Website Features
These features can enhance the user experience on your site and help you communicate efficiently and effectively.
The following features can enhance the user experience on your site and help you communicate efficiently and effectively.
You may wish to have a photograph appear consistently across all the
pages on your site, just below the top navigation bars. This main, or
"banner," photo is 920 pixels wide; height varies, but averages 200
pixels. The dimensions are more horizontal than those in a typical
print photo, something you should keep in mind when shooting or
selecting photos. are critical to the usability and functionality of
your site. The standard for the University website is left-side
navigation, as shown below:
Main or "Banner" Photographs
Navigation Boxes
facilitate actions you wish visitors to take, such
as "Apply Online" or "Request Information" for a student recruitment
page. Multiple action boxes can be used on a page, but each one should
be relevant to the content on the page. Call to Action boxes appear in
the upper right corner of the page, below the main image (if one is
used). are another effective website tool. They can be used to
highlight a student or faculty member, or to present a case study.
Profiles can include text and a corresponding thumbnail image. Profiles
can generally be positioned wherever other elements (i.e., template and
navigational) permit. are helpful in directing visitors to information outside
of your specific site that is pertinent to the page they are viewing.
To avoid confusion with site navigation, Related Links appear in the
lower right-hand corner of the page.
Call to Action Boxes
Profiles
Related Links
Editorial and Content Consideration for the Web
Fundamental principles of good writing apply on the Web.
In addition, the Web places a premium on brevity and division of text into manageable and "eye-friendly" chunks. Strive for short paragraphs; make liberal use of bullets; provide users with the option of clicking to find further information rather than presenting great detail on an introductory page.
Search engine optimization is another factor to consider. Fundamentally, search engines reward your use of words strongly related to your subject by ranking your site higher in their search results. Therefore, it is to your benefit to use such words liberally — within the boundaries of sound writing. Search engine optimization has numerous special rules, however. Please consult Integrated Marketing & Communications if you have questions.
Building and Maintaining Your Site
A content management system (CMS) allows for standard features to be easily added to sites to provide usability and consistency. The University has chosen Plone as its CMS. If you would like to be trained in Plone use, please contact Integrated Marketing & Communications.
