BOT gives more on its website

It aims to standardise and modernise information disclosure, and, as one of the top 10 financial websites, make it easy to use.

Blue, the colour of the BOT, is also the main colour on the Web pages. The central bank is focusing on the strength and reliability of its information. The layout has been reorganised and the data rearranged.

There is plenty of economic data and other information on the site for financial experts, businessmen and general readers. Governor Tarisa Watanagase said the website had been revamped three times since it first went online.

"There are many people who access the website so we have to continue its development. Our responsibility is to manage the economy so we have a duty to take care of information disclosure to serve changing situations and users' knowledge," she said.

Some people may find the presentation of information and the quantum of text on the website not too reader-friendly, although many pictures have been included to make it comfortable on the eye.

Users may think the BOT has tried to introduce a market-oriented website although they can still get a feel of the conservative nature of the 68-year-old central bank. In fact, the bank's offices in its modern buildings in Bangkhunprom, and the Devavej Palaces, reflect a mixture of modern and traditional cultures.

The core inflation target of 0-3.5 per cent is presented on the website, with the latest headline and core inflation figures. The policy interest rate and foreign-exchange rates can be viewed on the home page as well. Previously, users had to click through many pages before accessing this important information.

Aside from monetary and foreign-exchange policies, the BOT also has supervision tasks, and there is certainly no mention of any troubled financial institutions on the home page.

However, does the BOT need to provide space to clarify to the public about any rumours concerning commercial banks and other such issues? If it does so, it would become a truly market-oriented and government-oriented website.