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UChicago Website Resource Center

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How do I get started with a new website?

Submit a UChicago Website Request to begin the process.

How much does a website cost?

There are a number of options to choose from at all budget levels. The self-service option is free to use, while the cost for campus-supported sites and custom web development varies based on the size and complexity of the website project.

Can I put a logo on the website?

Currently, individual logos can be put on websites as long as they are in alignment with the UChicago Identity Guidelines, If a custom logo is needed, UChicago Creative can help develop one. For more information, please submit a Creative Service Request.

How can I upgrade an existing website?

The content of the website can be moved to a new platform, or a completely new website can be designed. Submit a UChicago Website Request form to provide details.

How do I get a self-service website?

Submit a UChicago Website Request form to provide details.

How much does a self-service website cost?

This service is free.

Who manages the self-service platform?

It is maintained centrally by IT Services, thereby covering security and platform updates and providing ease of maintenance.

What is the process for UChicago Medicine faculty and staff to obtain a website?

UCM faculty and staff should begin by contacting UCM IT Services to begin the website request process.

What CMS do campus-supported websites use?

These websites use the Voices platform powered by WordPress CMS.

IT Services continues to support existing ExpressionEngine sites. For support, please open a Web Services ticket.

How do I get a campus-supported website?

To request a new campus-supported website or discuss if this is the best website option for particular needs, submit a UChicago Website Request form.

How much does a campus-supported website cost?

The development cost differs based on the level of customization needed, but the estimated price range to expect is $5,000-$25,000.

Who manages the Vita (ExpressionEngine) platform?

IT Services manages the Vita platform, and the templates are built to meet UChicago brand standards and security policies.

While Vita websites remain supported by University ITS, we are not taking any new requests for Vita at this time.

How does a campus-supported website differ from a self-service website?

Campus-supported websites are hosted in the Voices platform, which is powered by a WordPress CMS and contains pre-built template web pages based on common requests from previous UChicago website projects.

How do I get a custom Website?

To confirm that this is the best website option and connect with an approved vendor that will best suit your needs to create a custom website, submit a UChicago Website Request form.

What vendors can I use to build a custom website?

The University has established a set of preferred, preapproved website vendors that can quickly be engaged for campus website projects. For assistance with selecting the best preapproved vendor for your project, submit a UChicago Website Request form.

How much does a custom website cost?

The cost for custom web development varies by project complexity, with design and development budgets generally exceeding $50,000.

What is website maintenance?

Website maintenance is a process of ongoing monitoring of your website for issues or risks, and performing work to keep your website healthy, secure, and up-to-date including regular and urgent platform software and security updates.

Why does a website need maintenance?

Website platforms, including open source content management systems such as Drupal, WordPress, and ExpressionEngine, regularly release software updates and security patches to address new security vulnerabilities. Understanding who is responsible for staying on top of your website's security and installing said updates is essential. Websites that don't receive regular maintenance can be an easy target for hackers. Additionally, websites may become broken when the software they run is out-of-date and not compatible with the requirements of the hosting environment.

Who will maintain the content of my website?

With any website, the owner is responsible for maintaining content.

Who provides technical maintenance for my website?

The technical management of custom websites varies, but it is recommended to work closely with the custom web development vendor to ensure the site is being maintained according to UChicago policies and standards. Self-service and campus-supported websites are managed and hosted by IT Services; custom websites are typically managed by the web development vendor. ITS does not assume responsibility for content—the authors of web pages are responsible for the content of their pages.

Who can ensure my website is digitally accessible?

All University websites must be built to ensure technical compliance with the Digital Accessibility Policy and Digital Accessibility Standards. Site owners have primary responsibility for ensuring the ongoing accessibility of their websites, including but not limited to providing media alt text, headings, and more.

The Center for Digital Accessibility is available for individual consultations and digital accessibility training and resources. Site owners should also work with the CDA to set up Siteimprove, our digital accessibility enterprise tool, for their websites. Siteimprove is an easy-to-use platform that identifies accessibility issues via automation and provides suggestions for remediation.

Are there different options for hosting? What are they?

There are a selection of Hosting options provided by IT Services or approved vendors. 

How do I find out what the best hosting option is for a website?

IT Services (ITS) can help determine the best option. ITS offers web hosting options for static and dynamic websites, as well as consultation services. They work with approved third-party hosting providers and web developers to find the right fit for particular website needs.

If I’m working with a developer, who is responsible for providing the necessary ongoing maintenance and support?

After the website is built, ensure with the developer that arrangements have been made to provide ongoing maintenance and support, especially for addressing security vulnerabilities and patching of the CMS as required. Hosting or developing a website with an external third party does not absolve UChicago website owners of the responsibility to keep the website updated.

Can a custom domain name be pointed to a self-service Voices website?

Web Services can provide a custom uchicago.edu address—or domain map—for a limited number of websites. Websites must however be approved for domain mapping. For websites that are not approved for domain mapping, Web Services can provide redirects. Request a domain redirect or domain mapping for your self-service website.

How do I get a uchicago.edu domain?

View the best practices for selecting a domain name and complete the domain request form.

What is the difference between web hosting and domains?

Web hosting and domain hosting, though closely related, are two different services. Web hosts allow users to create and store content—like a website—on Internet servers. Domain hosts provide domain names, which help visitors access website content. If web content is thought of as a store, a web host provides the physical space products are displayed—in this case, the text, images, videos, and other content that make up the site. A domain host provides a domain name (such as www.yourdomain.com) that visitors can use to find the site; it is like a street address that directs people to the website's location.

Why do websites need to be registered in the Website Registry?

The University website registry is critical to ensure a secure environment, and protect from vulnerabilities and cyber attacks. ITS can also update on critical upgrades to make sure the website is secure and protected.

How do I register a website with the UChicago Website Registry?

Every site on the uchicago.edu domain is required to be registered; this can be done by registering online. Registering a website ensures ITS has the appropriate contact information specific to the site to effectively help maintain it, and enables contact with website owners about critical software and security upgrades that directly affect the site’s integrity and security. Ensuring a secure environment protects both the University and the website.

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