White Pages® News

Compact White Pages book FAQs

September 27, 2011

Image: 

Why have you split the Brisbane White Pages® Book?

We have spilt the Brisbane White Pages® into separate Business/Government and Residential volumes to better meet the needs of our users by giving them the flexibility to tailor their print experience.  This means that they only have to pick up the volume that is relevant to their search need.  It also means that people can elect to receive one or either volume if they choose to tailor their annual distribution entitlement.

Why is the format of the White Pages® print directory different this year?

Over the years, our users have told us that White Pages® books are too big and cumbersome. This is of particular concern as the population ages, so we have responded to this by creating a book that is more compact, more convenient and lighter to handle. We believe the new format White Pages® balances the need to make the book more user-friendly while retaining the same comprehensive content.

What font is being used in the White Pages®?

The font in the new compact-sized print directory is Bell Centennial. It is a font used by other directory companies around the world and it has been selected specifically for its clarity in a compact format White Pages®.

Why has this font been chosen?

The font has been designed specifically for White Pages® because the shape of the letters and numbers are sharper, providing greater clarity than the old typeface. Through consumer testing of a number of different fonts, we know that Bell Centennial provides the best user experience.

Who did Sensis consult with when it decided to introduce the format changes?

Prior to introducing this new format, Sensis consulted with a number of stakeholders over a long period of time including our consumers and advertisers, the Federal Government, the Council on the Ageing, Vision Australia and the Australian Consumer Communications Action Network.

Did Sensis test the new format?

The introduction of the new format White Pages® was the culmination of more than 12 months of research. This included testing with a variety of users from a number of different age groups, including people who are elderly or require glasses to read.  Sensis also distributed a limited volume of compact directories to selected suburbs in Sydney in July 2010.  The results from these tests and trials confirmed that this format was the most appropriate for the White Pages® print directory.

What are the other changes Sensis has made to the White Pages®?

Sensis has introduced a number of layout improvements to the White Pages® that will help people search for information. Apart from the new font, for the first time we have inserted spaces between the street number, name and suburb in the address line. We have also redesigned the navigational cues at the top of the page to make it easier to find the page you need.

Why are magnifying aids being provided?

Sensis has worked closely with Vision Australia to ensure White Pages® content is accessible to all Australians. Together, we have developed an Accessibility Guide which details the different ways White Pages® content can be accessed by people who are visually impaired or who have low vision. As a part of these plans, we have extended an existing Telstra program to offer magnifying aids to people who require further support when they use the White Pages® print directory. 

How can I get a magnifying aid?

Anyone can order a magnifying aid free of charge by calling 1800 625 944, Monday-Friday 8am-8pm eastern standard time or sending your name and address (including state and postcode) to email@sensis.com.au.  Please allow 4-5 weeks from the time you order to receive your magnifier.

Will these changes be introduced to other Sensis print directories in other markets?

Compact-sized White Pages® print directories have been distributed in Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane and they will also be distributed in Perth and Melbourne.

I don’t want a print directory delivered, how can I stop them from being delivered?

Everyone has a choice. If you would prefer not to have the print directories delivered you can cancel delivery by ringing 1800 008 292 or by visiting www.directoryselect.com.au