Ohio Admin. Code 3337-31-06
This policy is intended to clarify the nature of web content management system (CMS) usage, including the creation of content on the ohio.edu website and the responsibilities of users with access to manage content on the web CMS, as well as outline the services provided by university communications and marketing relating to the web CMS. Additionally, this policy strives to outline the conditions under which such services are provided.
The Ohio university website (ohio.edu and its connected and affiliated properties and subdomains) is a strategic tool and the primary location for stakeholders, including prospective students and their influencers, alumni, university community, and industry partners, to find information about university offerings and activities.
This service is not available for course materials, personal use such as a personal portfolio of work, or a personal website. This service is not available to student organizations, as outlined on the website service level agreement. Preconfigured access levels are assigned on an individual basis within the web CMS.
User experience with the website affects the university's perception in the public marketplace and internally. Incorrect information or difficulty finding information can have a negative impact on the university and overall enrollment. It is essential that information delivered on and by the Ohio university website tells a cohesive and authentic story that is accurate and upholds a good user experience in web design and functionality, and legal standards in accessibility and information security.
To meet this objective, university communications and marketing oversees all web design and development, as well as content governance, in partnership with communicators across the university. The office of information technology ensures maintenance and successful performance of the hosting and server technology that supports the website.
University communications and marketing's web team works with units requesting new websites or pages, website redesigns, site restructuring, creating strategies and space for new programs, and more. Support includes:
Web CMS websites must be sponsored by a faculty or staff member, and that person agrees to take responsibility for the content of that website. View details on web CMS user roles.
Branded templates provided by UCM must be used for all Ohio university websites on the ohio.edu domain built in the web CMS. The branded template options provide instant identification as an "OHIO" website, incorporating the correct use of the Ohio university logo and official colors, and includes standardized menu designs, as well as footers with required links and legal content. Use of these templates under one content management system enhances search capabilities across all university sites and supports usability by providing consistent, simplified navigation. Website content created by web CMS users within the departments/units must adhere to identification standards as outlined in the "OHIO" brand.
Website content must meet accessibility standards in section 508 and web content accessibility guidelines at the level determined by OIT. These standards are part of the web accessibility Initiative (WAI), a working group of the world wide web consortium.
For questions or concerns regarding the use of the web content management system, please contact university communications and marketing.
This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated as necessary to ensure its relevance and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the most recent version of the policy.
By using web CMS, users acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to comply with this policy.
Ohio Admin. Code 3337-31-06
Promulgated Under: 111.15
Statutory Authority: 3337.01
Rule Amplifies: 3337.01