We're here to help you build the best possible site. Our team offers training to content editors and site owners looking to build more effective websites. Currently, we offer training on web content strategy, Layout Builder, Siteimprove and content hub.
Layout Builder
This training is an introductory session to Layout Builder. Layout Builder is SiteNow's full suite of content editing functions that allow you to build page layouts in a drag-and-drop interface.
Skills you'll gain:
web design page layout content editing
Layout Builder questions
How do I access Layout Builder?
Layout Builder is a feature that comes with your SiteNow v3 site.
I am not familiar with the technical side of websites, can I still use Layout Builder?
Yes! Layout Builder is meant to be used by technical and non-technical users alike. The drag-and-drop interface allows individuals of all levels of expertise to be able to build a professional website for your department or unit.
Who can I contact with more questions?
You can contact the OSC web team at its-web@uiowa.edu.
When is the next training?
There is not currently an upcoming live training session at this time. You can watch a previously recorded training session via our library below.
Web content strategy
This training covers the basics of creating effective content for new and existing websites, including: intuitive navigation menus, content modeling and leading a strategic web project.
Skills you'll gain:
content strategy for web laying out intuitive menus writing for web
Web content strategy
What is web content strategy?
Web content strategy is not something you can click or see. It's an experience on a site that has an intentional, strategic and data-driven approach.
Why is content strategy important for my website?
Having a content strategy for your website is crucial to understanding what your users are looking for on your site and how you can develop your site content to meet their needs. Research from Hanover states that "roughly 80% of students rate a college's website as the most influential resource and one that is used consistently through the college research and admissions process."
Who can I contact with more questions?
You can contact the OSC web team at its-web@uiowa.edu.
When is the next training?
There is not currently an upcoming live training session at this time. You can watch a previously recorded training session via our library below.
Calendar Invite
If you prefer having a calendar invite for an upcoming training, we'd be glad to send you one. Fill out the form and we'll get right on it.
Siteimprove
This training covers the basics of Siteimprove. This is a tool that helps improve the quality, performance, and accessibility of your website(s). Hosted by a Siteimprove vendor partner.
Skills you'll gain:
web accessibility web quality web performance
Siteimprove
Why should I use Siteimprove?
Because you've made an investment in establishing a presence on the web. Without Siteimprove, you are creating experiences that are likely populated with broken links, accessibility issues, typos, and other problems that reflect poorly on your work, your unit, and the brand.
You wouldn't launch a press release or write an article without using spell check, would you? Siteimprove is your quality tool for all your content on the web (and yes, it includes spell check for your web pages).
How do I sign into Siteimprove?
You can sign in to Siteimprove using your HawkID and Password here:
https://my2.siteimprove.com/Auth/Saml2/66356803?v=2
Be aware that any campus user can sign in and our licensing provides for unlimited users. However, new users will need to reach out and ask to be added to the websites they are responsible for.
How do I get my website added to Siteimprove?
All new sites need to be added by the vendor. To get your website added, contact service owners TM Weissenberger (todd-weissenberger@uiowa.edu) or Michael O'Neill (michael-oneill@uiowa.edu).
Once added, the initial scan will take a few days to complete.
How do I add a users to Siteimprove?
New users can be added by many collegiate and unit web leads or by contacting any of the following:
- TM Weissenberger (todd-weissenberger@uiowa.edu)
- Michael O'Neill (michael-oneill@uiowa.edu)
- Megan Yoder (megan-yoder@uiowa.edu)
Who can I contact with more questions?
You can contact Todd Weissenberger or Michael O'Neill.
When is the next training?
There is not currently an upcoming live training session at this time. You can watch a previously recorded training session via our library below.
Content hub
This training covers the basics of content hub. Content hub is the site that feeds the Iowa events calendar at events.uiowa.edu. Content hub lets you input your departmental event to let others in the UI community know about it. This session will walk through the information options, the data entry process, and the approval process for event entries.
Skills you'll gain:
information management data entry approving events
Content Hub
Why should I use content hub to promote my event?
Content hub allows you to put information on the university-wide events calendar. This allows your event to easily be seen by others across campus. Whether your event is an internal meeting or a public performance, a one-off or a recurring series, content hub can help.
Who can I contact with more questions?
You can contact Chris Clair at christopher-clair@uiowa.edu.
When is the next training?
There is not currently an upcoming live training session at this time. You can watch a previously recorded training session via our library below.
Training library
We offer a wide range of recorded training sessions that are tailored to help you master the art of utilizing Layout Builder, web content strategy, Siteimprove and Content hub. Most of our trainings are equipped with closed captions and timestamps, allowing you to navigate directly to specific points in the recording.
To explore our collection of past trainings, please choose a recording from the options provided below. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us.