Summary

As part of our efforts to extend our reach through improved communication, the Tarleton website will be undergoing some major changes during the months ahead.  Ms. Daphne Hunt, our University Web Administrator, will be leading the web services team in several endeavors concerning our website, including:

• a redesign of the University’s homepage and immediate subpages,
• implementation of a common template throughout the University’s department and organization pages,
• implementation of a web content management system (CMS)
• URL restructure in order to remove the "~" in web addresses

Please see our Website Conversion Queue for information about when your department may be converted (timeline is highly tentative).

FAQ

Table of Contents

1. What is a web content management system?
2. How will the installation of this system affect me?
3. What does it mean that a "common template" will be implemented throughout the website?
4. Does this mean my department/organization will loose its individual identity?
5. Why are you redesigning the homepage and immediate subpages?
6. I currently use Dreamweaver to update my website. Why couldn't I continue to use Dreamweaver instead of using the new system?
7. Will I receive training on how to update my website after it has been implemented with the CMS?
8. Why is the entire website undergoing this major change to a common template/CMS implementation?
9. How can I find a student account/email? There used to be an online directory on the homepage.

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1. What is a web content management system? top

A web content management system (CMS) is a tool to help manage the content, stucture, look and feel of a website. Tarleton has installed Cascade Server by Hannon Hill. If you are interested in finding out more about this particular product, visit their website.

2. How will the installation of this system affect me? top

All department and organization websites will be implemented into the CMS according to the Website Conversion Queue. Faculty websites will be converted in a later phase. If you have involvement with your department or organization website, you can expect us to contact you for assistance when we begin converting your website.

One benefit of this system will be an easier way for departments/organizations to keep their websites up-to-date. The system provides an editing tool that will replace Dreamweaver, Contribute, and any other tools currently being used. You will be able to use the system from any computer, even from home.

3. What does it mean that a "common template" will be implemented throughout the website? top

It is important that the Tarleton website structure is built so that information is easy to locate. A common template will create a standard for information placement, as well as a common look and feel throughout the entire website. The "shell" of the web pages (background, footer, header, navigation location) will be essentially the same.

4. Does this mean my department/organization will loose its individual identity? top

No. Although many elements on the template will be standardized, there will still be room for individuality. Through use of logos and photos, you will still be able to express creativity and have some elements that are different from other departments/organizations.

5. Why are you redesigning the homepage and immediate subpages? top

In order to stay current with the needs of students and to maximize recruiting, a redesign is necessary. The new homepage/subpages will be much more modern and dynamic, and will provide better information to our prospective students.

6. I currently use Dreamweaver to update my website. Why couldn't I continue to use Dreamweaver instead of using the new system? top

There are many benefits to using the new editing tool, and we are confident that you will become comfortable using it. Not to mention, it will be free for all departments and organizations, so no more costly purchases/upgrades for web development software. You will also be able to update your website from any computer, on or off campus. Please keep in mind that you will continue to use the tool you use now until we implement your particular website to the CMS.

7. Will I receive training on how to update my website after it has been implemented with the CMS? top

Of course! Web Services is prepared to give training in private and group sessions. We will discuss training options with your department/organization once we begin work on your particular website.

8. Why is the entire website undergoing this major change to a common template/CMS implementation? top

The decision to move forward with a common template and a CMS was not made without much thought and research from the Web Task Force, Web Advisory Committee, Web Services, and Administration. It is felt that this is the best decision for Tarleton in order to stay competitive with other universities and to provide information in the best way possible.

9. How can I find a student email address? There used to be a student directory on the previous homepage. top

Due to privacy concerns there is no longer an outward facing, publically accessible way to search for student usernames or email addresses. However, faculty and staff are able to access the old student directory search function via the "My Job" channel on their Employee tab within myGateway. Students are able to search for student emails within their new Microsoft Live email accounts.

 Any questions still unanswered? Email Daphne at djhunt@tarleton.edu.