Effective web content doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of following good content strategy principles, which requires thoughtful planning, collaboration, and ongoing maintenance. A strong web content strategy is essential for delivering clear, accessible, and user-focused information. It starts with understanding your audiences (e.g., students, faculty, staff, alumni, the public) and communicating with purpose. This means writing clearly, structuring content logically, and ensuring accessibility for all users.
A good content strategy also includes content maintenance. Outdated or inaccurate content can cause issues and lead to confusion. Therefore, it's important to regularly review your web content to stay accurate, relevant, and aligned with both your goals and the University's goals. Maintaining web content is a shared responsibility and one that must not be neglected.
Regardless of the content management system (CMS) used for your website, these principles should be applied across all University websites. This is part of the broader University Web Governance, which defines roles, responsibilities, and standards for all web content at Appalachian State University. Through collaboration and a strong web content strategy, you help ensure that our websites reflect the excellence and integrity of App State.
If you have questions about content strategy or would like help applying these practices to your site, please contact your Site Manager or reach out to the UCOMM Web Team directly at webmaster@appstate.edu.