Western Standard Web Pages

Peter Fewster

 

The Faculty of Social Science began implementing the Western Standard web design in September 2005. Our experience so far has been very positive. Many people have commented on the esthetic appeal of this design. Others who manage their department’s website have praised the design’s structural integrity and ease of content entry. The reasons for using this new design are 3-fold:

  1. Good markup. Western Standard pages are written with XHTML, and use CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) to separate design from content. Web pages are structurally consistent—your audience will know what they are reading about (context) and where to look (navigation). It is easy to change the appearance of a particular design element across all pages.
  2. Accessibility. Web pages are designed to be as accessible as possible for all web enabled devices, such as computer screens and printers.
  3. Branding. Your site will benefit from the Western brand and still have a unique appearance.

Implementing the Design

Social Science Network and Data Services can help you implement the Western Standard design on your website. At an initial meeting, we will assess your unique needs, develop a site map, and plan an implementation strategy.

Editing Western Standard Web Pages

For an overview, see the Help Note Editing Western Standard Web Pages at ssnds.uwo.ca/helpnotes/editingwesternstandard.html.

SSNDS also provides training so you can manage the day to day changes quickly and easily. Please contact Peter Fewster at ext. 85069 to make arrangements.