Among the countless content problems found on websites, one of the most egregious and commonly cited is duplicate content. Content strategists — not to mention search engine optimization (SEO) professionals — love to hate on duplicate content. As soon as we spot it during a content audit, we quickly bring out our metaphorical red pens. Begone, duplicate content! But why? For those of us on the other end of the table, it’s easy to dismiss … [Read more...]
Planning for Content Beyond the Web
September 19, 2013 by
The following guest post was written by Dave Olsen, a programmer and project manager at West Virginia University. Dave will be speaking at Confab Higher Ed in Atlanta, GA this November. "Get your content ready to go anywhere," says web designer Brad Frost, "because it’s going to go everywhere." For many, responsive web design has become the solution for ensuring that their content is, as Brad noted, “ready to go anywhere.” It’s a simple … [Read more...]
Portal Websites: The Great Content Divide
July 24, 2013 by
In the Star Trek universe, a "portal" is a doorway to another dimension, connecting two points in space-time. In higher ed, a portal is just as fantastic — an internal website intended to better target users, remove content clutter and improve content governance. Voila! Well, maybe. Portal websites aim to meet these goals by dividing content directed at external audiences (such as prospective students, parents and media) and internal … [Read more...]
Improv and Content Strategy
July 18, 2013 by
The following guest post was written by Amanda Costello, Lead Content Strategist at the University of Minnesota, College of Education and Human Development. Collaboration and listening are at the heart of both improv comedy and content strategy. You might have seen improv on stage or on “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” In improv, while it doesn’t hurt to have a mind stuffed with trivia or an ear for a good pun, you must listen to your fellow … [Read more...]
Creating a Student Social Media Army at Ithaca College
April 3, 2013 by
The following guest post was written by Rob Engelsman, multimedia content specialist at Ithaca College. For me, one of the best parts of higher ed is getting to work with students. Involving them in your social media efforts to create authentic content is a huge advantage — just ask Amy Grace Wells from Texas A&M AgriLife Communication. Good authentic content can increase engagement and build community, which is why I try to create as much … [Read more...]