In the digital age, a university’s website serves as the virtual front door to its campus. Prospective students, current enrollees, faculty, alumni, and the general public rely on these online platforms to access information, engage with the institution, and stay connected. As the expectations of website visitors continue to evolve, higher education institutions must prioritize website redesign to remain relevant and effective. In this blog, we will explore the best practices for website redesign in higher education.
Define Clear Objectives:
Before embarking on a website redesign, it’s essential to define clear objectives. Identify the primary goals of the redesign, such as improving user experience, increasing enrollment, enhancing alumni engagement, or communicating the institution’s mission. Clearly articulated objectives will guide your redesign efforts.
User-Centered Design:
User experience (UX) is paramount. The website should be intuitive, responsive, and accessible. Mobile-friendliness is essential, as many users access websites via smartphones and tablets. Conduct user surveys, usability testing, and gather feedback to inform the redesign process.
Content Strategy:
An effective content strategy is a cornerstone of website redesign. Audit existing content and determine what should be updated, removed, or added. Ensure that the content is engaging, informative, and aligned with the institution’s goals. Content should be concise, scannable, and easy to understand.
Consistent Branding:
Maintain a consistent and recognizable brand identity throughout the website. Use the institution’s logo, colors, and typography consistently. Branding elements should reflect the school’s values and heritage.
Accessibility Compliance:
Website accessibility is not just a best practice; it’s a legal requirement. Ensure your redesigned website complies with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) to make it accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes providing alt text for images, ensuring keyboard navigation, and captioning multimedia content.
Streamlined Navigation:
Simplify website navigation. Use clear, concise menu labels and limit the number of menu items to avoid overwhelming users. Implement logical information architecture to make it easier for visitors to find what they’re looking for.
Multimedia Integration:
Leverage multimedia elements to enhance engagement. Incorporate high-quality images, videos, and interactive features that align with your objectives and resonate with your audience.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO):
Optimize your website for search engines. Use relevant keywords, meta tags, and structured data to improve your site’s visibility on search engine results pages (SERPs). Regularly update content to stay current and improve search rankings.
Mobile-First Design:
Given the prevalence of mobile device usage, design your website with a mobile-first approach. Ensure that the website is responsive and offers an excellent user experience on various screen sizes.
Data-Driven Decisions:
Use analytics tools to track user behavior on your website. Gather data on page views, click-through rates, bounce rates, and conversion rates. Analyze this data to make informed decisions and refine your website’s performance.
Content Management System (CMS):
Select a robust content management system that allows for easy content updates and maintenance. Popular CMS options for higher education institutions include WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla.
Integration with Third-Party Tools:
Integrate the website with essential third-party tools such as student portals, learning management systems (LMS), and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Seamless integration enhances the user experience.
Security and Data Privacy:
Prioritize website security to protect sensitive information. Implement SSL certificates for secure data transmission and regularly update security measures to prevent vulnerabilities.
Test and Iterate:
Conduct thorough testing of the redesigned website before and after launch. Test on various devices and browsers to ensure compatibility. Continuously gather user feedback and use it to make iterative improvements.
Training and Support:
Provide training to staff members responsible for updating and maintaining the website. Ensure they have the skills and knowledge to manage content effectively.
Launch and Promotion:
Plan a successful website launch, including a comprehensive promotion strategy. Inform your target audience about the redesigned website through email campaigns, social media, and other marketing efforts.
A well-executed website redesign in higher education can significantly impact an institution’s ability to engage with its audience, attract new students, and build a strong online presence. By following these best practices, universities and colleges can create a user-friendly, accessible, and compelling digital presence that aligns with their goals and values. A thoughtfully designed and effectively managed website is an essential tool for success in the modern higher education landscape.
Sanmita is an award-winning strategy, design and technology firm with over 15 years’ experience in working with higher education. Check out our projects, great testimonials from major universities, and our exceptional leadership team.