Department Web Framework
The Department Web Framework began life as the Humanities Web Framework in autumn 2011. Initial direction was shaped by an advisory committee. In autumn 2013 it was adapted for the Arts, and in spring 2013 it became available to the Social Sciences. Interest continues to grow. As of August 2015, we are serving 22 academic departments and have three developers on our team.
Humanities Web Framework Summary
The UW College of Arts & Sciences initiated the Humanities Web Project to develop a system for building and hosting websites that meets the needs of Humanities units. This system reduces the technical burden of maintaining a website and assists departments in complying with university standards for accessibility, graphic identity, and security. It allows departments to offer features that users expect from a modern website and to adapt more easily to emerging trends.
This website outlines specific Goals for the framework and Features that are included to meet these goals. The Humanities Web Specialist developed this list of goals and features based upon extensive research and analysis, including:
- reviews of fourteen existing Humanities department websites
- interviews with administrative staff and faculty from fourteen Humanities units
- an online survey of students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members
- two undergraduate student focus groups
- data from nine Humanities departments who have installed Google Analytics
- feedback from an advisory committee consisting of two faculty, two staff, and three grad students from various Humanities departments
- discussions with the College’s marketing and communications team
- knowledge of best practices and industry standards
We will continue to refine our plans based upon feedback from internal and external audiences.