SIU Web Templates

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Last Updated: Nov 14, 2024, 08:39 AM

These standards are designed to help our campus community and vendors create websites that reflect our university’s values, maintain a consistent look, and deliver an excellent user experience for external and internal audiences.SIU Website Example

  1. Consistent Visual Identity
    To maintain a cohesive university brand across all our web properties, websites must adhere to the following visual identity guidelines:
    • Use approved color palettes, logos, and fonts.
    • Ensure all graphics align with the university’s branding standards.
    • Follow established layouts and templates to ensure a consistent look and feel.
  2. Organized and User-Friendly Content
    Our websites should provide an intuitive experience with clearly organized content:
    • Structure information logically, keeping navigation straightforward and intuitive.
    • Use headings, subheadings, and bulleted lists to help users easily find the information they need.
    • Keep content concise, informative, and written in an inclusive, accessible tone suitable for a diverse audience.
  3. Accessibility for All Users
    Accessibility is a core value. We want everyone to have equal access to information on our website, regardless of ability. Please follow these accessibility standards:
    • Adhere to WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines.
    • Use descriptive alt text for images and provide captions for videos.
    • Ensure keyboard navigation works for all website features, and use accessible color contrasts.
  4. End-User Focus
    Every page of the website should be designed with our end users in mind:
    • Prioritize the needs of students, staff, faculty, alumni, and visitors in all content.
    • Regularly test your website to ensure it’s easy to use and understand.
    • Provide contact information or clear calls to action where users can get further assistance or take the next step.
  5. Best Practices for Vendors
    For external vendors supporting our website development:
    • Familiarize yourself with our brand guidelines to ensure consistent implementation.
    • Collaborate with our internal teams for regular reviews and to uphold our content and design standards.
    • Maintain a focus on performance and ensure the website loads quickly and runs efficiently.
  6. Regular Updates and Maintenance
    • Regularly review and update content to keep it current and accurate.
    • Test pages on various devices to ensure a responsive, mobile-friendly experience.
    • Check for broken links or outdated content, and fix them promptly.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure that all university websites contribute positively to our brand, support our mission, and provide a user experience that is welcoming and accessible to all.