Thrings has become the first law firm in Swindon to include an interactive, 3D virtual tour of its office in the town on Google – a move it believes gives it a commercial advantage over its rivals.
Anyone searching for Thrings on Google will see high quality, 360-degree photographs of the firm’s main client-facing areas on the search results page. The panoramic images are also integrated with Google Search, Google My Business, Google Streetview, Google+ and Google Maps. 
Thrings says the images enhance its offering to potential and existing clients by enabling them to explore the Drakes Meadow office ahead of a visit via their smart phone, computer or tablet.
They can gain a better sense of the size, layout and decor of the reception area, 11 meeting rooms and 1,840 sq ft conference room, which has recently hosted events for Swindon Chamber of Commerce, SN Action for Property, Wiltshire Building Design Association and The Law Society.
Confidential and potentially commercially-sensitive information such as computer screens and people’s faces are obscured in the images.
Thrings managing partner Simon Holdsworth said: “We feel that adding a visual element can be a key differentiator for us as it offers greater insight into our business and an opportunity for people to understand more about the personality of the firm.
“We also recognise that many people meet with their lawyer to discuss personal information, making it an emotive experience. For new clients in particular, having the opportunity to see the venue for the meeting in advance may assist them with their preparation, and if necessary, provide them with a sense of calm.”
He said virtual tours had been shown to improve customer engagement by increasing footfall and users’ online and social media presence.
“While these potentially afford the firm further competitive advantage, the introduction of virtual tours also reinforces our values of professionalism, openness and transparency,” he added. 
The firm is introducing virtual tours of its other main UK offices in Bristol, Bath and London. The photography for all four was supplied by Samantha Mignano, director of Bristol-based Beyond Metrix and a certified Google Maps Business View Trusted Photographer.
She has created engaging tours for colleges, hospitals, restaurants and businesses across the UK since 2001.
Samantha said: “Virtual tours are a great way for forward-thinking organisations to engage with clients at an early stage, and enabling clients to see inside the business and encounter the brand before they visit can be an important first step.
“They also provide an opportunity for firms to optimise their Google profile and stand out from the competition when it comes to online search results and social media.”
