Listening with purpose: Understanding and conducting stakeholder interviews
Interviews. For some, just hearing the word can evoke a sense of dread and concern. The preparation, rehearsing of questions and answers, and the unknowing when you are walking into the interview room. But when it comes to your website redesign, interviews are a different kind of conversation.
Talk to me, not them: The most important factor in your website redesign
When redesigning a website, there are countless factors to juggle — from page layout and content types to calls-to-action and overall goals. But among all these considerations, one stands out above the rest: your audience.
Making your website work: A guide to web content strategy
When you hear the term web content strategy, it might sound a bit vague or even confusing. It sounds important—but what does it actually mean? Web content strategy is more than just writing web pages—it’s about planning, organizing, and maintaining content so it truly serves your users.
How to submit your sitemap to Google Search Console: A step-by-step guide
Submitting a sitemap to Google Search Console can seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. We've crafted a comprehensive step-by-step guide with helpful information you need to navigate this essential aspect of web optimization.
Banner ready: How to tell Iowa’s story without overloading your users
The banner is a fantastic tool—when used correctly, it can amplify the Iowa story like nothing else. With the right combination of visuals, concise messaging, and clear calls to action, the banner becomes a dynamic way to grab attention and engage users. Let’s dive into how you can harness the full power of this component while keeping it visually appealing and effective.
Get your collections in order: A guide to using the component wisely
The collection component is a versatile tool for your SiteNow website. It’s perfect for organizing related content or displaying long-form information in a tidy accordion format. By keeping a few key considerations in mind, you can ensure that your content remains well-structured, accessible, and engaging for all users.
Understanding web accessibility: Key resources for the Iowa web community
Ensuring your content is accessible is vital—not just for legal compliance, but to make sure everyone can engage with it. This guide will help you get started and provide the resources you need.
Understanding region settings: A guide for your Iowa website
As you build and manage your Iowa website, you might find that there are certain messages or calls to action (CTAs) you'd like to display consistently across your site. The easiest way to do this is through region settings—a feature that allows you to add content that stays on all or selected pages of your site.
Creating webforms that connect: Key best practices
Webforms are an effective way to collect information, but a well-designed form improves experience and data accuracy. This article highlights key best practices for creating better webforms with SiteNow v3.
How to share the Iowa story using the article content type on your website
As a website owner, one of your key challenges is sharing timely, relevant information with your audience. But how can you make sure that your content stays fresh and easily accessible? The solution lies in using the Article content type. In this post, we’ll dive into the best practices for using the article content type and point out common mistakes to avoid.
Transform your website: Simple design tips for a great page with SiteNow v3
Building a webpage is an exciting challenge, offering a chance to create something fresh and connect with your audience. Whether starting new or updating an existing page, small design changes can make a big impact. Here are some simple tips to improve your webpage and enhance your website experience.
How to get the most out of using the featured content component
One common need when designing pages is showcasing content from one page on another—whether to highlight important information, promote something, or simply make navigation easier. That’s where the featured content component in SiteNow v3 comes in. In this article, we’ll walk you through what the featured content component is, how it works, and how you can use it to make your website more engaging and user-friendly.
Your guide to managing a website redesign project
Redesigning a website offers an exciting opportunity to refresh your content, improve functionality, and give your online presence a new look. We've put together some key recommendations to help guide you through the journey, stay on track, and create a site that speaks to your target audience.
Mastering website audits: How to conduct them and why they matter for your site’s success
Whether you’re at the beginning of a website redesign, working with a newly launched site, or managing an established one, one thing is certain: all websites require updates at some point. One of the ways to ensure your University of Iowa website stays up-to-date is through a powerful often overlooked technique by many: a content audit.
Letting others share the Iowa story: Harnessing the power of the blockquote component
When creating your Iowa website, you have a wealth of opportunities to share the unique story of your department or unit. One effective way to do this is by incorporating the blockquote component. Today, we will share some best practices and tips for effectively utilizing it on your Iowa website.
Calls-to-action that work: Helping your users take the next step
When developing a website, one of the most crucial elements to consider is the specific actions you want your users to take upon visiting your site. In this article, we’ll explore three key strategies to effectively utilize calls-to-action and ensure your users know exactly what to do next.
Adding events to your website: Key considerations
Adding events to your website is a great way to keep your audience informed about what's happening within your department and across the University of Iowa campus.
Letting users stay in control: Why new browser windows aren’t always a good idea
When we're browsing the web, clicking on buttons or hyperlinks is something we do without thinking twice. But here's a key point to consider: should your links open in a new window?
Improving your website with effective use of top links
When designing your website, it's vital to steer users towards specific actions, and top links play a pivotal role. Here are three essential strategies to enhance their effectiveness.
Setting up Google Analytics: A step-by-step guide
Setting up Google Analytics can seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. We've made it easy with a step-by-step guide.