A website out-duels architecture, fashion, furniture, graphics, product and transport. Deyan Sudjic, Director of Design Museum said: ‘GOV.UK is a remarkable success on so many levels. It makes life better for millions of people coping with the everyday chores, from getting a new passport, to paying their taxes. It’s a reflection of the government understanding how to communicate with the country in a way that works, it’s simple, direct, well mannered, all the things that we would like to take for granted from the government, but in a sea of red tape and jargon, usually can’t. GOV.UK looks elegant, and subtly British thanks to a revised version of a classic typeface, designed by Margaret Calvert back in the 1960s. It is the Paul Smith of websites. The rest of the world is deeply impressed, and because it has rationalized multiple official websites, it saves the taxpayer millions, what’s not to like?’

The award was presented to Mike Bracken, Executive Director of GDS, Ben Terrett Head of Design at GDS (Government Digital Service) and Nick Hurd Minister for Civil Society at an awards reception held at Angler, South Place Hotel, London. The jury unanimously agreed that GOV.UK was the overall winner for Design of the Year 2013 for its well thought out yet understated design, making the user experience faster and easier. The website is regarded as one of the leading government websites in the world.

The Rt Hon David Cameron MP, Prime Minister and Conservative Party Leader said: ‘I am delighted that the GOV.UK website has won the Design of the Year Award 2013. This government is committed to being the most transparent in the world. For the first time, people can find out what’s happening inside government, all in one place, and in a clear and consistent format. It is just another example of Britain’s world class design talent standing out on the global stage; in this case helping to enhance the modern relationship between the public and government.’ [ designs of the year 2103 ] [ designs of the year 2013: shortlist ]　

<a href="about phil patton