User Roles and Permissions for WordPress

In accordance to the University web governance, we use a system of user roles to control what different people can do on a website. This helps ensure that users only have access to the tools and content they need. This guide explains the main user roles and permissions used on App State WordPress sites, so you can better understand your access and responsibilities when working on your website. For more information about why we use user roles, please refer to the University Web Governance.

User Roles

Below are the main user roles for our WordPress sites:

• Administrator - Full site access, including site settings, custom post type creation, theming and layouts, and user management.
  • Reserved for UCOMM Web Team members
• Site Manager - Serves as the main point of contact for the site. Can create, edit, and publish all content types, edit the navigation menu and taxonomy terms/categories, and view the list of users with editing access. Approves edits made by Contributors.
  • Only one Site Manager should be assigned per site. A backup may also be assigned.
• Editor - Can create, edit, and publish all content types. Approves edits made by Contributors. Shares accountability with the Site Manager for content accuracy and quality.
• Contributor - Can create and edit (but not publish) all content types. Content changes must be approved and published by an Editor or Site Manager.

Best Practices for Working Within Your Role

• Collaborate: If you need access to something outside of your role, ask your Site Manager for help making the changes on your behalf.
• Writing Content: Avoid using your website for initial drafting of new content. It is better to draft and edit a page's content in a Google or Word doc first, and then copy it onto the site after it's been finalized.
• Ask for help: If you're unsure what you can do, please reach out to your Site Manager.