Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
- I already have a site, but it is very outdated. Can you help me?
- My ITS group would like to use an ITS Web template. Now what?
- Where can I see examples of the work Web Services has done?
- I’ve made my decision - I want you to design my Web site. Now what do I do?
Process
- What if I am ready to start my project? What should I do next?
- Will I only work with one member of your team throughout the entire process?
- How long does it take to complete a Web site design?
- Does Web Services have a standard development process?
Technology
- What is a Content Management System? Do I need this?
- What is the difference between a “static” and a “dynamic” site?
- Do you offer Search Engine Optimization (SEO) services?
- What is Web analytics? Do I need this?
- Can you include the University’s Google search tool in my site?
Support and Consulting
- Is there a comprehensive list of the services you provide?
- Will you help maintain the site or provide ongoing technical support?
Fees
Getting Started
I already have a site, but it is very outdated. Can you help me?
ITS Web Services can consult with you on a number of areas to help you improve, update or redesign your Web site. If you already have a site, then you know the importance of being able to provide updated content in a timely fashion to your visitors. We offer consultation services for those that want to take the “do-it-yourself” approach, or consultation and redesign services for an attractive, restructured web presence.
My ITS group would like to use an ITS Web template. How should we get started?
ITS Web Services encourages all ITS groups to migrate their current Web content and create any new pages using the proper ITS Web templates. For an overview of the ITS Web templates, please review the template guide. When you’re ready to get started, submit a Remedy ticket to ITS WEBPAGES or ITS.UNC.EDU WEB. Or, fill out the project request form.
Where can I see examples of the work Web Services has done?
Examples of our work can be viewed in our portfolio.
I’ve made my decision - I want you to design my Web site. Now what do I do?
Great! We are glad you chose us! Your next step would be to fill out the project request form. This will get the process started, and one of our staff members will contact you to discuss your project further.
Process
What if I am ready to start my project? What should I do next?
The next step would be to fill out the project request form. Completing this form will help us find out some of the initial information about your project. Once you submit the form, one of our staff members will contact you to discuss your project further.
Will I only work with one member of your team throughout the entire process?
No. ITS Web Services prides itself on being a multi-functional (yet small) Web development group. Each member of our department is involved in your project in some way from the beginning stages to its completion. While your project will have one project leader, each member of Web Services will provide assistance and technical expertise to ensure the best possible design experience for you. Your project leader will meet with you to discuss the details of the project, provide you with updates about the project and work with you to guarantee success through every step of the design process.
How long does it take to complete a Web site design?
The duration of your project depends on its scope and complexity. As a part of the development process, you will be given a planning document detailing all significant milestones, deliverables and the completion date. In addition, we often consult clients on how they can best participate in the process. This may include tips on avoiding the “design by committee” scenario and scope creep as well as best practices to gather content from key stakeholders.
Does Web Services have a standard development process?
Although every project is unique, Web Services follows a core four-phase process:
Technology
What is a Content Management System? Do I need this?
A Content Management System, or CMS, is a software solution used to create and manage the content of a web site. A CMS offers many benefits, including distributed content management, simple content publishing with web forms (”WYSIWYG editor”), reusable content repositories, centralized graphic management, workflow contruls, security, and content archiving.
ITS Web Services currently supports the most current versions of both WordPress and Joomla for CMS purposes. Our staff can install and support these PHP, MySQL database-driven applications, as well create custom templates for your WordPress or Joomla Web site. For more information on either of these CMS applications, go to the WordPress.org website or to the developer centered Joomla.org.
What is the difference between a “static” and a “dynamic” site?
A static Web site is not “database-driven”and is typically coded in standard HTML. The advantage of a static site is that it may be a quicker, cheaper option. In addition, when paired with Adobe Contribute, for example, the site can experience some of the benefits of a CMS.
A dynamic site is database-driven and implements programming technologies. There are many benefits to this approach, such as:
- Allowing Content Management System (CMS) solutions
- Extending site functionality via plug-ins (IE — calendars, file upload tools, RSS feeds)
- Archiving the site easily
- Updating pages without the involvement of a Web Developer
Do you offer Search Engine Optimization (SEO) services?
Yes. We provide all of our clients with information, tips and tools to not only get you started in the SEO process, but also help you take advantage of all the ways you can improve your Web site’s search engine results on an ongoing basis.
ITS Web Services Web Designer Andy Smith presented SEO techniques and tips to the UNC Webmasters group in September 2007. View the presentation to learn more about the benefits of SEO.
What is Web analytics? Do I need this?
According to Wikipedia, Web analytics is the “study of the behavior of website visitors.” Web Analytics can be very useful in determining if your Web site is actually meeting your desired goals and objectives. Web Services can facilitate the implementation of Google Analytics, an excellent analytics option.
Can you include a Google search tool to my site?
Yes. Web Services can include the Google Search Appliance (GSA) tool to your site. You’ll get the same great Google technology as search.unc.edu with the added benefit of results specific to just your site. We can even create a customized “front-end” so that search results are consistent with the look and feel of your site. (See oira.unc.edu).
Support and Consulting
Is there a comprehensive list of the services you provide?
Yes, this information is available on our services list. If you do not see information about a particular service that you are interested in, please do not hesitate to use our contact form to ask us about it.
Will you help maintain the site or provide ongoing technical support?
ITS Web Services may provide technical support and assistance for a predetermined annual fee as noted in a Web Site Design and Maintenance Agreement.
Fees
I would like to create a Web site, but my budget is small. Can Web Services still help me?
Yes. Web Services can work with you to provide you with a level of service that matches your current budget and provide you with the knowledge and resources needed to upgrade your site at a later date if you wish.
What are your prices?
| Design and Development | $75 per hour |
| Project Management and Consulting | $55 per hour |
| Instructional Media Design | $55 per hour |
