UT Tyler Web Publishing Standards

Template Requirements and Guidelines

Standards

Use of university templates within the OmniUpdate CMS helps the university unify visual standards and control accurate link architecture for online communication. All departments agree to follow these UT Tyler style and template guidelines.

• Creation of a SEPARATE template using the UT Tyler template, code, graphics, header, footer or any other part of the UT Tyler website template outside the CMS (including within a portal) is not permitted. 
• The template-based navigation system is to be used by all sites within the CMS. Through consistent placement of navigation and page structure, users will become familiar with the university’s Web pages, increasing ease of use.
• Web publishers are required to continue following these Web publishing guidelines, the UT Tyler brand identity and the OU Campus template style guide.

Responsibility

• Departments are responsible for keeping backups off ALL files such as PDF, Word, JPG, etc. 
• All (X)HTML code must pass validation (error pass required, not warning pass) at http://validator.w3.org/.
• Adding "Coming Soon", "Under Construction" or similar type messages are not allowed.
• Copyrighted material is prohibited unless written notification has been given from the copyright holder.
• Pages launched without page content are not allowed.
• 302 redirects should be used on all top-level pages no longer available on the UT Tyler website.

Portal Templates

• Websites representing UT Tyler on outside sites such as portals must follow the Web portal guidelines and the UT Tyler brand identity.

Sub Domain

• Sub domains are set up only in special circumstances. Sub domains are taken into consideration depending on needs, and approved by Marketing and Communications.

Code Structure

The UT Tyler templates have been designed to address UT Tyler's visual brand and remain consistent to ensure clarity of identity while some elements allow for flexibility. The following principals have been applied:

• Clear UT Tyler brand identity.
• Positive experience for the user.
• Clear communication, navigation and usability.
• Consistent page structure.
• Flexible elements to portray departments, colleges, etc.
• Accessibility and usability.
• Work across a wide variety of browsers and platforms.
• Search Engine Optimization.
• Editing HTML/CSS within the code is not permitted.

Template Structure and Implementation Guide

Online training for OU Campus users will step users through use of the UT Tyler template. For additional assistance, email web@uttyler.edu.

It must be emphasized that in using the UT Tyler templates you are publishing information that represents both UT Tyler, your department, projects, faculty, etc. It is important that as an official university publisher you do not change any element that has been deemed constant.

• Please avoid incorrect image sizes and unapproved buttons. All pages should contain appropriate content and follow accessibility/usability guidelines.

Also see:

• UT Tyler Brand Identity
• Template Style Guide
• OU Campus Online Training
• Best Practices