Why a CMS?
BENEFITS FOR SITE ADMINISTRATORS/CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS
Software & Support- No desktop software to learn
- Interface optimized for non-technical users
- Broad access to technical support
- Multiple support persons
- Toubleshooters will have instant access to files from remote locations
- Identifiable tasks allow for creation of online help and self-paced tutorials
Workflow
- Built-in workflow management and approval processes
- Notification of outdated pages and links
- Web interface allows for remote site updates
Functionality
- University template structure provides ability to pre-populate pages and automate processes to incorporate content from University data sources
- Access to tools such as broadcast e-mail and simple forms
- Separates content from presentation:
- Allows quick changes in graphic identity and layout
- Content may be reused across multiple sites
- Saves staff time by shifting focus from design to content
- Content may be formatted for other devices and services (PDA, tablet PC’s, cell phones, RSS feeds, etc.)
BENEFITS FOR THE UNIVERSITY
Standards & Accessibility- Ability to meet accessibility standards across all University sites
- Creates better user experience through consistent navigation structure, uniform layout, etc
- Ensures compatibility with multiple browsers
- Encourages a consistent graphic identity for W&L
Functionality
- Separates content from presentation:
- Allows quick changes in graphic identity and layout
- Content may be reused across multiple sites
- Saves staff time by shifting focus from design to content
- Content may be formatted for other devices and services (PDA, tablet PC’s, cell phones, RSS feeds, etc.)
- Database makes most current data available and allows single update for data used on multiple pages.
Consistent Graphic Identity
- Better user experience through ease of navigability – visitors can find info easily through consistent placement of critical elements such as navigation
- Consistent design allows visitors to focus on content rather than question location within the site or how to navigate through it
- Good, consistent design reflects positively on the University and reinforces University’s graphic identity. Allows for visual integration with other communications vehicles
- Encourages implementation of industry best practices across University sites
- Fonts, colors and graphics optimized for easy viewing and printing
Support
- No software to install or maintain on individual machines
- Broad technical support
- Multiple support persons
- Toubleshooters will have instant access to files from remote locations
- Identifiable tasks allow for creation of online help and self-paced tutorials
- Scheduled, open training sessions