Introduction

Website owners or editors should submit a Change Request to the Digital Operations Group (DOG) when content or functionality changes are needed, or to request a meeting for guidance. Examples of when to submit include:

• URL Changes: Even minor updates to a website URL, for example, due to a rebrand, merger, or restructure, can have significant impacts. The DOG will help assess implications and guide you through the process.
• Integrations: For any third-party tools (e.g. blogs, forms, external platforms), submit a request so we can review how best to integrate them into the Web CMS and ensure accessibility compliance.
• System Assets: Request an upgrade to the latest style templates or access to reusable content components.
• Content consultancy: Get support with information architecture, content planning, and writing for your audiences.
• Accessibility consultancy: If you're unsure whether your content meets accessibility standards, submit a request and we’ll review and advise.

The Process

Step 1: Ensure the appropriate member of staff completes and submits the 'Change Request' form. Please include as much information as possible about the request when submitting the form.

Please note: If you would like some advice or to discuss your requirements before submitting the change request, please log a support ticket via the IT Service Desk.

Step 2: If your change request involves a URL change for an existing website or section, please download the 'Web CMS – URL Change Checklist' below. This resource outlines key requirements and considerations to help staff understand the impact of changing a URL. We recommend reviewing the checklist early in the process to make use of the available guidance, identify any issues, and prepare questions ahead of your meeting with a member of the Web Support Team (WST).

Step 3: The change request submission will be discussed by members of the DOG at the next scheduled meeting. Members will review the submission details and agree a course of action.

Step 4: A member of the DOG will be in contact to advise on the outcome of the submission, or in some circumstances, if more information is required, request a meeting with the member of staff who submitted the request.

Step 5: If the change request is approved, a member of the WST will work with the website owners / editors to discuss the request, the work involved and provide an estimated timeline for implementation. The website owners / editors are responsible for building accessible website content relating to the request whilst ensuring that the assets used are sourced responsibly and appropriate permissions obtained.

Step 6: When the request has been completed and is ready to be published on the live university website, the website owner / editor will agree a go live date with a member of the WST.