University of Maryland, Baltimore Web Guidelines
Introduction
The Office of Communications and Public Affairs (OCPA) will review and advise on website structure and content for all University administrative websites to ensure the quality and integrity of the University’s communications.
General Requirements
The purpose of this guideline is to establish general requirements for use of University web resources in a manner that maintains the quality, integrity, and identity of all University web content. All University web content presented on the internet will be governed by this guideline.
Administrative Website Purview
OCPA is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining the University’s website structure and content. OCPA manages the CMS and establishes governance mechanisms for use of University web resources. It provides web-publishing standards for editorial guides, visual style guides, and visual identity principles.
Standards and Guidelines
Faculty, staff, students, and affiliates developing and presenting University web content will abide by OCPA’s standards designed to assure the aforementioned quality, integrity and identity. Periodic content audits will ensure accountability and quality content. All sections of the website should be built using existing content type elements and should not create their own widgets or use custom colors outside of the approved brand colors.
Additionally, all web applications and databases presented on the website will adhere to the University standards and guides referenced in this guideline and will be managed by the Center for Information Technology Services Web Development Group.
Content Management System (CMS)
OCPA, in a collaborative effort with the Center for Information Technology Services Web Development Group, supports University web needs through T4 Site Manager content management system.
Website Branding
Content that is linked from the University’s website to another entity or organization’s website should clearly identify it as a departure from UMB webpages.
Web content from outside the University should not use or replicate the University’s templates or identity in a manner that confuses content ownership. When appropriate, these sites should carry the UMB logo and/or branding.
If you have questions about proper logo or name usage, please contact branding@umaryland.edu.
Responsive Design
OCPA uses responsive design templates to enhance user engagement with UMB websites and to enhance user satisfaction.
Contact Information
For questions about this guideline, contact the communications web team.
