Frequently Asked Questions

Basics

Do you charge for your services?
No. Web design services are free for WVU colleges and departments.

How do I start the process to get a Web site?
Please follow the steps on the Getting Started page.

How long will it take to get my site online?
This will depend on how quickly we can schedule meetings with you, how fast you enter your content, and the overall size of the site. Generally, the time frame for WVU departments is about 3 months after the initial meeting.

Do you provide photos?
No. We will ask you to provide the majority of the photos. If you do not have photos, you can order some from WVU Photographic Services.

Who will maintain my site once it’s online?
Once you receive the template from our office, you are responsible for maintaining your site (e.g., updating text, photos, calendar, etc.).

Can I have a staff member or student update my site?
Yes. You should not, however, rely only on students to maintain your site. At least one permanent member of your staff must be capable of updating your site. Ideally, multiple staff members should be trained to do site updates. During the design or redesign of your site, we require that a permanent employee of your unit serve as the primary contact.

How soon can I get my site redesigned?
Because there is such demand for Web site designs, we ask that you wait at least two years before we redesign your site.

Can I design my own site?
It’s vital that all official WVU Web pages have a consistent look and feel and comply with certain accessibility standards required of state institutions. For those reasons, we strongly urge you to consult with us before proceeding with your Web project.

Can I have a personal Web site?
Yes, employees and students can use community.wvu.edu for creating personal Web sites. This service is offered by the Office of Information Technology.

Why can’t I hire someone to do my Web site?
It’s vital that all WVU Web pages have a consistent look and feel, and all pages must comply with certain accessibility standards required of state institutions. In the past, we have found that many outside consultants do not create sites fully meeting these requirements. Plus, our services are free from start to finish. Hiring an outside vendor almost always ends up costing more than initially planned.

Web site components

Why do I have to have the WVU logo on my page?
All visitors should be able to easily recognize they are on a WVU site. We also try to keep certain elements consistent throughout all University Web pages to aid in navigation. This is why a standard header is required on all WVU sites.

I need to put a form/survey on my Web site to collect information. How do I do that?
Web Services has created SimpleForms for this purpose. It offers Web-based administration through Web Admin. All data collected through the form is stored in a database for export as an Excel spreadsheet. Request a SimpleForms account

Can I have a photo gallery on my site?
If your site is in slate, WVU’s content management system, you can create a photo gallery. This online video tutorial will help you get started.

Why do I have to list contact information on my site?
Contact information (e-mail address, phone number, address) should be clearly visible on your site so visitors can contact you if they have questions or wish to receive more information about your program.

You may also wish to provide a physical address – not just a PO Box – so visitors can find your location using mapping software, and also to assist those sending packages or overnight deliveries to your office.

Can I add a blog?
Blogs can be added to college and department Web sites that are in slate. Faculty and staff can request a blog by completing a registration form. Before requesting a blog, please familiarize yourself with the Blog Guidelines.

Accounts & Passwords

My password for slate/Web Admin is not working. Can you re-set it?
Web Services cannot re-set your password. Contact the OIT Help Desk at 304-293-4444 or OITHelp@mail.wvu.edu and ask that your MasterID be re-set.

How do I get a SimpleForms account?
Request a SimpleForms account

Can I share my slate or Web Admin account with someone else?
No, each person must request his or her own account. Sharing accounts violates the OIT Electronic Account Standards policy.