This policy document was created by University Relations to improve the quality of the University’s web presence by establishing consistent standards for University sites that represent the University to external audiences. These standards relate to usability, navigation, and the correct use of the University’s established graphic identity system (logo and wordmark).

The standards are based on the premise that visitors to virtually any public portion of the University web space should be able to: 1) identify each page as an official representation of the University; 2) identify the relative location of each page within the large and complex University structure; and 3) extend their interaction with the University beyond the web through e-mail, phone, and in-person contacts. In addition, applying the identity system established for print materials into the University web space further supports the University’s goal to enhance the University’s image by making it clear that many excellent departments, colleges, schools, and programs make up The University of Iowa.

This standards document was developed by University Relations staff members Josh Kaine, Charlie Drum, Lesanne Fliehler, and Ann Freerks, with input from other University staff and faculty.

This standards document has been approved by President Skorton, and is effective June 1, 2003.

Short-Term and Long-Term Standards
Special attention has been paid to the cost and effort required to implement many of the standards outlined in this document. Web development on campus is, as a rule, an under funded and grassroots effort, often relying on the work of secretaries and student employees. In fact, many sites on campus have been created by individuals no longer at the University, and the barebones maintenance of these sites has been left to individuals with limited training and experience. To give smaller sites with fewer resources more time to comply with the new standards, the standards have been split into short- and long-term sets.

The short-term standards outlined below are the minimum changes needed to bring the University’s public web space in line with the new graphic identity system. These standards are designed to be easily implemented and to not require major changes in site design or organization.

Short-term standards are to be implemented within six months of the approval of this policy (by January 1, 2004).

The long-term standards ask for significant changes in site design and site structure. Specifically, the standards ask for changes in the use of the University wordmark that for most sites on campus will require an overhaul of the visual design.

Long-term standards are to be implemented with the next redesign of the site or within 18 months following the approval of this policy (by January 1, 2005), whichever comes first.