Contractor Guidelines

• Templates
• Technical Requirements
• What's available on our servers
• Problems

1. Templates for pages outside of Collage

Where to get them:

http://web2.colum.edu/templates.php

What they are / How to use them.

They are two files, containing PHP, which can be included in your scripts, or utilized as per the example here: http://web2.colum.edu/templates.php

There are a few variables which can be set within your page to change the display, such as header graphic, title of page, etc.

2. Technical Requirements:

Must use templates.

Templates must not be modified; work within the two include statements.

Must be accessible

You'll also want to make sure that your site is accessible to the disabled. Use the tips below if you're not sure how to create an accessible website:

QUICK TIPS TO MAKE ACCESSIBLE WEB SITES
For Complete Guidelines & Checklist: www.w3.org/WAI

• Images & animations: Use the alt attribute to describe the function of each visual.
• Image maps: Use the client-side map and text for hotspots.
• Multimedia: Provide captioning and transcripts of audio, and descriptions of video.
• Hypertext links: Use text that makes sense when read out of context. For example, avoid "click here."
• Page organization: Use headings, lists, and consistent structure. Use CSS for layout and style where possible.
• Graphs & charts: Summarize or use the longdesc attribute.
• Scripts, applets, and plug-ins: Provide alternative content in case active features are inaccessible or unsupported.
• Frames: Use the noframes element and meaningful titles.
• Tables: Make line-by-line reading sensible. Summarize.
• Check your work. Validate. Use tools, checklist, and guidelines at http://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG

Further reading on this topic:
http://www.webstyleguide.com/interface/access.html

3. What's available on our servers

Please acquaint yourself with the resources listed on our Web Authoring Resources page.

• PHP
• MySQL with phpMyAdmin web-based administration.
• Forms -> Email handled by Soupermail.
• Remote access
  • SFTP
  • SSH

4. Problems

In the past our visitors have had some difficulties with Flash-based websites and some Javascript -based items (such as drop-down menus). Please consult with the Director of Web Services about these technical issues before using these technologies on the website.

For further information and guidelines on how to use our templates, or if you have any other questions about the website, please contact the Web Development team.