on many of the Rolex product pages the music plays automatically and the option to turn the music off is not given. This can irritate users, especially after multiple visits.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 2
No Contact Email
It is important for companies to foster trust by offering the potential customer a way to contact them. Whether it is a product question, a complaint or a more general inquiry, the customer should be able to get in touch. Unfortunately and surprisingly for a worldwide company, Rolex offers no contact details whatsoever. This is critical, especially if you are looking to purchase, repair or find a particular timepiece.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 3
No Search Function
Searching for a specific product, item or subject is an important part of a website experience; it adds convenience, saves time and facilitates the overall usability of the site. Though you can browse the general collection offered by Rolex, there is no function for specific searches. This lack of a search function can lead to a long, frustrating amount of browsing or having to refer to the in depth site map for information.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 4
All Flash Site
Many sites have an element of Flash within their design and structure. Used well, it can enhance certain features and add to the overall look. Unfortunately, when you visit www.rolex.com the entire site is Flash. This is detrimental for two main reasons: the pages cannot be bookmarked and pages specific to products cannot be emailed. There is an equivalent HTML site but this can only be found through search engines.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 5
No Dealer Information/Listing
Most sites which showcase products offer a complete listing of dealers and locations for purchase. This enables the potential buyer to be reassured that they are purchasing from a reputable source. Unfortunately, on the Rolex website there are no such listings and no information about where to buy the genuine articles. This is particularly surprising considering the number of “copy” Rolex watches that seem to be available.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 6
No Flash/Animation Off Function
Flash animation can look good and be useful for branding. Even so, it is important to give the user the option to skip the video and proceed to the main pages/links that they are looking for. On many of the Rolex pages, there are flash/commercials. Unfortunately, many of these pages offer no skip feature. This means the user has to sit through the entire clip before actually accessing the page itself. This is time consuming and could cause people to abandon the site due to frustration, especially if they are a return visitor.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 7
Duplicate Navigation and Screen Resolution
The main navigation offers the option to visit the ‘Ambassadors’ page. Unfortunately, the same link is offered again at the bottom of the homepage with an accompanying image link which rotates each of the ‘Ambassadors’. This is a waste of valuable homepage real estate which could be used for other things. Secondly, duplicate navigation which leads to the same page is irritating to users. On the technical side, the pages are designed for large screens. To assume that each potential buyer has a large screen is not wise, especially as many of the clients may be older and their monitors are set at low resolution. If the decision regarding screen resolution was made having thoroughly reviewed the data in the web logs with respect to what screen resolution the vast majority of user have then it would be OK.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 8
Accessibility Issues
All websites should deliver good accessibility for all users. Unfortunately, the Rolex site does not work with a screen reader, thus making it inaccessible to those who are visually challenged.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 9
Indadequate Product Images
For the user, being able to see clear, enlargeable product images from multiple angles is highly important. This showcases the item and allows more detail to be observed and established. On the Rolex site, all product images are side on and cannot be enlarged or rotated. This is particularly important for Rolex as, with their product, the casing, size and detail are of paramount importance to the overall quality and should be showcased more thoroughly.
http://www.rolex.com/en/index.html -- January 3, 2007
Issue 10
Unnecessary Navigational Steps
Navigation should be direct and always lead to the expected page. This ensures that the user experience is timely and seamless. Unfortunately, on many of the Rolex links, such as the one highlighted here, the primary navigation merely leads to another page on which you have to click a subsequent page to reach the original desired destination. Such hurdles should not occur as they detract from the usability of the site and user experience.
