Submit a UChicago Website Request to begin the process.
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 advanced sites and custom web development varies based on the size and complexity of the website project.
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 or to submit a Creative Service Request, contact DanStremlau@UChicago.edu.
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.
Submit a UChicago Website Request form to provide details.
This service is free.
It is maintained centrally by IT Services, thereby covering security and platform updates and providing ease of maintenance.
These websites use the Vita platform powered by an ExpressionEngine CMS.
To request a new advanced website or discuss if this is the best website option for particular needs, submit a UChicago Website Request form.
The development cost differs based on the level of customization needed, but the estimated price range to expect is $5,000-$15,000. After initial launch, there is an ongoing monthly maintenance fee for hosting support by ITS.
IT Services manages the Vita platform, and the templates are built to meet UChicago brand standards and security policies.
Advanced websites are hosted in the Vita platform, which is powered by an ExpressionEngine CMS and contains pre-built template web pages based on common requests from previous UChicago website projects. The Vita platform allows for more functionality than the self-service platform, such as the ability to integrate an event calendar.
To confirm that this is the best website option and connect with an approved vendor to create a custom website, submit a UChicago Website Request form.
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.
The cost for custom web development varies by project complexity, with design and development budgets generally exceeding $50,000.
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.
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.
With any website, the owner is responsible for maintaining content.
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 advanced 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.
There are a selection of Hosting options provided by IT Services or approved vendors.
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.
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.
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.
View the best practices for selecting a domain name and complete the domain request form.
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.
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.
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.