University Web site Best Practices
Cornell UniversityThe organization of content on the Cornell Web site is intuitive to users. Like many sites, Cornell sets a context to external users before sending them to a specific Web site. Cornell has a sophisticated look and feel, and the homepage represents Cornell as an active University with news and events. Boston UniversitySimplicity is key on the Boston University site. BU chose to present a flash design and image that clearly represents the University. The categorization and organization of the homepage is extremely intuitive. The first tier of links sets a context for users, and allows access to the department Web site. Georgetown UniversityGeorgetown presents an organized site architecture and homepage. Specifically, the keywords listed under each category on the homepage is a great way to let users know what information they will find in each category. |
StanfordStanford has a visually appealing site index area on the homepage. This allows users direct access to the site they are looking for. The contextual category for secondary navigation is key to the design--it allows users to read pop-up menus that are linked from the primary navigation. Boston CollegeSophistication is clearly represented on the Boston College homepage. BC does a great job showing news, events, and happenings on campus. The information architecture is clear and organized. University of San DiegoThe visual consistency of the USD site is a great help to users. The navigation tabs, representing clearly defined categories of information, remain fixed on the page throughout the site; each tab has extra context provided by a drop-down menu. The dynamic image on the home page, which changes every 5 seconds, offers a range of views and interests for visitors. |
